Tips to Increase Breast Milk Production
The biggest concern of nursing mothers is perhaps whether or not they are producing sufficient milk. The good news is that even if you are facing difficulties and are unable to make adequate quantities of milk, there are ways to increase your breast milk production. It is best to consult a lactation specialist or a healthcare provider if you have serious concerns regarding milk production.

Signs of Good Milk Production
One of the best ways to gauge whether or not you’re producing enough milk is to check if the baby is gaining weight. If the newborn is growing well (in line with the ideal growth curve), then you have nothing to worry about. It is also important to remember that newborn babies tend to lose some weight in the initial few days after birth. However, they slowly start to gain weight and revert back to their original weight when they turn 14 days old.

There are some other indications which can tell that your milk production is sufficient:

Breastfeeding is painless and comfortable.

Breasts feel softer and emptier post feeding.

The baby is feeding a minimum of 6 to 8 times daily and feels satisfied after a feed.

There is a clear sound of the baby swallowing as he/she is feeding.

How to Boost Milk Production
It is vital to understand that breasts produce milk on demand. Hence, if the baby nurses more, the breasts will work to produce a greater amount of milk. When babies experience a growth spurt, many mothers tend to think that the baby seems to be extremely hungry, possibly because he/she is not getting enough milk. This is a false assumption. Actually, the baby is preparing your body to produce sufficient milk for supporting growth post the spurt.

Although, there isn’t any concrete scientific research to prove that the below mentioned foods can help increase breast production, doctors and nutrition experts do recommend consuming them if milk production is poor.

1. Oatmeal
Oatmeal is said to be excellent for producing and maintaining adequate milk supply in nursing mothers. You can have a hearty bowl for breakfast with yogurt or milk every day. In addition to boosting milk supply, oatmeal also helps in lowering cholesterol and regulating blood pressure.

2. Fenugreek seeds
Fenugreek seeds have been utilized all over the world for generations to enhance breast milk production. There is some research backing this ancient traditional belief and its effectiveness.

Fenugreek seeds offer healthy vitamins which are required by lactating mothers like omega-3 fats. The brain development of your baby is enhanced by these omega-3 fats. In addition to this, Fenugreek leaves are also rich in B vitamins, betacarotene, calcium and iron.

3. Fennel Seeds
Fennel seeds are considered to be another ancient remedy to boost milk supply. Almost all new mothers are given fennel seeds as they help in preventing colic and gas in the baby. It is through the breast milk that the benefits of these seeds will reach the baby.

So if you are a lactating mother, make sure you include these items in your diet to keep you and your baby healthy.  

Article Reviewed By Crystal Ibetoh MD, MBA reviews each article and ensures the accuracy of the health information. Dr. Ibetoh has strong medical interests in women's health and preventative medicine. She is also a mother of three and uses her medical expertise in addition to personal experience to provide advice about breastfeeding.

*The information provided on this site is intended for your general knowledge only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice or treatment. Please consult your healthcare provider with any questions or concerns you may have regarding breastfeeding.*