what is a galactagogue?
ga•lac•ta•gogue: a food or drug that promotes or increases the flow of a mother's milk.
Breastmilk is truly one of nature’s miracles, a substance with potent immunological and nutritional components to support your growing baby’s needs.
One of the most common questions from new mothers who breastfeed is: what should I eat and what supplements should I take to increase production?
Below is a list of lactogenic foods, herbs and supplements, and reach out with questions if you are wanting more information.
And while this post is for those who choose to breastfeed and are curious about how to support their supply, we want to recognize those who choose not to and/or aren’t able to breastfeed for a myriad of reasons. There is no perfect way other than the way you choose to do it. 🙌🏻
Water: Adequate hydration is key to maintaining milk supply. Aim to drink your body weight in ounces of water each day, and to rehydrate with 8oz of water during each feed. Coconut water, fruit infusions and non-caffeinated herbal teas are a great way to boost hydration.
Protein + Fats: Nuts and healthy fats, grass-fed animal protein. These essential macronutrient foods support the ever-changing needs of your growing baby all while suppling you with the energy and nutrient density to sustain the demands of motherhood.
carbohydrates: Ginger, brown rice, oats, iron-rich leafy greens, sweet potatoes, peas, beets and carrots. Add these to soups, smoothies (don’t forget your warming herbs), rice bowls and oatmeal bites for a nutrient boost.
Superfoods: Barley grass, spirulina and brewers yeast are powerful supplements that can boost supply and increase nutrient density of your milk.
Herbal Teas: Try sipping on fennel, fenugreek, dandelion, red raspberry leaf, nettle and turmeric tea throughout the day for a lactogenic boost.