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What is best to drink for lactating moms?

The Best Drinks for Lactating Moms
For new mothers navigating the journey of breastfeeding, hydration and nutrition play crucial roles in both their health and the quality of their breast milk. Understanding what to drink can significantly impact milk supply and overall well-being.
Hydration is Key
One of the most important aspects of a lactating mother’s diet is adequate hydration. Drinking sufficient water is essential not only for maintaining milk supply but also for preventing dehydration, which can lead to feelings of sluggishness and fatigue. Experts recommend that mothers keep a drink nearby while breastfeeding to encourage regular fluid intake. Water should be the primary beverage of choice, as it is calorie-free and effectively hydrates the body.
Milk and Nutrient-Rich Alternatives
In addition to water, lower-fat milk can be a beneficial option for breastfeeding mothers. It provides essential nutrients such as calcium and vitamin D, which are vital for both the mother and the developing baby. Other nutritious drinks include fortified plant-based milks, which can also offer similar benefits, especially for those who are lactose intolerant or prefer non-dairy options.
Caffeine and Alcohol Considerations
When it comes to caffeine, moderation is key. While small amounts of caffeine (like that found in coffee or tea) are generally considered safe, excessive consumption can lead to irritability in infants and may affect sleep patterns. Therefore, lactating mothers should limit their intake to about 300 mg of caffeine per day, roughly equivalent to two to three cups of coffee.
On the other hand, alcohol consumption poses more significant concerns. The safest approach for breastfeeding mothers is to avoid alcohol altogether. If a mother chooses to drink, it is advised to wait until the alcohol has cleared from her system before breastfeeding again. This typically means waiting at least three hours after consuming a standard drink.
Herbal Teas and Special Drinks
Some mothers may find that certain herbal teas can support lactation. Drinks like fenugreek tea or fennel tea are often touted for their potential to enhance milk supply. However, it’s essential to consult with a healthcare provider before introducing any herbal supplements, as not all herbs are safe during breastfeeding.
Conclusion
In summary, the best drinks for lactating moms include plenty of water, lower-fat milk, and moderate amounts of caffeine, while avoiding alcohol for the health of both mother and baby. By focusing on hydration and nutrient-rich beverages, mothers can support their breastfeeding journey effectively.

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 is the best lactation drink?

Our Favorites to Help Increase Milk Supply

  • Best Overall: Legendairy Milk Liquid Gold.
  • Best Lactation Drink Mix: Munchkin Milkmakers Lactation Drink Mix.
  • Best for Staying Hydrated: Mommy’s Bliss Lactation Hydration Drink Tablets.
  • Best Budget: Traditional Medicinals Organic Mother’s Milk Tea.

What is best for increasing milk supply?

What Are Some Tips to Increase Your Breast Milk Supply?

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

What drinks are good for breastfeeding moms?

drinking plenty of fluids – have a drink beside you when you settle down to breastfeed: water, lower fat milks, lower sugar or sugar-free drinks are all good choices.

What juice is good for milk supply?

Beetroot juice has many nutrients and is naturally sweet. There are electrolytes like potassium and numerous vitamins. There is evidence that drinking this juice during lactation helps your baby like vegetables more when they are later introduced.

Why avoid cinnamon while breastfeeding?

Coumarin, an ingredient in some cinnamon products, can cause liver problems, but the amount you’d get is so small that it probably won’t be a problem. Given the lack of evidence about its safety, children, pregnant women, and women who are breastfeeding should avoid cinnamon as a treatment.

How can I breastfeed my boyfriend but not pregnant?

Inducing lactation in people who aren’t pregnant requires medication that mimics hormones your body makes during pregnancy. Suckling from the nipple can initiate lactation, either with a breast pump or by a baby.

Is cranberry juice good for breastfeeding?

Cranberry juice and cranberry capsules can also be taken during breastfeeding. Most antibiotics for urinary tract infections are safe to use during breastfeeding. See fact sheet on antibiotics and breastfeeding.

What not to drink when you are breastfeeding?

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. If you do drink caffeine, try not to have more than 300mg a day.

How do I hydrate my breastfeeding mother?

Water Needs
In addition to water, other good liquids are juice, milk, broths, herb teas and soups. Exercise and high temperatures will increase your need for liquids. Therefore if you are active or it is warm, make sure you keep hydrated and drink even more water.

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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