Exploring the Benefits of Galactogogues for Breastfeeding Mothers

Breastfeeding is a beautiful and natural process that provides numerous benefits for both baby and mother. However, some mothers may face challenges in maintaining an adequate milk supply. In such cases, galactogogues come to the rescue. In this blog, we will delve into the world of galactogogues and uncover their unique benefits for breastfeeding mothers.

Did you know? It is highly recommended by the World Health Organization (WHO) that mothers breastfeed their infants for the first six months of their lives, and that supplemental breastfeeding should continue for at least two years.

Breast milk is widely considered the optimal food source for newborns up to one year of age. It provides essential nutrients, antibodies, and promotes healthy growth and development. However exclusive breastfeeding is not without challenges.

Many factors can influence a mother's overall milk production, including maternal pain, illness, the balance of time when returning to work, and anxiety or emotional stress. In India, our mothers or grandmothers come to rescue to advise new mothers to take galactogogues to enhance their breast milk supply.

What do we mean by “Galactogogues”

Galactogogues are substances that promote or increase the production of breast milk in lactating individuals. These substances can be of various types, including herbal remedies, medications, and dietary supplements. In this document, we will explore the different types of galactogogues and their potential benefits.

The word “galactagogues” comes from the Greek “galacta,” meaning milk.

The Role of Galactogogues:

Galactogogues refer to substances that are believed to increase milk production in lactating women. These substances can be herbs, foods, or medications that have been traditionally used for generations. While their effectiveness may vary from person to person, they are often sought after as a natural remedy for low milk supply.

Understanding the Science of Herb-based and Dietary Galactogogues:

Herb-based Galactogogues: Herbal galactogogues are derived from plants and have been used for centuries to support lactation. Some commonly used herbal galactogogues include:

1. Fenugreek seeds: Fenugreek seeds have long been used in Indian cuisine and traditional medicine. They contain phytoestrogens, which are plant compounds that mimic the effects of estrogen in the body. This can potentially stimulate the production of prolactin, a hormone responsible for milk synthesis.
   
   
2. Fennel seeds: Fennel seeds are known for their aromatic flavor and are commonly used in Indian cooking. They are believed to have galactogogue properties by promoting the release of prolactin and increasing breast milk volume.
   
   
3. Blessed Thistle: Blessed thistle is another herb often used in galactogogues. It is believed to stimulate mammary glands and increase milk supply.
   
   
4. Ginger: Ginger is believed to help a mother heal from childbirth. It’s also thought to be a galactagogue that stimulates milk production.One study published in 2016 concluded that the use of ginger as a natural method to increase breast milk in the early postpartum period appears promising

Food-based Galactogogues:

Certain foods and beverages are known to have galactogogue properties, which can help increase milk production. Some common dietary galactogogues include:

1. Oats: Oats are a nutritional powerhouse and are rich in iron, fiber, and complex carbohydrates. The presence of Avenanthramides in oats has also been shown to increase nitric oxide production, which in turn increases blood flow to the cells. This increases the delivery of nutrients and oxygen to your organs, including your mammary gland, as a result of which breast milk production is improved.
   
   
2. Garlic: Garlic is not only a flavorful ingredient but also considered a galactogogue. It is believed to stimulate milk production and enhance lactation.

Interesting Fact

"Garlic is also known to impart odor and flavor to breast milk when consumed and infants tend to breast-feed longer on such milk"

1. Carrots: Carrots are packed with essential nutrients and are thought to have a positive effect on breast milk production. They are rich in beta-carotene, which gets converted into vitamin A, an important nutrient for lactation.
   
   
2. Whole Millets: Whole millets like bajra and ragi are known to be beneficial for increasing milk supply in lactating mothers. These millets, also known as galactogogues, can play a significant role in promoting lactation and ensuring an adequate milk production.
   
   
3. Nuts: There is also evidence that raw nuts, including cashews, walnuts, and macadamia nuts, can support milk production.

While galactogogues are commonly advised in India to enhance breast milk production, it's important to note that scientific evidence supporting their effectiveness varies. Different individuals may respond differently to galactogogues, and it's always advisable to consult with a healthcare professional before incorporating them into your routine. Remember, a healthy balanced diet, adequate hydration, and frequent breastfeeding or pumping are crucial for maintaining a healthy milk supply.