Cures for Low Milk Supply

Cupboard Cures for Low Milk Supply

These articles in the "Cures" section are copyrighted and
are not to be reprinted without permission of the author.

Cupboard Cures is a series of articles to assist moms with some of the common breastfeeding challenges. It is a starting point and may give you some relief. You will find most of the remedies are already in your cupboard. Many of these "cures" have been used for centuries and many be of help for you until further assistance can be obtained.

What is low milk supply?
Low milk supply is the number one reason mothers give formula to their babies. If your milk supply is low it is important to find out why. A visit with an International Board Certified Lactation Consultant (IBCLC) can help you determine if you are experiencing low supply or an alternative issue.

What causes low milk supply?
The most common cause of low supply is not breastfeeding often enough. The body knows to make milk faster when milk is removed from the breasts.

What are some cupboard cures for low milk supply?

Nursing the baby more often and even pumping after feedings can help build milk supply. Not only does this stimulate more milk removal it also stimulates the endocrine system to increase the hormones that produce milk. If you do not have an electric pump at home you can hand express your milk. A video of this can be seen at my resources page.
Foods and grains that are high in fiber such as oats, barley, brown rice and beans may increase milk supply. You may be able to look in your cupboard and find oatmeal (preferably not instant), granola or granola bars, and cheerios.
Also looking for recipes using brown rice or barley is a good idea. This could include making homemade soups or even checking the labels of store bought soups which often contain these grains.
Calcium-rich foods such as dark green leafy vegetables and almonds may be helpful so you might consider making a spinach salad instead of using iceberg lettuce.
Dried fruits such as apricots, dates, and figs are also recommended. Typically, when moms eat dried fruits they become thirstier, and drinking plenty of fluids (or fluids to thirst) is also helpful.
Chia seeds, Salmon, Avocado, Bone broth, and Coconut water are also good to add into your diet.
Recipes for baked goods that may increase milk supply can be found in the Recipe Section on the Basking Babies website:
The most common cooking herbs helpful with low-supply issues include anise, blackseed, caraway, coriander, dill, fennel, and fenugreek. Non-food herbs that some moms find helpful include alfalfa, blessed thistle, milk thistle, nettle, goat’s rue, red clover, and shatavari.
Some companies will make a special blend of these herbs. There are several herbal teas available that use a combination of these herbs.
Other cupboard cures are peanuts and sesame seeds. Legumes like beans, peas, and lentils can be used if you don’t have peanuts.
Things to avoid include: mints, parsley, soy, coffee and caffeinated beverages.

Low Milk Supply can be painful and discouraging. Angela is an IBCLC and can offer both professional medical help and support with this or any step in your breastfeeding journey.

Please note: If you have a question about a medical matter you should consult your healthcare provider. Do not rely on the information on this website as an alternative to medical advice from your healthcare provider.