Ayurveda advocates that breastfeeding is beneficial for the health of both mother and baby. Breastfeeding shields babies and lowers risks of diseases such as asthma, allergies, respiratory diseases, ear infections, diarrhea, etc. Breastfeeding is a significant source of nutrition for babies as it provides antibodies, vitamins, proteins, and fat.
While it is common knowledge that breastfeeding is good for the child’s health, it is also true that it is good for the mother’s health as well. Breastfeeding assists in faster loss of pregnancy weight burn extra calories and releases hormone oxytocin – which helps in returning the uterus to its pre-pregnancy size. Also, breastfeeding is known to reduce the risk of breast and ovarian cancer.
But many a time, breastfeeding mothers face some challenges like low milk flow, irritation, breast pain, etc. The most common challenge being the reduced flow of milk.
There are easy remedies and tips in Ayurveda for a good flow of mother's milk. Here are a few dietary recommendations:
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Fennel Seeds and Fenugreek Seeds – Both are a great way to increase milk production for breastfeeding mothers as they both enhance the level of estrogen in the body which is a hormone that helps in producing milk. Fennel Seeds can be infused in hot water to make tea, one can add honey as per taste to sweeten it. The tea can be taken a couple of times in a day or one can opt for having a spoonful of seeds a few times a day. Fenugreek Seeds can also be infused with water and taken two to three times a day.
Shatavari – This Ayurvedic herb is found to be very effective to overcome low milk supply in nursing mothers as it regulates and maintains the hormonal balance in the body. One may take this herb by mixing it in water.
Cinnamon – commonly found in Indian household kitchens, Cinnamon is another very effective ingredient for increasing milk. It may be taken for a month or two to see the difference. One may take it easily by mixing the powder in water.
Cumin Seeds – another common item in the Indian kitchen is extremely effective in curing low milk production. A nursing mother facing this challenge can mix a teaspoon of cumin seeds with some sugar and have this with warm milk before going to bed.
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Garlic and Ginger – simply including ginger and garlic in the daily diet can solve the problem faced by the mother.
Anise – this Ayurvedic herb should be infused in water with honey to taste and be safely consumed two to three cups a day. It not only contains estrogen properties but also clears blocked milk ducts to increase the flow.
Drumsticks and Basil – consuming fresh drumstick juice with half a glass of milk every day for a month is an effective cure. Boil 5-6 basil leaves in a saucepan for 2 minutes, simmer and let it steep for about five minutes. Strain the water, add some honey and drink it. Recommended for twice a day for a few months.
Masoor Daal – regular consumption of masoor daal with a pinch of salt and a teaspoon of ghee is recommended.
Carrots and Beets – including carrot and beet salad to the nursing mother’s diet can be quite helpful.
Almonds – a very simple and easy way to help nursing mothers is to eat daily 5 to 6 almonds which have been soaked overnight. It is a good practice even if the mother is not having a problem.
Along with careful diet plan, an active lifestyle is also recommended. Heavy exercises and workout does not affect the milk flow but is not found to be ideal. Low impact fitness routines like Yoga, Pilates, and Aerobics are more advisable. Staying hydrated is the most important.
(With inputs from Dr. Archana Linto, NirogStreet)
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