Breastfeeding has many valuable benefits that cannot be estimated in value. It is full of benefits for both the child and the mother, which prompts many mothers to try breastfeeding. It is important to continue breastfeeding for a sufficient period to ensure that children benefit from it. Therefore, mothers are always looking for effective ways to increase breast milk production. We will review together some of these solutions through the Dalili Medical website in the following lines.

Does oats help increase breast milk?

 

Yes, oats are considered one of the foods that contribute to enhancing breast milk production.

Is radish useful for increasing breast milk?

 

Doctors advise avoiding eating radish during breastfeeding, as it may cause bloating in the baby's stomach and stomach pain.

When can we consider milk insufficient?

 

- If the baby cries immediately after breastfeeding.

- If the baby puts his hands in his mouth and does not sleep after breastfeeding.

- If the baby shows signs of constipation with dry stool.

- If the baby does not gain weight, especially after two weeks of birth.

When can we consider milk sufficient?

 

- If the baby sleeps after breastfeeding for two hours or more.

- If the baby regains his birth weight before the end of the second week.

- When the mother feels her breasts are full before breastfeeding and notices that they are empty afterward.

- When the baby breastfeeds from one breast, and milk flows from the other breast automatically at the time of breastfeeding.

**Benefits of natural breast milk:**

 

Breast milk is considered the best choice for feeding the baby during the first year of his life, as it contributes to the growth of the baby's cells and the development of his various organs. It is also compatible with the baby's stomach, which facilitates the digestion process and makes it acceptable to him.

Breast milk contains substances that fight bacteria and germs harmful to the digestive system, as it prepares the stomach and intestinal juices to create a suitable environment for the growth of types of beneficial bacteria that fight harmful bacteria in the body.

Unlike formula milk, breast milk does not cause allergies to the baby, such as vomiting, diarrhea or skin infections. When the baby vomits, he vomits the amount of milk, not its type.

Breast milk also contains many enzymes that facilitate the digestion process, in addition to vitamins that enhance the child's immunity against diseases and epidemics that he may be exposed to in his early days.

Breast milk contains antibiotics that help reduce the infant's exposure to intestinal and respiratory infections. It also reduces the risk of high cholesterol, atherosclerosis, and diabetes in adulthood.

Breastfed children suffer from tooth decay less than others, due to breast milk containing a low percentage of sugar.

### Breast milk components

 

Breast milk generally consists of the following components:

- **Water percentage**: 87%

- **Fat percentage**: 3.8%

- **Protein percentage**: 1.0%

- **Lactose percentage**: 7%

The composition of breast milk changes over time to meet the changing needs of the child as he grows. There are also differences in the composition depending on the stage of breastfeeding (the age of the infant), the mother's diet, and her health.

In early lactation, the protein content of breast milk ranges from 1.4-1.6 g per 100 ml, decreasing to 0.8-1.0 g per 100 ml after 3 to 4 months, and reaching 0.7-0.8 g per 100 ml after 6 months. Breast milk contains two types of protein: casein and whey.

Whey components constitute between 50% and 80% of the total protein in breast milk, while the proportion of casein ranges between 20% and 50% depending on the stage of lactation, with the proportion of casein increasing in the late lactation stage.

What are the signs of breast fullness with milk?

 

Here are the most prominent signs that indicate breast fullness with milk:

1. A change in the baby's sucking pattern, as he moves from fast sucking to regular sucking with swallowing of milk, at a rate of approximately one sucking every second.

2. Some mothers feel a tingling or pin-like sensation in the breast.

3. A sudden feeling that the breast has become full with milk.

4. Milk leaks from the breast while the baby is breastfeeding from the other breast.

5. The mother feels full sometimes.

You should also know that the flow of milk and the fullness of the breast depend on several factors, including your feelings such as anxiety, stress and extreme fatigue. Therefore, relaxing while breastfeeding can help improve milk production.

