With motherhood, a woman takes birth once again. This time as a mother who is about to nurture a little one. A new mother is bound to have tons of questions in her mind regarding her child's health and well being.
As a mother, you would definitely wish the best for your child and hence may be worried as to what kind of food to consume and avoid in order to keep your baby healthy. The foods you eat will not only benefit the baby but will also help you recover post pregnancy.
While stimulation of the nerves in the breast leads to the production of adequate amounts of breastmilk, some foods can make it even better. There are certain foods which can enhance milk production, these foods are also known as galactagogues.
Here is a list of such foods.
Food That Can Improve Breast Milk Production
1) Fennel (Saunf) seeds
Fennel seeds can boost breast milk really well. It has been used for centuries as a galactagogue. Fennel is known to have properties similar to that of estrogen (the female sex hormone) and is used to increase the supply of breast milk.
You can add fennel seeds powder as a spice in gravies. It can also be added to milk and tea.
2) Fenugreek (Methi) seeds
Fenugreek can boost lactation hormones. Fenugreek seeds have been used since ages to increase breast milk production.
It can be added to gravies, soups or can be consumed with a glass of water early morning on empty stomach. It also works in curing postpartum constipation.
3) Carrots
Carrots can increase breast milk supply as they are rich sources of vitamin A. Carrots are a great source of beta carotene which helps improve the quality of the breast milk produced and is also beneficial to the overall health of your little one.
You can add carrot to your salads, soups, upma, idlis, rice, halwa or simply make a glass of juice out of it and consume it with your mid-morning or evening snack.
4) Cumin (Jeera) Seeds
Cumin seeds help stimulate breast milk production when taken in moderation. It can also prevent constipation and bloating.
Being a good source of iron, it can help new moms with postpartum recovery. Add cumin powder to a glass of buttermilk or lemon water or consume it early morning or at bed-time with a glass of warm water.
5) Sesame (Til) Seeds
Sesame seeds are a great source of calcium. Hence, they are beneficial for the production of adequate breast milk. Calcium is also necessary for strengthening the bones and hence can reduce joint pain for new moms who are recovering post-pregnancy.
You can add sesame seeds to salads or blend them with nuts. You can also add them to a glass of milk with honey. Consume this in the morning before breakfast or in the evening.
Breast milk is the optimal food for your baby and it helps you and the baby develop a beautiful bond. Therefore, make sure that you have a balanced diet and get adequate rest during the process of breastfeeding!!
Disclaimer: This article is written by the Practitioner for informational and educational purposes only. The content presented on this page should not be considered as a substitute for medical expertise. Please "DO NOT SELF-MEDICATE" and seek professional help regarding any health conditions or concerns. Practo will not be responsible for any act or omission arising from the interpretation of the content present on this page.