Being a new mom, you've probably heard of lactation cookies and their potential to boost supply of breast milk. These are delicious snacks advertised for low milk production. 

What are lactation cookies?

Lactation cookies are baked goods made specifically for nursing mothers. They usually contain ingredients known as ‘galactagogues’ which are thought to stimulate or increase milk production. The most common ingredients found in these types of food include oats, brewer's yeast, flaxseed, and fenugreek among others.

Are lactation cookies safe for breastfeeding mothers?

Lactation cookies have been under scrutiny when it comes to how secure they are. However, there is no doubt that on their own, each component is considered healthy enough to eat.

Health benefits of lactation cookies

• Lactogenic agents: Fenugreek, oats, and brewer’s yeast are components of lactation cookies. These substances are known to boost milk production as well as promote breastfeeding.

• Energy boost: Lactation cookies have carbohydrates that provide instant energy which lasts long enough during nursing. Hence reducing fatigue while increasing milk supply.

• Healthy digestion: Oats and flax seeds are some ingredients included in making lactation cookies; they help in digestion by preventing constipation thus promoting digestive wellness among breastfeeding women.

Do lactation cookies aid breast milk supply?

The use of lactation cookies as a means to increase milk supply is debatable. There are theories that some ingredients in these cookies – oats, brewer’s yeast, or fenugreek – may be galactagogues (substances that enhance lactation), but scientific research on their efficiency is not enough or even contradictory if it exists at all.

The myth that lactation cookies can significantly aid breast milk supply is not supported by the available scientific evidence. Although they may contain elements traditionally considered as having galactagogue properties, there isn’t much evidence supporting the suggestion that they truly work in this way.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I take fenugreek lactation cookies when breastfeeding?

Fenugreek is a common ingredient in lactation cookies due to its believed ability to increase milk supply. This idea is supported by some scientific research but not all of it. Breastfeeding moms should ask their healthcare providers about taking fenugreek or any other supplements.

1. Can I take lactation cookies during pregnancy?

Although they are mainly made for nursing mothers, some components like flaxseed and oats found in these snacks can be beneficial for overall health during gestation. 

1. Are lactation cookies safe postpartum?

Generally speaking, nursing mothers can consume lactation cookies without worry as long as each ingredient agrees with them.