**Signs of the breast being full of milk more than the baby needs**

 

Sometimes, the breast may produce large amounts of milk that exceed the baby's needs. Here are the most prominent signs that help you distinguish between them and the other signs mentioned above:

1. **Not emptying the breast**: If the breast never empties of milk and fills quickly after the end of the feeding, this may be an indication of very large or normal production. It is important to consult a doctor to find out the reason.

2. **The baby is moving away from the breast**: If the baby keeps his mouth away from the breast while breastfeeding, this may mean that he is getting a large amount of milk that he cannot swallow.

3. **Milk leakage**: If you notice milk leaking from the other breast in large quantities during breastfeeding, or milk coming out of the baby's mouth, this may be a sign of a full breast.

4. **Baby suffering from gas**: If the baby suffers from gas significantly, he may show signs of discomfort such as arching his back while crying or changing facial expressions.

5. **Frequent spitting**: If the baby spits milk frequently after or during breastfeeding, this may be due to his inability to handle the large amount of milk in his stomach.

6. **Mastitis**: If you suffer from mastitis or blocked milk ducts, you may show signs of inflammation such as pain, bloating, and high body temperature.

Remember that consulting a doctor in these cases is essential to get the appropriate guidance.

**Signs of breast fullness with more milk than the baby needs**

 

Sometimes, the breast may produce quantities ofMilk exceeds the baby's needs. Here are the most prominent signs that help you distinguish between it and the other signs mentioned above:

1. **Not emptying the breast**: If the breast never empties of milk and fills up quickly after the end of the feeding, this may be evidence of a large or normal production. It is important to consult a doctor to find out the reason.

2. **The baby is moving away from the breast**: If the baby is moving away from the breast during feeding, this may mean that he is getting a large amount of milk that he cannot swallow.

3. **Leaking milk**: If you notice milk leaking from the other breast in large quantities during feeding, or milk coming out of the baby's mouth, this may be a sign of a full breast.

4. **The baby is suffering from gas**: If the baby is suffering from gas significantly, he may show signs of discomfort such as arching his back while crying or changing his facial expressions.

5. **Frequent spitting**: If the baby spits milk frequently after or during feeding, this may be a result of his inability to handle the large amount of milk.

6. **Mastitis**: If you suffer from mastitis or blocked milk ducts, you may notice signs of inflammation such as pain, bloating, and fever.

It is important to remember that in these cases, consulting a doctor is necessary to get the right guidance.

**How ​​much fluid should I drink while breastfeeding?**

 

Drink fluids when you feel thirsty, and increase the amount if your urine is dark yellow. You can drink a glass of water or any other beverage every time you breastfeed your baby.

However, you should be careful with juices and sugary drinks, as consuming large amounts of sugar can lead to weight gain, which may spoil your efforts to lose the weight gained during pregnancy. Consuming large amounts of caffeine can also cause problems. So, try not to exceed two to three cups (16 to 24 ounces) of caffeinated beverages per day. The presence of caffeine in breast milk may make your baby nervous or have difficulty sleeping.

Can my diet affect my baby’s health and cause irritation or an allergic reaction?

 

Your diet may contain certain foods or drinks that may irritate or cause an allergic reaction in your baby. If you notice irritation, rash, diarrhea, or wheezing in your baby immediately after breastfeeding, it is best to consult a specialist doctor.

If you suspect that your diet contains ingredients that may negatively affect your baby, it is recommended to avoid consuming those foods or drinks for up to a week, to monitor any changes in your baby’s behavior. It may also be helpful to avoid certain foods such as garlic, onions, or cabbage.

**Does halva boost breast milk production?**

 

Halva may help boost lactation, and it also helps improve mood, relieve depression, and reduce feelings of fatigue.

“Halva is a useful product, but it is high in calories and may cause allergies, so it is best to consume it in moderation and avoid overusing it.”

**Does fenugreek increase breast milk?**

 

Yes, fenugreek is considered one of the factors that increase breast milk production.

**Do sugars affect breast milk?**

 

No, the amount of sugars a mother consumes does not affect her milk production.

