Breastfeeding 101: What things can you take/eat to increase your milk supply?

August 4, 7:31 AMEarly Childhood Parenting ExaminerAngele Sionna

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Breastfeeding 101: What foods and drinks can you consume to increase your milk supply when breastfeeding a baby?

Sometimes you need a little help to boost milk production when breastfeeding - whether you're having problems with baby's latching, technique or your breasts just simply don't make enough. Talking with a lactation consultant at the hospital is your first best bet to help increase your supply.

Jennifer Ritchie, certified lactation consultant and current Vice President of the Orange County Breastfeeding Coalition, says, "Breastfeeding is physical and hormonal. If a woman is getting enough nipple stimulation (8 or more times every 24 hours) they may have a issue with their hormone levels. The hormone you need to make milk is Prolactin, and there are many reasons why a woman may have issues with their hormone levels. These issues can include thyroid issues and PCOS."

There are some supplements you can take, teas you can drink and foods you can eat to help boost your breast milk supply. These are things that are called Galactogogues. They include:

• old fashioned oatmeal
• brown rice
• beans
• fenugreek
• fennel
• blended thistle
• goads rue

Eating a wholesome diet can do wonders on its own says Susan E Mead, author of Take Back Your Body. Things to include, she says, in your diet to increase milk production: "apricots, asparagus, green beans, carrots, sweet potatoes, peas, pecans, and all leafy greens which should be abundantly consumed (cooked or raw, but more raw in the summer). Dandelion greens are a specific to help support lactation. Unless a vegetarian, I also recommend grass-fed beef or bison 1-2 times a week, fish and wholesome eggs often."

There are also prescriptions your doctor can recommend that are Galactogogues. Ritchie says those include Motilum and Reglan.

Nurse Practitioner Barb Dehn says also remember to increase your fluid intake! Drink at least 8 8-ounce glasses of water and eat juicy fruits, soups and even popsicles!

What about foods to avoid that will work against you and decrease milk production? Read the answers to that HERE.