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Is oat good for breastfeeding mothers?

The Nutritional Benefits of Oats for Breastfeeding Mothers
Breastfeeding is a critical period for new mothers, not only for nurturing their infants but also for maintaining their own health. Among the various dietary options available, oats have emerged as a particularly beneficial choice for breastfeeding mothers.
Rich in Nutrients and Energy
Oats are a powerhouse of nutrition, providing essential vitamins and minerals that are crucial during the postpartum period. They are rich in fiber, which aids in digestion and helps stabilize blood sugar levels, a significant benefit for nursing mothers who may experience fluctuations in energy levels due to hormonal changes and the demands of breastfeeding. Additionally, oats are a source of complex carbohydrates, which can provide sustained energy—an important factor for mothers who are often sleep-deprived and busy caring for their newborns.
Galactagogue Properties
One of the most compelling reasons to include oats in a breastfeeding diet is their potential role as a galactagogue, a substance that is believed to help increase milk supply. Many mothers report that consuming oats, particularly in the form of oatmeal, has positively impacted their milk production. While scientific evidence on this is still developing, the anecdotal support from breastfeeding mothers suggests that oats can be a valuable addition to their diets.
Heart Health and Overall Well-Being
In addition to supporting lactation, oats contribute to cardiovascular health. They are known to help lower cholesterol levels, which is particularly beneficial for postpartum women who may be at increased risk for heart-related issues. The fiber in oats not only aids digestion but also promotes a feeling of fullness, which can help mothers manage their weight as they recover from childbirth.
Oat Milk as an Alternative
For those who are lactose intolerant or prefer a dairy-free option, oat milk is an excellent alternative. It is fortified with calcium and vitamin D, both of which are vital for nursing mothers. Oat milk also contains iron, an important nutrient that can help prevent anemia, a condition that may affect milk supply. This makes oat milk a nutritious choice for breastfeeding mothers looking to enhance their dietary intake.
Incorporating Oats into the Diet
To reap the benefits of oats, it is recommended that breastfeeding mothers consume at least one bowl of oatmeal daily. This not only helps meet the increased caloric needs during breastfeeding—estimated at an additional 330 to 400 calories per day—but also ensures a steady intake of the nutrients that oats provide.
In conclusion, oats are not just a simple breakfast option; they are a nutrient-dense food that can support breastfeeding mothers in multiple ways. From enhancing milk supply to promoting overall health, incorporating oats into a balanced diet can be a smart choice for new moms navigating the challenges of motherhood.

What foods cause low milk supply?

Which Foods Might Decrease Your Breast Milk Supply?

  • Alcohol.
  • Sage, Parsley, and Peppermint.
  • Chasteberry.
  • Pseudoephedrine, Methylergonovine, and Bromocriptine.

What is the best breakfast for breastfeeding moms?

Healthy Breakfasts for Breastfeeding Mamas

  • 1. Whole Wheat Toast with Whipped Cream Cheese, Strawberries, Chia Seeds *see above (add honey for some extra sweet!)
  • 3. Greek Yogurt Parfait (Plain) with Mixed Berries, Flaxseed Powder, KIND Granola Clusters (add honey for extra sweet and Almond Butter for extra protein)
  • 4.

What snacks increase breast milk?

These include fruits, vegetables, whole grains, meats, nuts, dairy products, and legumes. As for boosting your milk supply, there’s no magic food that’ll take you from dwindling to overflowing, but some foods have been associated with promoting lactation. These are known as galactagogues.

What foods should I avoid while breastfeeding a baby gassy?

If you notice that each time you eat something your baby becomes fussy, try avoiding the food for a while and see what happens. Many mothers have reported foods such as kale, spinach, beans, onions, garlic, peppers or spicy foods cause infant gas, while many babies tolerate these foods just fine.

Can oats cause gas in breastfed babies?

Foods like beans, broccoli, cauliflower, or some dairy products can cause fussiness, gassiness, or colicky behavior in some babies. Foods like cow’s milk, soy, wheat, corn, oats, eggs, nuts and peanuts, and fish or shellfish are common allergy-causing foods.

Can breastfeeding moms eat overnight oats?

Overnight oats are great to have on hand, especially for breastfeeding moms who need a quick and nutritious meal or snack ready to eat. Not only are oats helpful for supporting breast milk supply, but they can easily be eaten with one hand, which is key when you are holding a baby.

Does eating oats with milk increase weight?

Consuming oats with full cream milk or creamy yogurt can aid in weight loss. Consuming 50g of protein with 300ml of whole milk with added nuts and dried fruits will help in adding extra calories for your weight gain. Another excellent way of using oats for weight gain is to make oatmeal.

What kind of oats are best for breastfeeding?

What kind of oatmeal is good for breastfeeding/milk supply? Any kind of oatmeal should work – rolled oats, old-fashioned oats, steel cut, instant, quick-cooking oats, etc. If you really don’t like oatmeal, I’ve found that overnight oats are a great way to eat oatmeal that tastes better.

Do oats increase breast milk?

Share on Pinterest Oatmeal contains fiber, iron, magnesium, and zinc. According to anecdotal reports, oatmeal is one of the best foods for boosting the milk supply. It is also a good source of nutrients that are important for breastfeeding women and babies.

Can babies be allergic to oats through breastmilk?

Food allergens in the mother’s diet can pass through into the breastmilk so a breastfed baby can have an allergic response or intolerance to something in the mother’s diet.

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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