**Do dates enhance breast milk production?**

 

Yes, dates help increase the hormone prolactin, which contributes to increasing breast milk.

**Herbs and drinks to increase breast milk quickly**

 

Before considering using medications to increase milk production, you can explore herbs that enhance milk production. There are many popular herbal remedies, and here are some herbs that may help increase breast milk production:

- **Fenugreek**: Fenugreek is a traditional herb that has been used for generations to increase breast milk production, and it is a quick and effective option during the postpartum and breastfeeding period.

- **Blessed thistle**: Blessed thistle has been used since the Middle Ages, and despite the lack of scientific information about its effectiveness and safety in quickly increasing milk production, many mothers prefer to use it.

- **Fennel seeds**: You can prepare fennel seed tea by soaking them in hot water for a few minutes, as these seeds help increase breast milk quickly.

- **Milk Thistle**: This herb is effective in detoxifying the body and acts as a liver tonic. It also contains estrogen, which helps improve lactation and increase milk production.

- **Shatavari**: This herb is used to help women overcome lactation problems, as it is useful in enhancing milk production.

**Cinnamon**: Cinnamon is an aromatic herb with a distinctive flavor, and many breastfeeding mothers use it to increase milk flow. Cinnamon can be taken by adding a pinch of its powder to warm water, or half a teaspoon of honey, or adding it to milk, or drinking cinnamon boiled.

**Cumin seeds**: Aromatic cumin seeds are an effective treatment to increase the amount of milk. You can mix a teaspoon of cumin seeds with some sugar and eat it with warm milk before bed.

**Goat Street:** This herb belongs to the same family of plants as fenugreek, and helps promote the growth of mammary glands and increase breast milk production. It is best taken in the form of dried capsules, as the green herb may be toxic.

**Ginger:** In addition to its flavor and many health benefits, ginger is one of the best options to enhance breast milk production. You can use fresh ginger in cooking or drink ginger tea.

**Anise:** Anise helps open blocked milk ducts and increase breast milk production. You can prepare anise tea by soaking some anise seeds in hot water, then adding sugar or honey as desired.

Herb A**Lemon balm** is an important herb that can be boiled to support breastfeeding in a healthy way. It is enough to drink one cup of lemon balm daily, and the oil of this herb can be used and added to some other useful recipes and drinks.

**Elderberry** is an important herb to support breastfeeding and increase breast milk production. This useful drink can also be incorporated into various diets to help with weight loss and promote overall health. One of the distinctive recipes that can be used is to drink this drink with a little honey.

**Grand nettle** The grand nettle is characterized by its pungent taste and high iron content, in addition to being rich in vitamins and minerals. Eating this plant after childbirth helps treat anemia, fight fatigue, and increase milk production.

**Alfalfa** Alfalfa is known for its high nutritional value, as it contains antioxidants, vitamins, minerals, proteins, and fiber. It also contributes to enhancing milk production

**Kharfish** Kharfish is considered one of the herbs that helps increase the secretion of the hormone prolactin, which leads to increased milk production.

**Coconut oil** Coconut oil is characterized by its rich composition of a number of fatty acids and omega-3 acids, which contributes to increasing milk production and makes it more fatty and nutritious.

**Black seed** Black seed is considered one of the effective ingredients, as it enhances the mother's immunity and increases milk secretion significantly. For additional benefits, you can mix a teaspoon of black seed with a spoonful of honey and a cup of yogurt, and eat this mixture for breakfast or dinner.

Lactobacillus pills available in pharmacies***

 

There are many medications that may require a prescription, which have been used to increase milk production, although they are not specifically designed for this purpose. Among the most prominent milk-promoting pills are:

Herbana pills:** These capsules consist of safe herbal extracts that work to increase milk production quickly, and are often considered a better option than using medications not intended for this purpose for mothers.

**Sekem herbal mixture to increase milk production:** This mixture is a herbal mixture available in wick bags, where it is soaked in hot water and then consumed to enhance breast milk production. Although it is available in pharmacies, it is not a medicine in the medical sense, but rather drinks that contribute to increasing milk production quickly.

