Can mint decrease milk supply?

The Impact of Mint on Milk Supply: A Closer Look
The question of whether mint can decrease milk supply is one that has garnered attention among breastfeeding mothers and healthcare professionals alike. Recent discussions and studies suggest that the answer is nuanced, with peppermint being the primary focus due to its higher menthol content compared to other mint varieties.
Mint Varieties and Their Effects
Research indicates that peppermint, which contains significant amounts of menthol, may indeed have an impact on milk production. A study highlighted in *Natural Product Communications* found that while spearmint lacks measurable menthol, peppermint is rich in this compound, which is believed to influence lactation negatively. Anecdotal evidence from breastfeeding mothers supports this claim, with many reporting a noticeable decrease in milk supply after exposure to peppermint, whether through ingestion or even inhalation.
Moderation is Key
However, the effects of mint on milk supply are not universally agreed upon. Some experts suggest that small amounts of peppermint, such as those found in occasional candies or mild teas, are unlikely to significantly affect milk production. This perspective emphasizes the importance of moderation; excessive consumption of peppermint or mint-flavored products should be avoided to mitigate any potential risks to lactation.
Anecdotal Evidence and Polls
Interestingly, a poll conducted by the Tisserand Institute revealed that while 30% of mothers reported a decrease in milk supply due to peppermint oil, a substantial 70% noted no adverse effects. This disparity highlights the variability in individual responses to mint, suggesting that while some may be sensitive to its effects, others may not experience any change in their milk production.
Conclusion: Individual Responses Matter
In conclusion, while there is evidence to suggest that peppermint can decrease milk supply, particularly in larger quantities, individual responses vary widely. For breastfeeding mothers, it may be prudent to monitor their own reactions to mint and adjust their intake accordingly. As always, consulting with a healthcare provider can provide personalized guidance tailored to individual circumstances.

Will thin mints hurt my milk supply?

That night I noticed I was pumping only about half my normal volume, then I realized that thin mints of course have peppermint in them. Peppermint is known to decrease milk supply and that is exactly what happened. Now I’m into my second night after my cookie binge and my supply is still tanked.

What lowers milk supply?

Other things that can also lead you to have low milk production include:

• Smoking or drinking.
• Some medicines and herbs.
• Hormonal forms of birth control. This is especially true for birth control that has estrogen.
• Nursing or pumping less often.
• Getting sick.
• Feeling stressed.
• Getting pregnant again.

Do soft breasts mean low milk supply?

Your breasts feel softer
This happens as your milk supply adjusts to your baby’s needs. The initial breast fullness reduces in the first few weeks. At around 6 weeks, breast fullness is completely gone and your breasts may feel soft. This is completely normal and has no effect on your milk supply.

Does peppermint cause oversupply breastfeeding?

Herbs shown to help decrease milk supply safely, e.g. sage. Foods helpful with reducing milk supply e.g. peppermints or foods high in peppermint oil. Medical approaches, such as over-the-counter products e.g. cold remedies with pseudoephedrine or prescription medications e.g monitored short use of birth control pills.

Does mint affect breast milk supply?

Peppermint and sage are reputed to decrease milk production when consumed in large or concentrated amounts. Frequent brushing with toothpaste containing real peppermint oil or even eating potent peppermint candies has caused trouble for some mothers.

Why avoid strawberries while breastfeeding?

A quart or more of orange juice or a diet heavy in seasonal fruits such as strawberries, melons or cherries have been associated with diarrhea and colicky symptoms in some infants. Foods containing many preservatives, additives or dyes have been associated with signs of discomfort in some babies.

What foods decrease milk supply?

Top 5 food / drinks to avoid if you have a low milk supply:

• Carbonated beverages.
• Caffeine – coffee, black tea, green tea, etc.
• Excess Vitamin C & Vitamin B –supplements or drinks with excessive vitamin C Or B (Vitamin Water, Powerade, oranges/orange juice and citrus fruits/juice.)

How to tell if breast milk is drying up?

The following are signs your baby isn’t getting enough milk:

1. Poor weight gain. It’s normal for newborns to lose 5% to 7% of their birth weight in the first few days – some lose up to 10%.
2. Insufficient, wet or dirty nappies.
3. Dehydration.

What can suddenly decrease milk production?

Stress is the No. 1 killer of breastmilk supply, especially in the first few weeks after delivery. Between lack of sleep and adjusting to the baby’s schedule, rising levels of certain hormones such as cortisol can dramatically reduce your milk supply.

What will stop my milk supply?

Several factors will affect how long it takes for your milk to dry up, including your baby’s age and how much milk your body is making.

• 7 ways to dry your breast milk supply quickly.
• Cold turkey.
• Herbs.
• Cabbage.
• Birth control.
• Sudafed.
• Vitamin B.
• Other drugs.