Will eating cabbage reduce milk supply?

The Relationship Between Cabbage Consumption and Milk Supply
The question of whether eating cabbage can reduce milk supply is a nuanced one, often surrounded by anecdotal evidence and varying opinions. While cabbage is commonly used in topical applications to alleviate breast engorgement, its effects when consumed are less clear.
Cabbage and Engorgement Relief
Cabbage leaves are frequently recommended for their potential benefits in managing breast engorgement. Many mothers have found relief by applying cabbage leaves to their breasts, which can help reduce swelling and discomfort. However, studies indicate that while cabbage leaves may provide some relief from engorgement, there is no strong evidence to suggest that they are more effective than no treatment at all.
Eating Cabbage: What the Evidence Says
When it comes to the consumption of cabbage, the consensus appears to be that eating cabbage does not directly decrease milk supply. In fact, one source explicitly states that cabbage does not reduce milk supply, although it may cause gas for both the mother and the baby. This aligns with the general understanding that dietary choices have varying effects on lactation, but cabbage itself is not typically listed among foods that significantly impact milk production.
Topical Use vs. Dietary Intake
It’s important to differentiate between the topical use of cabbage leaves and their dietary consumption. Overuse of cabbage leaves applied to the breasts can lead to a decrease in milk supply, as excessive application may signal the body to reduce milk production. This is particularly relevant for mothers who are weaning or experiencing issues like mastitis. In such cases, maintaining regular nursing or pumping is crucial to keep milk flowing and prevent a drop in supply.
Conclusion: Moderation is Key
In summary, while cabbage leaves can be beneficial for managing engorgement when applied topically, eating cabbage does not appear to have a negative effect on milk supply. Mothers should feel free to include cabbage in their diets, but as with any food, moderation is essential. If there are concerns about milk supply or dietary choices, consulting with a healthcare provider or lactation consultant can provide personalized guidance.

What shortens your milk supply?

Stress is the No. 1 killer of breastmilk supply, especially in the first few weeks after delivery. Between lack of sleep and adjusting to the baby’s schedule, rising levels of certain hormones such as cortisol can dramatically reduce your milk supply.

How to dry up breast milk naturally?

Tips for Drying Up Your Breast Milk

1. Take acetaminophen (Tylenol) or ibuprofen.
2. Put cold packs on your breasts.
3. Use cold cabbage leaves (wash fresh cabbage and refrigerate; pull off one leaf at a time and lay them over your breasts; keep the leaves on your skin until they get soft).

Does cabbage cause colic in babies?

Maternal diet – certain foods in the mother’s diet may cause symptoms of food allergy or intolerance in her breastfed baby. Some studies have found that particular foods eaten by the motherincluding cabbage, cauliflower, broccoli, chocolate, onions and cow’s milkcan cause an attack of colic in her breastfed infant.

Will my milk supply drop if I don’t eat enough?

A sudden drop in calories can reduce milk supply.

What should a breastfeeding mother avoid eating?

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

Can cabbage decrease milk supply?

Avoid placing the cabbage on any areas of broken skin, including cracked nipples. Watch your milk supply. As soon as you feel relief from your engorgement, it’s important to stop using cabbage leaves. The cabbage leaves can decrease your milk supply.

Can cabbage upset a breastfed baby?

Food sensitivities and gas in breastfed babies
Some moms swear that when they eat foods such as dairy products, broccoli, cabbage, bananas, eggs, or garlic, their babies are gassy and fussy for up to the next 24 hours.

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.

What foods decrease breast milk supply?

Which Foods Might Decrease Your Breast Milk Supply?

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

What is the fastest way to dry up breast milk?

Drink one mug of sage or peppermint tea 3 or 4 times per day, for 2 to 3 days. Pseudoephedrine (Sudafed) can help dry up your milk, but ask your doctor before using this medicine, and do not take it if you have kidney or thyroid problems, or if you have glaucoma. Take Benadryl as directed on the package.