**Sulpiride:** Sulpiride is primarily used to treat schizophrenia, and is an antipsychotic and antidepressant. In addition, it raises prolactin levels in the blood, which may help enhance breast milk production. This medicine is considered safe for mothers and infants, but it is necessary to consult a doctor or pharmacist before using it to increase milk production.

**Metoclopramide (Reglan):**Reglan is used to treat digestive disorders, and is a common medication to stimulate lactation and increase breast milk production. Results appear quickly and last as long as the medication is taken, but milk production usually decreases after stopping its use.

Metoclopramide should not be used for more than 12 weeks, and it is not recommended for those who suffer from depression, seizure disorders, asthma, or high blood pressure. Common side effects of this medication include.

Domperidone (Motilium):**Motilium is considered safer than Reglan when used to increase milk production, as it shows fewer side effects on breastfeeding mothers. It is also considered safe for long-term use to continuously enhance breast milk production.

What are the effective ways to increase breast milk production after childbirth?

 

There are several methods that have proven effective in enhancing breast milk production in breastfeeding mothers, including:

**Breastfeeding frequency:**Breastfeeding frequently helps stimulate the secretion of hormones responsible for milk production. When the breast muscles contract and push milk through the ducts, milk production increases. Breastfeeding 8 to 12 times a day is a quick way to increase your milk supply.

**Use a breast pump:** A breast pump can help increase your milk supply between feeding sessions, which helps boost your milk supply.

**Breastfeeding:**Breastfeeding between breasts helps stimulate milk production. A mother can offer her baby the second breast when the milk supply from the first breast decreases or stops.

**Breastfeeding biscuits:**If you are looking for ways to increase your milk supply, breastfeeding biscuits are a good option. These biscuits contain nutritional ingredients and herbs such as oats, yeast, and flax seeds, which help boost your milk supply.

**Eat foods, herbs, and supplements that boost your breast milk supply:**Some herbs such as fenugreek, ginger, and fennel are effective in increasing your breast milk supply, which answers the question of how to boost your milk supply.

The amount of milk secreted is affected by several factors, but the most important factors are:

1. **The baby's sucking of breast milk:** The hormones prolactin and oxytocin secreted by the pituitary gland control milk secretion. Prolactin is responsible for milk production, while oxytocin helps in its production. The relationship between the baby's sucking of milk and the secretion of these hormones is a direct relationship; the more the baby sucks, the higher the hormone levels and thus the higher the amount of milk secreted. Conversely, if the baby's sucking decreases in terms of frequency or effectiveness, the amount of milk will decrease. Therefore, if we want to wean the baby, it is sufficient to stop the sucking process, which leads to the cessation of production.

To increase the amount of milk, you must make sure that your baby puts her mouth on the breast frequently, taking into account her ability to suck effectively.

2- Drinking fluids: Milk is basically a liquid, and its quantity increases with the increase in the fluids you consume, as fluids affect more thanFood water. Make sure to drink water every hour in the summer and every two hours in the winter to ensure adequate hydration.

3- Good food: It is essential to eat a balanced diet that suits your actual needs as determined by your doctor, without adding more than 500 calories to your daily needs.

4- Rest and relaxation: You should get enough sleep and rest, not less than 8 hours a day, to ensure good milk secretion.

5- Endocrine diseases, especially thyroid and pituitary, affect the lactation process. Tumors and surgeries in the breast, especially those that affect the size of the mammary glands or cause nipple ulcers, negatively affect lactation.

6- Smoking reduces the amount of milk secreted and its components.

7- Some medications may negatively affect milk secretion, so it is advisable to consult a specialist before taking any medications.

8- Birth control pills and hormonal IUDs reduce milk secretion.

Don't worry if your baby refuses to breastfeed, as it is not equivalent to breastfeeding in any way. Breast milk is better digested than formula milk, and breastfeeding requires effort from the baby, which strengthens the muscles of his jaw and makes him feel full and sleepy. Breastfeeding also strengthens the bond between you and your baby. Studies have shown that babies who are breastfed are less likely to suffer from obesity, allergies, constipation, and some tumors.

