Most mothers are interested in getting enough breast milk for their babies to develop well. Sometimes, you wonder if the foods you eat affect the milk supply? What should I eat to increase my milk supply? The following article will help you answer those questions.
The best sign for you to know whether you are getting enough milk to breastfeed your baby is the weight gain and development of the growth curve of the baby. It is normal for a newborn to lose weight in the first few days and the baby will start to gain weight again three to 5 days after birth.
How do moms know that the body "produces" enough milk for the baby?
Some other signs show mothers that they are getting enough breast milk:
You feel comfortable and have less pain while breastfeeding;
Your baby may feed at least six to eight times a day and feel comfortable after it;
You feel light after feeding your baby;
You can see and hear your baby swallowing milk while feeding.
Besides, the regular and proper feeding of your baby's needs is also very important to help you create and maintain a good source of milk. If the baby is asleep, the mother can wake her up and encourage her to suckle more.
If you are concerned about your baby's weight or think you do not have enough milk to breastfeed, you can consult your doctor for support when needed.
What foods help strengthen breast milk supply?
Some basic foods that help increase breast milk effectively:
Curry grass
Fenugreek is considered a popular herb in breast milk enrichment.
According to studies, fenugreek helps stimulate the growth of sweat glands; Milk glands are a form of sweat glands, which in turn may help stimulate better milk production. In addition, this herb also helps children reduce the risk of gas and irritability syndrome. You can use fenugreek while drinking tea or making other beverages.
Garlic
Among its known benefits of helping the immune system and preventing heart disease, garlic is also used to boost breast milk supply, but too much garlic can affect the taste and smell. of milk. According to one study, when children eat garlic, children tend to like the taste of garlic in breast milk. However, this is only a small study, so it is difficult to bring comprehensive results.
Some mothers shared that when they eat too much garlic, they can put their babies at risk of fussy syndrome.
Oats and oat porridge
Oats can greatly affect breast milk supply in many ways. An important function of oats is a source of iron, calcium, fiber and vitamin B. When maternal iron levels are low or you have anemia, these can decrease milk supply. . Increasing iron supply in the body also helps stimulate milk production.
In addition, oats are quite easy to eat for many people. Normally, oats are processed in the form of oatmeal porridge, which you can add to beans, milk or fruit to increase the nutritional value of your diet.
Spinach
Spinach is classified as a vegetable that works to supplement the concentration of iron for your body. Especially in the case of mothers with hemorrhage after giving birth or the body loses too much blood when it is exhausted, affecting the milk supply.
In general, a healthy diet is extremely important, not only helping your baby get enough nutrients but also maintaining the health of your body. Breastfeeding varies from person to person, so designing a solution that is right for you and your lifestyle will be essential to help you keep breastfeeding healthy and happy.