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What can I drink to increase my breast milk?

Increasing Breast Milk Supply: What to Drink
For new mothers navigating the challenges of breastfeeding, ensuring an adequate milk supply is often a top priority. While many factors influence breast milk production, certain beverages can play a significant role in enhancing supply. Here’s a closer look at what you can drink to help increase your breast milk.
Hydration is Key
First and foremost, staying well-hydrated is crucial. Water should be your primary beverage, as it helps maintain overall hydration levels, which is essential for milk production. Aim to drink plenty of water throughout the day, especially during and after breastfeeding sessions. Some mothers find that drinking a glass of water before nursing can stimulate let-down reflexes, making it easier for the baby to feed.
Herbal Teas and Infusions
In addition to water, certain herbal teas are renowned for their lactogenic properties. Fenugreek tea is particularly popular among breastfeeding mothers. Fenugreek seeds have been traditionally used to boost milk supply, and many women report positive results after incorporating this tea into their routine. Other herbal options include blessed thistle and fennel tea, both of which are believed to support lactation.
Smoothies for Nutritional Boost
Smoothies can be an excellent way to combine hydration with nutrition. Incorporating ingredients like oats, spinach, and nuts can provide essential vitamins and minerals that support milk production. Oats, in particular, are rich in iron, which is beneficial for lactation. Adding a banana or some berries can enhance flavor and provide additional nutrients.
Lactation-Boosting Drinks
Some mothers turn to specially formulated lactation drinks available in stores or online. These beverages often contain a blend of ingredients designed to support milk supply, such as oats, brewer’s yeast, and flaxseed. While these can be convenient, it’s essential to check the ingredient list to ensure they align with your dietary preferences and needs.
Avoiding Dehydrating Beverages
While focusing on what to drink, it’s equally important to consider what to avoid. Caffeinated beverages can lead to dehydration, which may negatively impact milk supply. If you choose to consume coffee or tea, do so in moderation and balance it with increased water intake. Additionally, alcoholic drinks should be limited, as they can interfere with milk production and affect your baby.
Listening to Your Body
Ultimately, every mother’s body is different, and what works for one may not work for another. It’s essential to listen to your body and observe how different drinks affect your milk supply. If you notice a decrease in production, consider adjusting your fluid intake or consulting with a lactation consultant for personalized advice.
In conclusion, maintaining hydration with water, exploring herbal teas, and enjoying nutrient-rich smoothies can significantly contribute to increasing breast milk supply. By making mindful choices about what you drink, you can support your breastfeeding journey and ensure your baby receives the nourishment they need.

What drinks help boost breast milk supply?

Water is the best thing to drink, but milk (regular or fortified plant milk alternative) and juice are also good options. They’re both hydrating and will provide important vitamins and minerals that your body needs. And caffeine-free iced or hot herbal teas can contribute to your daily fluid goal.

Does drinking water increase breast milk?

Some mothers may need more or less. It is important to listen to your body and drink when you feel thirsty. Drinking excess fluids will not help increase your milk supply.

What liquid produces more breast milk?

While there isn’t one particular drink that’s “best” for breastfeeding, there are certain drinks that are better than others.

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

How can I trick my body into producing more breast milk?

Research shows that the BEST way to boost supply is to nurse at the breast often. We know this isn’t an option for every mom, but opt for breastfeeding over pumping whenever possible. The idea behind power pumping is to trick your body into producing more milk by rapidly emptying the breasts.

When is it too late to increase milk supply?

NO, it is NEVER too late! 🚫⏰ With the right pump, flange, and schedule, you can absolutely increase your milk supply at any stage of your pumping journey.

How can I increase my breast milk quickly?

Pumping or expressing milk frequently between nursing sessions, and consistently when you’re away from your baby, can help build your milk supply. Relax and massage. Relax, hold your baby skin-to-skin, and massage your breasts before feeding to encourage your milk to let down. Take care of yourself.

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.

Which fruit is best for increasing breast milk?

Eating apricots and dates can increase prolactin, which is the hormone that tells your body to produce milk.

How can I drastically increase my milk supply?

What Are Some Tips to Increase Your Breast Milk Supply?

  1. Breastfeed your baby more often, at least eight or more times in 24 hours.
  2. Offer both breasts at each feeding.
  3. Massage breasts while baby is nursing.
  4. Ensure the baby is completely emptying your breasts at each feeding.

What triggers more breast milk?

Frequent feeding or pumping will cause your body to make more milk.

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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