Breastfeeding has many benefits for the mother, as it contributes to losing weight after birth and reduces the risk of breast and uterine cancer.

* To increase the amount of milk secreted, you can follow the following tips:

- Make sure to drink enough water.

- Repeat the breastfeeding process throughout the day and night, and you can breastfeed your baby at night without having to wake her up.

- If your baby suffers from weak mouth muscles, you can hold the breast with the palm of your hand instead of using two fingers, and press it gently, with the possibility of placing warm compresses on it before starting breastfeeding.

- Make sure that the baby grabs the entire brown part (areola) and not just the tip of the nipple (nipple).

- Breastfeeding should last for at least 20 minutes, and preferably longer.

- Rest and relaxation are essential for milk production, so make sure to get enough sleep.

- Breastfeeding should be complete and alone without any complementary foods for 6 months.

- Feed your baby whenever she wants (feeding on demand) and give her the time she needs.

- You should let the baby completely empty the milk from the first breast before offering the second breast. If it is the next feeding, we start with what we finished with and then continue with the first breast. We can start with the right breast and then move to the left, and in the next feeding we start with the left and then return to the right, and so on. This way, the baby will get the milk at the beginning of the breast (Foremilk) which contains a low percentage of fat and helps reduce the feeling of thirst, then move to the milk at the end of the feeding (Hind milk) which is thicker and rich in fats and sugars. This ensures that the baby feels full first and then gains weight. If the baby is not fully breastfed from each breast, he may not get all the necessary nutrients.

- If the mother is working or absent from the baby, she can pump milk from her breast manually or using an electric pump, then put it in a sterile feeding bottle and store it in the refrigerator for use during her absence. Also, the newborn baby may have a weak sucking ability, so it is preferable to empty the breast after breastfeeding to increase milk production.

- It is preferable not to give her a pacifier.

Here are some daily nutritional tips:

- Make sure to drink water every hour in the summer and every two hours in the winter.

- Drink 3 to 4 cups of milk daily, in addition to a cup of yogurt.

- Drink a cup of fennel and a cup of fenugreek or caraway daily.

- Eat a large plate of green salad consisting of 4 colors.

- Eat one egg daily.

- Make sure to eat a variety of fruits.

- Eat moderate amounts of lean meat or fish, equivalent to a quarter of a chicken.

- Don't forget sweet potatoes.

- Eat starches and legumes in moderate amounts without excess.

It is important to realize that food components are transmitted to your baby through your milk, so it is preferable to avoid the following:

- Soft drinks, as they may lead to osteoporosis in the mother and soft bones in the baby, in addition to some of them containing caffeine.

- Try to reduce your intake of tea and coffee as much as possible, as they contain caffeine that may cause hyperactivity and insomnia.

- Stay away from foods rich in salt and spices, as they may affect the taste of the milk and your daughter may reject it.

- You may need some nutritional supplements after consulting a doctor.

To be sure that your daughter is receiving enough nutrition, she should:

- Gain normal weight according to growth charts, as her weight is expected to increase at a rate ranging between 100 to 200 grams per week, with some differences between children.

- Wet her diapers six to eight times a day.

Its appearance, activity, and color are normal with smooth skin.

- The color of the stool tends to be yellowish and somewhat soft.

**Foods that boost breast milk production**

 

**Beets and carrots** These red and orange vegetables contain beta-carotene, which plays an important role in breast milk production. In addition, beets and carrots provide additional benefits by containing iron and essential minerals.

**Dark leafy greens** Dark leafy green vegetables are an excellent source of enzymes, vitamins, and essential minerals. Options to try include: kale, watercress, spinach, Swiss chard, and collard greens. These vegetables also contain phytoestrogen compounds that may support lactation.

