If you’re struggling with issues relating to your milk supply, we highly recommend reading our blog, ‘5 Signs of Low Milk Supply (And What To Do About It)’. In this blog, we’re going to chat about galactagogues! But first, what are they?
What are galactagogues?
A galactagogue is a substance that promotes the production of breast milk in lactating women. These substances can be herbs, foods, or medications that stimulate the hormone prolactin, which is responsible for milk production. Galactagogues can be useful for women who are experiencing low milk supply or struggling to maintain an adequate milk supply for their infant. They can also be beneficial for adoptive mothers or mothers who have undergone breast surgery and still want to breastfeed. Galactagogues can help to increase milk production and ensure that infants receive the essential nutrients they need for growth and development.
Are galactagogues backed up by science?
Galactagogues have been used for centuries to promote lactation in nursing mothers, and many traditional practices suggest that certain foods, herbs, or medications can increase milk production. However, while some studies have shown promising results, the scientific evidence supporting galactagogues is limited.
That’s why it is important for breastfeeding mothers to speak with their midwife, IBCLC or healthcare provider before using any galactagogue, as some substances may have negative effects on both the mother and bub particularly fenugreek which should be avoided if you have a thyroid condition.
More on brewers yeast (we know that caught your attention!)
Brewers yeast is a type of yeast commonly used in beer-making and baking. It is also a popular galactagogue that has been used for many years to increase milk production in breastfeeding women. Brewers yeast is a rich source of nutrients, including B vitamins and protein, which are essential for milk production. It may also contain compounds that may stimulate the release of the hormone prolactin, which is responsible for milk production. Studies have shown that incorporating brewers yeast into a lactating mother's diet may lead to an increase in milk supply and improved infant weight gain. Additionally, brewers yeast is often used as a natural remedy for postpartum depression and fatigue, which can help to improve a mother's overall well-being and ability to breastfeed. And with this, we present to you THE MILK PANTRY!
What is the Milk Pantry?
In the words of Sheridyn-Leye H, “Yummiest cookie mixes that take the hassle out of making them from scratch! No nasties and preservatives.”
The Milk Pantry is has been carefully designed to bring mamas all around Australia much-deserved support and help to increase milk supply, naturally! By using the all-time favourite galactagogue brewers yeast, the Milk Pantry have put together a bunch of yummy and easy-to-use premixes to make your breastfeeding journey just that much easier. By using brewers yeast as a key ingredient in all of the products, there’s no denying the absolute benefits of whipping up a tray of delicious Chocolate Chip Cookies and calling it Mummy’s Medicine so the kids and your partner of friends can leave it alone [wink wink].
With kids parties, holidays and family gatherings so near, we thought we’d spoil you and present our wonderful Chocolate with Benefits Bundle so that you can make Milkbar Breastpumps your one-stop-shop for yummy treats that can still be ‘homemade’ and nutritious! The range also includes a selection of flavour options, as well as Gluten Free, Dairy Free, Plant Based and Double Strength options to cater to all types of Mamas!
In fact, their products are so delicious, we even make them ourselves! And boy - believe me when I tell you it’s SO easy to make!
How to make the perfect lactation cookie
Start by laying out all your ingredients:
1 pack of premix
1 egg
¼ cup of butter
Mix until combined
Bake as per boxed instructions
….and that’s it! Easy peasy lemon squeezy! And just because we KNOW you’ll want to add these to your cart, find the link to shop here.
And here’s how you make that delectable lactation brownie
It’s even EASIER! As always, lay out all of your ingredients and follow the boxed instructions:
1 pack of premix
2 eggs
2 teaspoons of water
Mix until combined
Bake as per boxed instructions
…and there you have the perfect lactation brownies! Of course you’ll want to have these on tap too, so we highly recommend buying a few - just in case ;). Shop it here.
The Milkbar team had a blast cooking and sampling some of The Milk Pantry Range. The Brownies were our collective favourite!
So will these lactation cookies and lactation brownies help me lactate?
According to all the 5-star reviews, it’ll most certainly aid in lactation! However, if you have (and still do) struggle with low milk supply for a prolonged period of time, we highly recommend consulting your midwife, an IBCLC or your healthcare provider.
What can I do to further educate myself of increasing milk supply?
There are steps you can take to increase your supply. The first and most important thing to remember with breastfeeding is that demand equals supply. The more you feed your baby or pump, the more milk you will produce. You can read all about it in our blog, ‘Increasing Milk Supply: How Much is Enough?’. You could also try power pumping which mimics a baby that is cluster feeding and going through a growth spurt i.e. feeding A LOT in a short space of time. By using your breast pump to mimic this pattern, you'll repeatedly empty your breasts, encouraging your body to produce more milk.
Indulge where you want and don’t forget to enjoy the moments shared. We hope you enjoy the Milk Pantry just as much as we do! Keep us updated by tagging us @milkbarbreastpumps on Instagram when you shake and bake your goodies!
As always, if you ever need further support, please feel free to reach out to our team at info@milkbarbreastpumps.com.au. Always seek professional and certified medical advice from your healthcare providers for unique support.
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