Did you know that breastfeeding is the norm for most moms these days? Did you also know that with that fact comes a number of challenges and obstacles? One of the biggest obstacles to overcome is how to increase breast milk supply.
Many moms struggle with this aspect of nursing their baby, even if they have access to all the best lactation consultants and support groups. There are a number of reasons why this happens, but thankfully there are also multiple ways to help address the issues and get your supply back on track. Here are some effective tips and tricks on how to increase breast milk supply so you can continue nursing your little one.
Why Does Breast Milk Supply Drop?
Breast milk supply often decreases after the first few weeks after giving birth. This is usually due to the fact that moms aren’t producing as much milk as they were before they gave birth. Some of the reasons why breast milk supply may drop include:
- Decreased hormone levels – Estrogen, progesterone, and prolactin levels drop after giving birth, which can lead to decreased milk production.
- Poor positioning – It’s important to get into a good nursing position to allow your baby to properly latch on and get the nutrients they need.
- Poor diet – A diet that is high in protein and dairy products can increase milk production, while a diet high in carbs can decrease it.
- Stress – Too much stress or anxiety can lower your milk production.
- Infection or illness – If you have an infection or illness, your body may redirect its resources to fighting that off, which can lower your milk production as a result.
Build Your Milk Supply with Food
There are a number of foods that can help to boost your breast milk supply, including:
- Dairy products – Dairy products, especially those that are high in protein, can help to boost the production of breast milk.
- Oatmeal – Oats have been shown to help increase breast milk production.
- Carrots – Carrots are high in Vitamin A, which has been shown to help boost breast milk production.
- Bananas – Bananas have been proven to have a healthy impact on breast milk production.
- Beans – Beans are loaded with protein and can help to boost your breast milk production.
- Fruits – Fruits are loaded with healthy vitamins and minerals that help to boost your breast milk production.
Increase Breast Milk Supply With Supplementation
If you’re still having issues with boosting your breast milk supply, you may want to consider supplementation. Supplementing with a breast milk supplement is a great way to boost your milk production if you’re having trouble naturally.
- There are a few different types of breast milk supplements that you can choose from, including donor milk, frozen breast milk, and formula.
- Donor milk is the best choice if your baby has any sort of medical condition or allergy. This is breast milk that has been donated by other mothers, so you know it’s safe.
- Frozen breast milk is a great option if you have excess breast milk that you pumped previously. This way, you’re not having to pump right now, but your baby can still get the nutrients they need.
- A formula is a great option if you can’t produce any breast milk at all. Make sure to talk with your doctor about the best formula for your baby.
Try These Natural Remedies
There are a few different natural remedies that you can use to help increase your breast milk supply.
- Drink plenty of water. This can help to increase your milk supply.
- Eat plenty of protein-rich foods. Foods that are high in protein can help to boost breast milk production.
- Eat plenty of healthy fats and complex carbohydrates. These can help to keep your energy levels up and help to keep your milk flowing.
- Eat plenty of foods rich in calcium. Calcium has been shown to help boost breast milk production.
More Breastfeeding Tips
- Remember that nursing is a skill. Like anything else, you have to practice to get better at it. Focus on getting your baby positioned correctly and maintaining good posture while nursing.
- Be sure to nurse your baby on both sides. While it is recommended that you nurse on the right side first, alternating sides every feeding is important. Your baby needs both sides to get all the nutrients they need.
- Take breaks during feedings. This is not only good for your baby, but it can also help to increase breast milk supply.
- Get plenty of rest. This can help you recover better and build your milk supply.
- Stay hydrated. Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated and healthy.
- Avoid certain medications. Some prescription medications can reduce breast milk supply.
Conclusion
Breastfeeding is a great way for your baby to get their nutrients, but it does require some work on your part. If you’re struggling with a low milk supply, then you can employ any of these methods to try to boost your production. Make sure to speak with a doctor if you are concerned about a low milk supply. In most cases, you can take steps to boost your production without needing to supplement with formula. If you follow these steps and tips, you will be able to increase your breast milk supply and start breastfeeding your child without having to supplement with formula.