**Green papaya** Green papaya is considered in AsiaRich in enzymes, vitamins, and minerals, papaya is a particularly good source of vitamin A and vitamin C. A small papaya contains about 100 milligrams of vitamin C. For breastfeeding women, the recommended daily intake is 115 to 120 mg of vitamin C. It should be noted that green papaya is an unripe fruit and should be cooked slowly until it is soft enough to eat.

**Oats** Oats are a well-known comfort food, in addition to their known antibiotic and anti-inflammatory properties. It is believed that eating comfort foods may stimulate a woman’s body to release oxytocin, a hormone that plays a role in milk production.

Other grains that may boost milk production include millet, brown rice, and barley. Legumes such as chickpeas and lentils are also helpful.

**Brewer’s Yeast** Brewer’s yeast, also known as nutritional yeast, is a good source of protein and iron. It also contains phytoestrogens, which may contribute to breast tissue health and support lactation.

**Nuts** Raw nuts, such as cashews, walnuts, and macadamia nuts, are foods that are believed to support milk production.

**Sesame seeds** Sesame seeds, whether black or light, are a rich plant source of calcium, in addition to tahini, which is a product derived from these seeds.

**Fennel seeds** Fennel seeds are known to increase milk production, and some vegetables that can be eaten raw or cooked may also contribute to this matter.

**Spinach and beetroot leaves** Spinach and beetroot leaves are rich sources of iron, calcium, and folic acid, which are essential elements for restoring energy for weak mothers after childbirth, which contributes to promoting the health of the child. These leaves also contain compounds that help in detoxification, in addition to spinach containing phytochemicals that may contribute to preventing breast cancer. You can add these leaves to soup or combine them with dough for lunch.

**Garlic** Garlic is considered one of the best foods that enhance milk production in mothers. It also adds a distinctive flavor to your daily diet and enhances the health benefits associated with it. Garlic also helps babies who suffer from colic. If you do not prefer the taste of garlic, you can use flavorless garlic supplements, which provide you with all the benefits of regular garlic.

**Salmon** Salmon is considered one of the beneficial foods that not only enhances lactation and breast milk production, but also enriches milk with essential nutrients. It contains important compounds for the health of the mother and her child, such as DHA and Omega 3, which are considered among the most beneficial elements for both.

**Pumpkin** Pumpkin is one of the essential plants that support human health on several levels. The mother’s consumption of pumpkin in her meals is considered very important for her health and the health of her child. Pumpkin contributes to increasing the quantity and quality of breast milk, and improves its richness in the nutrients necessary for the child, thanks to its ability to help the body retain water, which is an essential element for breastfeeding.

**Cumin seeds** Cumin seeds are considered one of the most important foods necessary to support the digestive process, as they help relieve constipation, acidity, and bloating. It also plays a major role in supporting breastfeeding, as it contains vitamins and calcium. Therefore, cumin seeds are frequently used as an aid to milk production.

**Basil** Previous generations used basil as a means of increasing breast milk production, as it enhances milk production and has a calming effect, in addition to improving bowel movements and increasing appetite in a healthy way. It can be eaten with meals or added to tea to benefit from its relaxing properties.

**Asparagus** Asparagus is a rich food source of fiber, vitamin A and vitamin K, as asparagus stimulates the hormone responsible for lactation, which increases the amount of milk. You can steam it or fry it with other vegetables to prepare a delicious snack.

Tips to increase your breast milk production***

 

Make sure your baby gets enough feedings during the day, at a rate of 8 to 12 times in 24 hours. Make sure to eat snacks frequently, every 3 to 4 hours, or between each feeding. Offer your baby the breast after feeding if he or she seems uncomfortable or relaxed. You will notice that your breasts will begin to fill with milk again within 20 to 30 minutes. Breastfeed your baby for at least 15 minutes on each breast at a time. Studies have shown that switching between breasts increases milk production. Gently massage your breasts before and during feedings. Make sure your baby is latching on correctly. Practice skin-to-skin contact with your baby, which plays an important role in increasing milk production. Use techniques to help you relax more while feeding.