Boosting Breast Milk Supply, any foods that help?

Question

Are there any foods that are known to help boost breast milk supply? I seen info on fenugreek as a supplement but was looking for some food alternatives that I can incorporate into my diet.

Answer 1

Some moms find that eating oatmeal every day helps them.

Others report a boost in supply after eating tunafish.

Some believe that dark beers can boost supply as well.

Answer 2

I had this same problem going to work, etc. and found that my problem was actually the pump I was using. I had bought a "cheapie" over the counter from the drug store, but when I met with a lactation consultant, looking at the suction per minute, it was way too slow. So it was pumping and I was giving, but the pump just wasn't comparing to the baby's feeding. You might check it out and see what your pump's speed is and you may have to upgrade. The one I ended up buying that worked fantastic was a Medela Travel for $270. It came in a backpack so I could take it pretty much anywhere without people wondering what the heck I had. If the pump is ok, I'd try pumping more as others have also suggested. Good luck and keep it up!

Answer 3

Breastmilk is made from blood. If you eat foods rich in iron, that boosts blood supply, thus milk. Although, the Fenugreek will turn you into a cow!!!! Worked for me within 2 days.

Answer 4

I ate sliced cucumber every day while I was pregnant and for a few months after I had both of my daughters. They contain a lot of water and my OB/GYN said they helped with milk production. I nuresed my first one til she was three and just weaned the second one at 2 years and 8 months. good luck!! Also, make sure the baby is nursing as often as possible, it is all about supply and demand.

Answer 5

Breast milk is a supply and demand if you want to up your supply you will need to increase feeding eat healthy and drink lots of water.

Answer 6

Take care of yourself. Eat plenty of fruits, vegetables and whole grains. Get some exercise every day. Rest as much as you can — and don't be afraid to ask for help when you need it.
Drink plenty of fluids. Water, juice and milk can help you stay hydrated. But limit soda, coffee and other caffeinated drinks. Too much caffeine can reduce your milk supply

Answer 7

Water veggies like lettuce & cucumbers help. So do water fruits like watermelon, honeydew & cantelop. Make sure you drink enough water during the day. Even mild dehydration will lower your milk production. When I was nursing my son, I drank an extra glass of whole milk once a day & kept to the 1% or 2% for regular drinking.

Answer 8

Wheat, Barley and brown rice.
I have breastfed two children. My first for 13months, my second for 8 months. with my second I ran low I took Fenugreek it upset the baby's stomach. I also took mm(mothers milk)another combination didn't work well ether. But what did work was one beer a night. I do not drink so it was hard for me.You dint wont your baby to drink it so wait until the last feeding. After a few hours the alcohol will not affect the milk.(Only organic beer with Wheat and Barley will work)

Answer 9

Apparently a beer a day might help - I'm not sure if it has to be a specific kind or not. Fenugreek can be incorporated into your cooking if you dont want to take the capsules or make tea with it - but apparently it really does work and it might be your best alternative to nursing more often.

Answer 10

I breastfeed my baby currently and you need to drink LOTS of water! Milk is made from water, the more you drink the better your milk supply. Drink at least 8oz of water after each breastfeeding session in addition to your normal 8 cups.