Does eating coconut oil help breast milk production?

The Role of Coconut Oil in Breast Milk Production
Coconut oil has garnered attention for its potential health benefits, particularly among nursing mothers. However, the question of whether it can enhance breast milk production remains contentious and largely unsupported by scientific evidence.
Coconut Oil and Milk Supply: The Evidence
The prevailing consensus among health professionals is that coconut oil does not increase breast milk supply. A review of the literature reveals a lack of scientific studies directly linking coconut oil consumption to an increase in milk production. One source explicitly states, “There are NO scientific studies demonstrating that coconut oil increases milk supply”. This assertion is crucial for mothers seeking to boost their milk production through dietary changes.
Nutritional Benefits of Coconut Oil
While coconut oil may not enhance milk supply, it does have some nutritional benefits that can be beneficial for breastfeeding mothers. Notably, when lactating women consume coconut oil, studies have shown that their breast milk contains higher levels of lauric acid and capric acid, both of which are known for their antimicrobial properties . These fatty acids can help bolster the immune system of infants, providing an additional layer of protection against infections.
Antimicrobial Properties
The antimicrobial properties of coconut oil are particularly noteworthy. When ingested by nursing mothers, these beneficial compounds are transferred into breast milk, potentially enhancing its quality. This transfer can help protect infants from harmful bacteria and viruses, making breast milk not only a source of nutrition but also a shield against illness.
Conclusion: A Balanced Perspective
In summary, while coconut oil may not directly increase breast milk production, it can enrich the nutritional profile of breast milk through the addition of beneficial fatty acids. For nursing mothers, incorporating coconut oil into their diet may enhance the antimicrobial properties of their milk, thereby supporting their baby’s immune health. However, those looking to increase milk supply should consider other methods, as the evidence does not support coconut oil as a solution for this specific concern.

Is it safe to eat coconut while breastfeeding?

The fat in coconut contains many healing properties. Nursing moms can benefit from this healthy fat for increasing their energy, stabilizing their blood sugar levels, and boosting their immune system.

How to increase fat in breast milk?

Milk fat may be more effectively increased through natural means (i.e. longer & more frequent feeding, massage, breast compression, expressing foremilk before nursing) than by changing mom’s diet.

What to drink to increase breast milk?

Drinks to increase nutrients in breast milk

• Water. Plain water tops the list because not getting enough of it can directly reduce your milk supply.
• Cow’s milk. Cow’s milk is on the list because of its nutrient density.
• Herbal tea with fenugreek.
• Fruit smoothie with chia seeds.
• Coconut water.
• Juice.

Do soft breasts mean no milk?

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.

Is coconut oil is equal to mothers milk?

The proportion of MCFAs in cold pressed coconut oil and lauric acid in mother’s milk is the same. The baby is shielded from disease, malnourishment, and illness by this lauric acid. Lauric and capric acids are two of the essential fatty acids found in human breast milk fat, and they have strong antibacterial qualities.

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 does coconut oil do for pumping?

Using lanolin or a food-grade oil such as coconut or olive oil while pumping may help the nipple to glide in the flange more easily and prevent discomfort. Moms should also avoid turning the suction up too high. If your pump’s suction is too high, it can cause the milk ducts to collapse and decrease your output.

How do I increase my milk supply ASAP?

Breastfeeding frequently—especially in the first hours, days, and weeks—is the main way to increase your milk supply. Your body will make milk to meet your baby’s demand.

Does eating coconut oil increase milk supply?

Can using coconut oil help increase milk supply? Coconut oil can help increase milk supply. It’s a good source of manganese, copper, zinc, iron and selenium. Selenium helps regulate thyroid, which regulates hormones needed for milk supply. However, it’s not a quick fix.

Is coconut oil safe for breastfeeding nipples?

Recommendations include: Keep your nipples hydrated by using coconut oil, petroleum jelly, or lanolin, or your own breastmilk. Wear a loose-fitting bra and clothes. Change nursing pads often to keep them clean and dry.