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What fruits are good for breast milk supply?

Fruits That Support Breast Milk Supply
Breastfeeding is a vital aspect of nurturing a newborn, and many mothers seek ways to enhance their milk supply. While hydration and overall nutrition play crucial roles, certain fruits are particularly beneficial for breastfeeding mothers. These fruits not only provide essential nutrients but may also help in boosting milk production.
Key Fruits for Milk Production
1. Green Papaya: Often hailed as a galactagogue, green papaya is known for its potential to increase breast milk supply. This unripe variety of papaya is rich in enzymes and nutrients that may support lactation.
2. Blueberries: Packed with antioxidants, blueberries are not only delicious but also beneficial for breastfeeding mothers. Their high antioxidant content can help combat oxidative stress, which is important for overall health during lactation.
3. Oranges and Grapefruits: These citrus fruits are excellent sources of vitamin C and hydration. They provide essential nutrients that can support both the mother’s health and the quality of breast milk.
4. Avocado: Rich in healthy fats, avocados are a great addition to a breastfeeding diet. They provide essential fatty acids that are important for the baby’s brain development and can help in maintaining the mother’s energy levels.
5. Bananas: Known for their potassium content, bananas can help in maintaining energy levels and hydration. They are also easy to digest, making them a convenient snack for busy mothers.
6. Berries: In addition to blueberries, other berries like strawberries and raspberries are also beneficial. They are low in calories and high in vitamins, making them a nutritious choice for breastfeeding mothers.
The Importance of a Balanced Diet
While incorporating these fruits can be beneficial, it’s essential to remember that no single food will dramatically increase milk supply on its own. A balanced diet that includes a variety of foods—such as whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats—is crucial for overall health and effective breastfeeding.
Moreover, hydration is key; however, simply drinking more fluids does not necessarily lead to increased milk production. Instead, focusing on a well-rounded diet that includes these nutrient-rich fruits can support lactation more effectively.
Conclusion
In summary, fruits like green papaya, blueberries, oranges, avocados, bananas, and various berries can play a supportive role in enhancing breast milk supply. By integrating these fruits into a balanced diet, breastfeeding mothers can nourish themselves and their babies effectively. As always, consulting with a healthcare provider or a lactation consultant can provide personalized guidance tailored to individual needs.

Which fruits increase breast milk quickly?

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

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.

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.

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 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 can I eat to increase my breast milk?

Many vegetables, whole grains, and herbs are high in plant estrogens and other compounds that may increase milk supply. They’re called galactagogues. New mothers in many cultures have used these foods for centuries to optimize breastfeeding.

What fruits give breastfed babies gas?

Citrus fruits, prunes, plums, peaches, or apricots. Vegetables. Broccoli, cabbage, and Brussel sprouts. Garlic.

Why can’t you eat chocolate while breastfeeding?

Caffeine. It’s not just tea and coffee that contains caffeine – it’s in chocolate, and various energy drinks and soft drinks. It’s sensible to cut caffeine out while breastfeeding because it’s a stimulant so can make your baby restless.

What fruits should I avoid while breastfeeding?

Food Items to Avoid During Breastfeeding:

  • Chocolate.
  • Spices like cinnamon, garlic, curry, chili pepper.
  • Citrus fruits and their juices, like oranges, lemons, limes, and grapefruit.
  • Strawberries.
  • Kiwifruit.
  • Pineapple.
  • The gassy veggies like onion, cabbage, garlic, cauliflower, broccoli, cucumbers, and peppers.

What to drink to increase breastmilk?

Research Evidence: Adding fenugreek to your diet (either as a tea or supplement) has been shown to increase milk production, especially in the early days of breastfeeding. Recommendation: Enjoy a cup of herbal tea (fenugreek, nettle, or fennel) daily.

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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