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Does melon increase breast milk?

The Connection Between Melon and Breast Milk Production
When it comes to enhancing breast milk supply, many nursing mothers often seek natural dietary solutions. One question that arises is whether consuming melon can contribute to this goal. While melons are not typically highlighted as a primary food for increasing breast milk production, they do offer several benefits that can indirectly support lactation.
Hydration and Nutritional Value
Melons, such as cantaloupe and watermelon, are primarily composed of water—about 90%—making them an excellent choice for hydration. Staying well-hydrated is crucial for nursing mothers, as adequate fluid intake is essential for maintaining milk production. Dehydration can lead to a decrease in milk supply, so incorporating hydrating foods like melon can be beneficial.
In addition to hydration, melons are rich in vitamins and minerals, including vitamin C, vitamin A, and potassium. These nutrients are important for overall health and can support the body’s ability to produce milk. While melons alone may not be a direct stimulant for milk production, their nutritional profile contributes to a balanced diet that supports lactation.
The Role of Diet in Milk Production
Research indicates that a mother’s diet can influence the composition and quantity of breast milk. Foods that are traditionally believed to enhance milk supply include oats, fenugreek, and certain leafy greens. While melon is not specifically listed among these foods, it can still play a supportive role in a well-rounded diet.
Moreover, the psychological aspect of eating—enjoying a refreshing and sweet fruit like melon—can also positively affect a mother’s mood and stress levels, which are important factors in successful breastfeeding. Stress can negatively impact milk supply, so any food that brings joy and relaxation can indirectly support lactation efforts.
Conclusion
In summary, while melon may not be a direct enhancer of breast milk production, its hydrating properties and nutritional benefits make it a valuable addition to a nursing mother’s diet. Staying hydrated and maintaining a balanced intake of nutrients are key components in supporting lactation. Therefore, enjoying melon as part of a diverse and healthy diet can contribute positively to the overall breastfeeding experience.

Is melon good with milk?

Milk and melons should not be eaten together. Both are cooling, but milk is laxative and melon diuretic. Milk requires more time for digestion. Moreover the stomach acid required to digest the melon causes the milk to curdle, so Ayurveda advises against taking milk with sour foods.

Does melon cause gas in breastfed babies?

Large quantities of any particular food may cause your baby to become uncomfortable. 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.

What fruits should I avoid during breastfeeding?

You may have heard that it helps to avoid certain foods while breastfeeding – such as citrus fruits, orange juice, spices (cinnamon, curry, chili pepper), spicy food, and “gassy” veggies (cabbage, onion, broccoli, cauliflower) – but there’s no convincing scientific evidence to support that advice.

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.)

What fruits give breastfed babies gas?

Foods That Might Cause Gas in Breastfed Babies

  • Fiber-rich foods, especially ones that contain bran.
  • Most fruits—particularly apricots, prunes, peaches, pears, plums, and citrus.
  • Vegetables like Brussels sprouts, broccoli, cabbage, artichokes, asparagus, cauliflower, onions, and garlic.

What fruits cause colic in babies?

Apricots, rhubarb, prunes, melons, peaches, and other fresh fruits. Cow’s milk.

What fruits increase breast milk?

Apricots and dates
Eating apricots and dates can increase prolactin, which is the hormone that tells your body to produce milk. Apricots contain essential nutrients such as dietary fiber, vitamin A, vitamin C and potassium. Fresh is better than canned. If you have to go with canned, avoid apricots packed in syrups.

What fruits cause colic in breastfed babies?

Apricots, rhubarb, prunes, melons, peaches, and other fresh fruits.

Which fruit is best for breast?

Because berries contain antioxidants and essential vitamins, they may help reduce your risk of breast cancer. In a study that observed women with breast cancer who consumed high amounts of fruits and vegetables, findings suggested that blueberries may help slow the development and spread of breast tumors.

Is melon good for breastfeeding?

Fruits high in water such as watermelon, cantaloupe, honeydew are all fluid rich and high in Vitamin K, potassium, magnesium and niacin. After birth, most mothers are depleted of hydration, since hydrating is critical piece of making more breastmilk, aiming for these hydrating fruits can support your milk supply.

Natasha Lunn

Tash is an IBCLC and Business Coach helping fellow IBCLCs create fun, profitable businesses that are more than just an expensive hobby. Before becoming an IBCLC and starting her private practice - The Boobala, Tash graduated as an Osteopath in 2008 and has been in Private Practice in South West Sydney. She was also a volunteer Breastfeeding Counsellor and Community Educator with the Australian Breastfeeding Association for 6 years. Through her business, Your Lactation Biz, Tash coaches and creates products to help new and seasoned IBCLCs build businesses that suit their personality and lifestyle.

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