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Which lentil is good for breastfeeding mothers?

The Best Lentils for Breastfeeding Mothers
Breastfeeding is a crucial period for new mothers, not only for nurturing their infants but also for maintaining their own health. A well-balanced diet is essential during this time, and lentils can play a significant role in providing the necessary nutrients. But which types of lentils are particularly beneficial for breastfeeding mothers?
Nutritional Powerhouses
Lentils are rich in protein, fiber, and essential vitamins and minerals, making them an excellent choice for breastfeeding mothers. They are particularly high in iron, which is vital for replenishing the body’s stores after childbirth and supporting energy levels. Iron is crucial for both the mother and the baby, as it helps in the development of the baby’s brain and overall growth.
Among the various types of lentils, red lentils and green lentils stand out for their unique benefits.
– Red Lentils: These lentils cook quickly and have a mild flavor, making them versatile for soups, stews, and purees. They are particularly high in folate, a B-vitamin that is essential for DNA synthesis and repair, which is important during the postpartum recovery phase. Folate also supports the baby’s development, particularly in the early months.
– Green Lentils: Known for their firm texture and peppery flavor, green lentils are packed with protein and fiber. They are also a good source of magnesium, which can help alleviate stress and promote relaxation—beneficial for new mothers adjusting to the demands of breastfeeding. Additionally, their high fiber content aids in digestion, helping to prevent constipation, a common issue postpartum.
Incorporating Lentils into the Diet
For breastfeeding mothers, incorporating lentils into daily meals can be both easy and delicious. They can be added to salads, blended into soups, or served as a side dish. A simple lentil salad with vegetables and a light dressing can provide a nutritious meal that is quick to prepare.
Moreover, lentils are an excellent source of complex carbohydrates, which provide sustained energy—essential for mothers who may be sleep-deprived and busy caring for their newborns.
Conclusion
In summary, both red and green lentils are excellent choices for breastfeeding mothers. They not only provide essential nutrients that support the health of both mother and baby but also offer versatility in meal preparation. By including these lentils in their diet, breastfeeding mothers can ensure they are meeting their nutritional needs while also enjoying flavorful and satisfying meals.

Do lentils increase milk supply?

Legumes (chickpeas, lentils, lima beans, or green beans) are often used as lactogenic foods. Hummus is an ideal convenient snack for breastfeeding moms as it is a complete protein, and the combination of chickpeas and garlic (another galactagogue) makes this nutrient dense snack a top choice for nursing moms.

What are the best lentils for babies?

Red and yellow lentils are best for babies because they are softer in texture when cooked so they are easier to eat. They become more mushy compared to green, black or brown lentils so they will break down more easily in the baby’s mouth.

Can I eat masoor dal while breastfeeding?

​​Masoor dal soup​
Consuming a bowl of this pink daal can increase the production of breast milk. Eat it with a spoonful of ghee and a pinch of pepper and salt.

Which dal causes gas in babies?

Chana Dal. Also known as split chickpeas, this dal is also loaded with protein and fibre and is said to be extremely nutritious. But, whenever we make this dal, it also causes a lot of gas.

Which lentils are good for breastfeeding mothers?

They are not just rich in nutrients but also help with milk production. For example, red lentils (masoor dal) and yellow lentils (moong dal) have been considered as a ‘galactagogue’ or a milk secretion agent.

Can lentils make breastfed babies gassy?

Beans and lentils cause gas because of they contain a lot of fiber and complex carbs (oligosaccharides and lectin) that humans have trouble digesting. This causes gas to build up in your colon. Fiber and these other complex carbs do not cross into your milk, so they won’t cause gas buildups in your baby’s colon.

Which dal is easiest to digest?

Masoor Dal. It is one of the easiest dal to digest. Has a host of nutrients like Vit A, potassium, Vit B , folate, iron, magnesium, phosperous, and protein.

Can babies eat lentils every day?

Yes. Lentils are rich in B vitamins, including folate to support the nervous system, as well as protein to fuel the muscles and fiber to nourish the gut microbiome. In fact, lentils contain traces of almost every vitamin and mineral that children need as they grow.

Which pulses increase breast milk?

Beetroot and Carrot: The beta carotene in this red and orange vegetable is important to the production of breast milk. Beetroot, carrots have the added benefit of supplying iron and minerals. Chickpeas and Lentils: legumes, such as chickpeas and lentils, have long been touted for their milk-boosting properties.

Which dal is best for breastfeeding?

This nourishing Masoor Dal for the New Mom, on the other hand is one of the best foods you can give the nursing mother. Masoor dal is easy to digest and is said to stimulate/ improve lactation, and is rich in iron and protein.

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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