Ways to Increase Breast Milk after Delivery

Mother’s milk is the most important food for the baby after birth. Some women are unable to feed their baby after the first delivery. Not feeding milk means that they do not get milk from the breast, the biggest reason for which is that milk is not produced in the milk ducts. Due to less milk in the breast, the child remains hungry and does not get the necessary nutrition, due to which the child becomes weak. If you are also worried about having less milk in the breast, then we are telling you about the measures to increase breast milk that you can adopt.

There are many new mothers who want to increase their milk supply because they feel that they are not able to produce enough to meet the needs of their baby. This worry remains in the mind of every mother. Many mothers have this doubt because every mother wants only the best for her child.

It is extremely important to pay attention to a mother’s diet during the days of breastfeeding, as it affects not only the quantity and quality of milk produced but also the postnatal recovery of the mother. It is important to consult a nutritionist when planning a postpartum diet so that they can balance nutritional needs, keeping in mind which foods increase breast milk.

Signs of Low Breast Milk Supply
Many mothers worry about their milk supply and whether they are producing enough milk for their baby. Obviously, the amount of milk consumed by the baby cannot be measured exactly.

The best indication of an adequate supply of breast milk is to check the baby’s weight. The baby needs to be taken to the doctor regularly, and the weight of the baby needs to be checked to know that it is developing and growing at the right rate. However, it is common for babies to lose weight soon after birth. This problem will go away on its own after 5–6 days after the birth of the baby. By day 14, your baby will weigh exactly the same as it did at birth.

If you’re not sure how much your baby weighs, look for the following signs to make sure your milk is increasing enough:

• Breastfeeding your baby is comfortable and painless for you.
• Your breasts become soft and empty after each feed.
• Your baby lets go of the breast on his own after he’s finished feeding.
• You can feel the swallowing movements of the baby during breastfeeding.
• Your baby likes to drink milk again and again. Most babies feed at intervals of 1.5 to 2 hours.

Your baby passes urine about seven times a day, and the stools are pale yellow in colour with some lumps. Babies fed exclusively on breast milk may have bowel movements several times a day or only once every five days. Both the conditions are considered normal; there is nothing to worry about. It is also important to check that the baby has properly placed the nipple in his mouth while feeding and to note that he stops during feeding. Your baby’s face will help you know when he is full.

The following signs are not symptoms of a low breast milk supply.

• Decreased lactation period.
• Evening milk consumption is irritable.
• Milk does not flow from the breasts.
• Breastfeeding frequently.
• When pumping, little or no milk comes out.

It is very important that the baby breastfeeds properly. If he is unable to grasp the nipple or is in the wrong position, he may find it difficult to feed. Incorrect breastfeeding can also result from other physical problems. It is very important that breast milk be expressed to ensure that the mother’s breasts continue to produce enough milk. If the baby is not able to do this, then you can express the milk in a cup.

How to Increase Breast Milk?

• By frequently breastfeeding, the mother produces more milk.
• Keep feeding the baby every 1.5 to 2 hours till he wants to drink.
• Feed the baby from both breasts; if one breast runs out, feed the baby from the other.
• Take care of yourself, make sure you eat a healthy diet, and rest yourself as well as your baby.
• Stimulate milk from the breast to increase the production of breast milk.

Avoid feeding bottles or pacifiers, as this can lead to nipple confusion. This means that if the baby gets used to bottle feeding, he may find it difficult to hold the nipple while feeding. Give your baby only breast milk and no other solid foods until he is 6 months old.

30 Best Breast Milk Increasing Foods

Although no tests have been conducted to prove that the following foods have a good effect on breast milk production, these foods have been used by lactating mothers for generations. Include these foods in your daily diet rather than just as supplements.

