5 HOME REMEDIES THAT HELPS YOU LACTATE MORE

To some women, breastfeeding seems like a piece of cake, to others it can be a battle. And even those who have no problem may see the breast milk supply dwindle. Pap (ogi, akamu) has been a long-known secret to increasing lactation however, are there other options?  Here are 5 remedies and foods that can help increase lactation.

1) In many cases, low blood circulation in the breasts is the main reason behind inadequate breast milk supply. If this is the reason, you can use a warm compress on your breast before feeding sessions to increase the blood supply. Massage your breasts gently for five minutes prior to nursing. Dip a clean cloth in warm water and place on the breast. Use the warm cloth to gently massage the area around the nipples, pressing the breast against the chest. After massaging for 5 to 10 minutes, lean forward and breastfeed your baby. You can also try this as a relaxation technique if you notice your breasts have become heavy, but you are not able to feed your baby. It can help facilitate the flow of milk.

2) Cinnamon will also help to increase secretion of breast milk. When nursing mothers eat cinnamon, it helps improve the flavour of breast milk thus making baby suck more. The more baby sucks, the greater the milk let down. Mix a pinch of cinnamon powder and one-half teaspoon of honey. Have it along with a cup of warm milk. Repeat daily before going to bed for one or two months.

3) Being an excellent galactagogue, garlic stimulates lactation. Finely grate three garlic cloves. Boil the grated garlic in one cup of water until the quantity is reduced to about one quarter. Add a cup of milk to the mixture and bring it to a boil again. Remove from heat, mix in one-half teaspoon of honey and strain it. Drink it once daily, in the morning, during the breastfeeding period.

4) Oatmeal is a healthy addition to the diet for mothers who wish to increase their milk production. Oatmeal is a good source of iron and iron deficiency is one of the main reasons behind less breast milk production. Eating a bowl of oatmeal with milk for breakfast each morning is one of the simplest ways to increase breast milk supply.

5) Also, keep the body hydrated by drinking water throughout the day, follow a nutritious diet and try to increase your daily calorie intake, improve the latching position so that both you and baby are comfortable during feeding sessions. Breastfeed your baby from one breast until it becomes empty, and then switch to the next one.

With the remedies above, you can be rest assured that you will lactate adequately and your baby will get enough breast milk. Remember to be a baby-friendly mother by breastfeeding your bundle of joy exclusively for the first six months of life.