When I became a first-time Mom during Eira’s time, every woman I met had some advice. For me, for the baby and mostly about what-to-eat and what not-to-eat. My Mom had this list of things which I was supposed to have on a daily basis and on the top of the list was galactogogues.
Galactogogues are foods that promote lactation. They help maintain the supply of breastmilk that kicks in the initial days and also helps increase it as days go by and the baby’s needs increase. Instead of trying them all regularly, which was not possible, I stuck to these 5 galactogogues which are highly effective and recommended by gynaecologists and pediatricians as well.
- Shatavari
Shatavari also known as asparagus, is highly recommended for increasing breastmilk supply and the results can be seen faster. It also helps to heal the reproductive system of the new mother as it has the benefits of toning the system, encouraging blood circulation and regulating the hormonal functions. It is used for all stages of a woman’s reproductive cycle. It helps regulate the breastmilk supply in new mothers and helps in nourishment of young babies as well. Since it is a natural herb, it’s consumption by mothers does not harm the baby. It has antioxidants and helps prevent free radical cell damage.
How to consume: Many good brands offer this herb in the form of a powder to be added with milk or juices. I consume it twice daily with warm milk and turmeric. Brands like Dhootpapeshwar Shatavari Kalpa and Balaji Tambe’s Santulan Shatavari Kalpa are ayurvedic and have the best results. - Fenugreek/ Methi seeds
Methi contains phytoestrogens and diosgenin, a key compound which helps increase breastmilk production. It is said to soothe muscle pain and cramps. It is a great digestive and soothes upset stomach.
How to consume:
Methi seeds are traditionally added to dosa batter and in the tempering of veggies but that little quantity is not enough. A tbsp of methi seeds should be soaked overnight and consumed early morning. Methi sabzi can be consumed regularly as that also helps alot. Methi laddoo is one of the oldest recipes that our Moms and Mom-in-laws have been making which not only help in lactation but also in reviving the new mother’s health and body. Other than that, methi sprouts or methi tea are also liked by many. - Garden cress seeds/Halim
It contains phytochemicals that resemble estrogen. They are packed with several essential nutrients like protein, calcium, beta-carotene and ascorbic acid. It is a great immunity booster and stimulates milk production.
How to consume: Halim should be soaked overnight and then cooked with water. Add grated fresh coconut and jaggery to make a sweet porridge and have it as breakfast. - Broken wheat/ Dalia
North of India considers dalia to be one of the best lactation promoters. A new mother is given dalia porridge everyday for breakfast.
How to consume: Dalia kheer and dalia upma is what I had very frequently. It tastes well and is very good for health. - Fennel seeds/ Saunf
Fennel seeds are a great digestive. They are packed with Vitamin C and help reduce gases. They are essential for new mothers and also for babies to reduce colic. They help in promoting lactation as well.
How to consume: Fennel seeds can be consumed as a mouth freshner or added to veggies and salads for its unique flavor. I used to consume fennel tea after every meal to make sure the food I eat is digested and baby doesn’t get colic.
These galactogogues are easy to acquire, prepare and wil definitely help you. Make sure you exclusively feed your baby for 6 months of their age and upto 2+ years until you wean them. Wishing all new mothers a happy and healthy post-partum recovery.
Disclaimer: These suggestions are for BF and expecting moms but if you have any complications or allergies, please confirm with your doctor before consuming anything.
blog is a part of #LBWP – Let’s Blog with PRI, Season 2. You can also check out blogs written by my fellow bloggers Hansa and Avin.
Hosted By :
Prisha Lalwani
Mummasaurus.com
IG: @mummasauruss
FB: /mummasaurus1
My World with Eira 
Learnt a new word today – galactogogues! These are all easy to do and I wish I had this post when I was feeding my bub. Will share with some new moms I know..
LikeLiked by 1 person
I had no idea about galactogogues till now. It’s a nice read for someone who did not know the word and what importance it has. I do not have kids but my friends have and I will send this post to them as well.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Loved your post. I had shatavari when I was actively Breastfeeding and it worked so well for me.
LikeLiked by 1 person
I had my share of advice too and few were really helpful, like trying Methi and Saunf regularly. A helpful post for new moms!
LikeLiked by 1 person
Great post for nursing moms and soon to be moms. I’ve also had a lot of satavri and my mil also use to make em eat Methi ka ladoos and also gaund ke ladoos. How I hated them 🤦♀️ but had to gulp them down nevertheless.
LikeLiked by 1 person
this is great list and I had used most of these during my breastfeeding time. shatavari and daliya works best and have a great positive effect on lactation.
LikeLiked by 1 person
The list of galactagogues that you have mentioned is great not only for lactation but have so many other health benefits. And the best part is that most of them are easily available in our homes.
LikeLiked by 1 person
When a mother is breastfeeding, she also needs to include galactagogues in her diet. And you mentioned everything. Thanks for sharing this informative article with us. This is very helpful for new moms.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Very helpful and well written article definitely a must read for new mothers
LikeLiked by 1 person
Yes, all these ingredients are super foods for new mom. galactogogues is a new word for me.
LikeLiked by 1 person
A great, helpful post again. My MIL had adviced me to have saunf or fennel.. Helped me good during my time of breast feeding.
LikeLiked by 1 person
A very informative read. The one thing which I would like to add further that adequate rest and sleep is also very important for every breastfeeding mother. The more she relaxes, the better she will be able to feed. It will increase milk production naturally.
LikeLiked by 1 person
All expecting moms should read this post I believe. Never knew what galactogogues meant until I stumbled to your well-written post. I will definitely ask a few of my friends who are in the family way to read this post.
LikeLiked by 1 person
A very informative and helpful post for every breastfeeding mom. This phase takes a toll of mother’s health.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Super helpful post, will share it with my friends who are in this stage! Thanks so much
LikeLiked by 1 person
Woah! That’s a new and a very Interesting word!
Learned something new today 😍
Great post 👍🏼
LikeLiked by 1 person
Very informative post for all new mothers out there, I have also followed almost everything mentioned above like shatavari,dalia, methi seeds, fennel seeds only Halim is something very new to me good to know about it here.
LikeLiked by 1 person
This blog should be titled as “Daadi maa ke nuske”- because our ancient wisdom has ben successfully portrayed here. Loved the no-chemicals and all natural solutions you have mentioned – I have used shatavari and daliya – they help a lot! Thank you for this fab post!
LikeLiked by 1 person
This is helpful article as women need to have right ingredients to get essential nutrition. My bhabhi takes shatavri.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Wow this post is a must read for all the new moms who are facing challenges.
I would definitely share this post .
LikeLiked by 1 person
This is really an important topic and informative post for all new moms. Loved these tips will share with my bhabi.
LikeLiked by 1 person
This is really very important and informative post you have shared. New moms always face this issue with the baby .
LikeLiked by 1 person