1. Fenugreek Seeds
   Fenugreek seeds have been used for generations around the world to increase the production of breast milk. These fats are rich in omega-3, which is important for your baby’s mental development. You can also use fenugreek leaves, which are rich in beta-carotene, vitamin B, calcium, and iron. Fenugreek seeds can also be used with tea or to make vegetables. These seeds are also added to bread (roti) and poori (deep-fried puffed bread).
2. Fennel
   Apart from being used to increase milk supply, fennel is also used to reduce gas and abdominal pain. It is believed that the benefits of fennel are passed on to the baby through breast milk. Soak one teaspoon of fennel seeds in a glass of water overnight and drink this water in the morning, or you can use it with tea as well.
3. Garlic
   Garlic is well-known for its immune-boosting properties, ability to prevent heart disease, and curative properties. Garlic affects the taste and smell of breast milk, so use it in moderation.
4. Green, Leafy Vegetables
   Leafy vegetables such as spinach, kale, fenugreek leaves, and mustard greens are excellent sources of minerals such as iron, calcium, and folate acid. They also contain a lot of vitamins and are believed to increase breast milk production. Green leafy vegetables should be consumed at least once per day.
5. Bitter Gourd
   Bitter gourd is a highly nutritious vegetable; it has a high water content, which prevents dehydration in the mother’s body. It is easy to digest, and its consumption also increases the supply of milk in the breast. Although many people do not like the taste of bitter gourd, you can find new ways to make it more palatable.
6. Green Tea
   Green tea is rich in antioxidants and minerals for physical comfort. A cup of green tea every day helps to cleanse your internal organs, helps with blood circulation and cholesterol balance, and is believed in some countries to increase breast milk production. helps significantly.
7. Milk
   Cow’s milk in particular is naturally rich in folic acid, calcium, and healthy fats. This not only aids in milk production but also ensures that your baby’s milk is nutritious and in a balanced amount. Drink two glasses of milk per day to increase your baby’s breast milk production.
8. Oatmeal
   Oatmeal is full of energy and great for controlling postpartum diabetes. It is rich in fiber, which has a positive effect on your digestive system. You can also use it for breakfast, in the form of cookies. Nutritionists recommend adding oats to any diet to increase milk production in the breasts.
9. Raw Papaya
   Along with promoting milk production, unripe papaya also acts as a natural sedative that will help you relax. You can eat raw papaya by kissing it in a salad. Raw papaya is known to be one of the best fruits for increasing breast milk.
10. Carrot
    Carrots rich in Vitamin A boost the production of breast milk as well as improve the quality of the milk produced. Eat carrots raw in the form of a salad or extract their juice and drink it with breakfast in the morning. Carrots are an excellent source for increasing the production of breast milk, and they are easily available all over the world.
11. Barley
    Barley promotes the production of breast milk and, at the same time, does not allow your body to dehydrate. You can have it as a salad or soak it in hot water overnight and drink the water the next day.
12. Asparagus
    Asparagus is a fiber-rich food item that is rich in vitamins A and K. It stimulates the hormones that are responsible for the production of breast milk. Stir-fry or steam it in a pan with another vegetable for a delicious meal or snack.
13. Brown Rice
    Some research has shown that brown rice is more beneficial for increasing the production of milk in the breast. It helps stimulate the hormones responsible for the production of milk. It also gives more energy to the mother and keeps her healthy. Cook it in a pressure cooker and eat it with vegetables.
14. Apricot
    Apricots are great for helping to stabilise hormonal imbalances and should be consumed both before and after delivery. These foods are rich in calcium and fibre and help increase the production of breast milk. They can be eaten with oats for breakfast in the morning.
15. Salmon
    If fresh salmon is easily available, then you should include it in your diet. This fatty omega-3 and other essential fatty acids, or EFA, are filled with This food item is best for the production of breast milk and is also considered a kind of superfood. This makes the milk produced more nutritious. You can consume salmon in many different ways, such as by steaming, grilling, or pan-frying.
16. Cumin
    Cumin, known to help with digestion, constipation, acidity, and bloating, also helps increase breast milk production. It is also rich in vitamins and calcium, and you can use it in salads or soak it in water overnight to get more benefits and drink this water.
17. Sweet Potatoes
    Sweet potatoes are rich in carbohydrates, which are more important for providing energy to the mother. It is rich in vitamin C, B-complex, and magnesium. You can make a variety of sweet and savoury(respectable) dishes with sweet potatoes.
18. Almonds
