Foods & Meds that Impact Milk Supply
Many breastfeeding/chestfeeding or lactating parents worry about their milk supply and if they’ve done anything to impact it.
Recent studies show a high prevalence of galactagogues in the USA with first-time parents and those pumping milk being more likely to use them.
So what’s the deal with foods and medications that impact milk supply? How can I know what will impact my milk supply?
Galactagogues
Galactagogues are foods, herbs or medications that promote lactation and milk supply. Many promised galactagogues have not been shown to increase milk supply, but there are many people that believe in their boosting effects.
Galactagogues may be effective in boosting milk supply but on their own may not be enough. Milk removal by increased breastfeeding or pumping is still the most effective way to increase your milk supply.
Below are some food based galactagogues you can incorporate into your daily life:
Whole grains, fiber, oats
Papaya
Fennel
Seasame seeds and other nuts/seeds like almonds
Ginger and other spices like cumin, anise seeds and turmeric
Here are some herbal supplement galactagogues:
Fenugreek
Moringa or Malunggay
Shatavari
Goat’s rue
Blessed thistle
Nettle
Brewer’s Yeast
Black seed oil
Please discuss with your healthcare provider all supplements being taken and if they interact with any conditions or medications prior to taking.
Many supplements are marketed specifically for the breastfeeding or lactating parent. There isn’t sufficient evidence to promote one brand of supplements over any other. Please consider cost effectiveness and your conversations with a healthcare provider when choosing an herbal supplement.
Medications
Medications may impact your milk supply by increasing or decreasing it. Please discuss with your healthcare provider and weigh the risks and benefits of taking a medication with possible impact on lactation.
Antihistamines and Pseudoephedrine- Medications often used for allergies or colds have been reported to DECREASE milk supply. Consider stopping a medication under guidance of your healthcare provider if you notice a decrease in your normal milk supply.
Reglan/Metoclopramide, Fortamet/Metformin, Domperidone (not available in USA) or Thyroid Medication - Medications that can be used as a galactagogue to increase milk supply. Please discuss with your healthcare provider prior to initiating medication for the purpose of increasing milk supply.
Nutrition
Adequate calories and fluids are also key to increasing or maintaining your milk supply.
Eat when you’re hungry. Drink when you’re thirsty.
The easiest way to maintain your milk supply is to follow your own cues like you follow your baby’s cues. Breastfeeding or lactating parents may find themselves feeling more hungry which is totally normal. Breastfeeding or lactating can burn about 500 calories a day! Having high quality, easily accessible food can help you get the calories you need.
A balanced diet and tuning in to your body’s needs is key to your milk supply.
You don’t need to “drink milk to make milk” but you do need to stay hydrated. Drink to your thirst and remember that foods like fruits and vegetables contain water too. Daily water intake doesn’t have to look like 8 glasses of plain water a day! Find whatever beverage you like most and sip on it throughout the day.