    It is a superfood that is rich in vitamin E and omega-3 fatty acids. In addition, the nutritional value of almonds, which contain polyunsaturated fats, makes them a superfood. To increase milk supply, you can eat raw almonds or take almond supplements. In many parts of the world, almonds are considered to be one of the best snacks because of their immense health benefits. This is the reason why doctors recommend almonds for lactating mothers.
19. Dill
    If you are wondering how to increase breast milk naturally at home, then the answer is to consume dill. This vegetable is rich in magnesium, iron, and calcium, making it an ideal addition to any dish; it also helps increase breast milk production.
20. Water
    People often ignore water while wondering what to eat to increase milk production in the breasts. Adequate hydration is essential for improving breast milk production, so do not forget to drink plenty of water evenly throughout the day.
21. Drumstick
    Drumsticks are rich in iron and calcium and are known to help increase breast milk production during pregnancy. Including this vegetable during lunch or breakfast can help you ensure that you are producing enough breast milk for your baby.
22. Tulsi
    Tulsi has been used for generations by lactating mothers. Along with aiding in the production of milk, this plant is also known for its calming effect, aiding bowel movements, and promoting a healthy appetite. You can take basil by adding it to tea, which will give relief to your body.
23. Chickpeas
    The chickpea is a superfood that is high in protein and fiber. It may be considered healthy for anyone, but the properties of vitamin B-complex and calcium in chickpeas ensure that it increases the production of milk in your breast.
24. Beetroot
    Beetroot is one of the most nutritious vegetables and it is also a blood purifier, contains fiber, and contains many healthy minerals, all of which have properties that help promote the production of breast milk. Beetroot also helps to ensure that the breast milk also has some blood-purifying properties for the baby.
25. Lentils
    Due to the abundance of minerals, vitamins, and proteins found in lentils, they are a commonly used food item around the world. To make it more healthful in general, add some type of fibre found in lentils; it is highly nutritious and also helps to increase the production of milk in the breast.
26. Tofu
    Tofu is a superfood that contains minerals, vitamins, calcium, and a lot of protein. It is commonly used in East Asia to help increase breast milk production. Make a stir-fry of tofu, lentils, and green leafy vegetables together for a balanced and well-suited meal to increase breast milk production. This recipe will keep you completely fit and healthy.
27. Chakotra (Grape Fruit)
    Grapefruit, considered a great fruit in some parts of the world, is rich in vitamins C and A, citric acid, fructose, and essential dietary fiber. This fruit is considered one of the healthiest foods to include in anyone’s diet and is especially good for moms looking for ways to increase their milk supply.
28. Mole
    When asked about foods to increase breast milk production, many people recommend sesame seeds. This seed is a great source of calcium without milk, which is great for your baby’s development. After delivery, the mother also needs calcium for an effective and complete recovery.
29. Curry Leaves
    The reason why curry leaves are considered a delicacy in the Indian subcontinent is because these delicious leaves have been shown to boost melanin, improve blood circulation, and help increase your body’s ability to break down nutrients. Is . The leaves are also rich in minerals that help lactating mothers boost their milk production.
30. Watermelon
    Watermelon is rich in fructose, fiber, and, yes, water. It keeps your body hydrated, supplies essential minerals to your body, and helps maintain or increase breast milk production. Drinking enough water and eating foods rich in hydrating minerals like watermelon can be of immense help to mothers facing problems with milk production.

Why is it Essential for a Mother to Remain Stress-Free while Breastfeeding?

Stress is the biggest reason for the low production of breast milk. If you are suffering from stress after delivery, then it can increase your problems. In this situation, you may need to seek help from a mental health specialist. But, instead of seeking professional help, talking openly with your partner, family, or doctor will make your life easier. It is also recommended that you meditate daily and do some work to help you relax.

Keep in mind that when you are making a diet plan to stimulate milk production, you should also consider that your body has other needs as well. It is important to have a balanced and healthy diet with a variety of ingredients to support your milk supply. Your diet should not be designed solely to increase milk production. Make sure you regularly talk to your doctor about your health and seek the help of a dietician to meet your dietary needs. Just changing the diet is not enough; along with this, doctors also recommend exercising for about 30 minutes daily, which helps boost the immune system of the mother and improve blood flow as well. You are advised to exclusively breastfeed your baby for about 6 months and continue to breastfeed until about 2 years of age.