How to Make More Breast Milk and Increase Your Supply

Sometimes supplementing your baby with just one bottle a day can decrease your milk supply.

When you make the decision to breastfeed, you don't usually expect that your body won't be able to make enough breast milk to nourish your baby. When that occasionally happens, it can be very discouraging. First, evaluate whether your milk truly isn't enough. If your baby is producing six to eight wet diapers a day, she is likely getting enough milk. But if you are having to return to work, or are facing other complications that are decreasing your milk supply, there are strategies for increasing it again.

Things You'll Need

• Water
• Oatmeal
• Rest
• Fenugreek or other herbs

Instructions

1. Drink enough water throughout the day. You need at least 64 ounces of water, but drink more if possible. Don't substitute excessive amounts of coffee, sodas or other processed drinks; your body can't use those beverages the same way. A big part of breast milk is water. If you aren't drinking enough, you will see a decrease in your breast milk supply. In the morning fill up water bottles equivalent to 64 ounces and sip them throughout the day.

2. Nurse as frequently as possible, even up to every hour to an hour and half, if your baby will do so. The more your baby takes in, the more your breasts will produce. Have your baby thoroughly empty each breast, which encourages increased milk production.

3. Try eating oatmeal for breakfast. It may sound like an old wive's tale, but some women do find that their ability to produce milk is increased on the mornings they eat oatmeal. While there is no scientific evidence to back up this claim, oatmeal is healthy, supplying iron and other nutrients nursing mothers may be lacking. Maintaining a healthy diet is necessary to producing adequate milk.

4. Get lots of rest. If you aren't properly rested, your body cannot recharge, which will hinder your breast milk production. Nap when your baby naps. Get someone else to help with the housework, if possible.

5. Try an herb such as fenugreek. Fenugreek is a plant that has been used for centuries in middle eastern countries. When taken in pill form, usually three times a day, it can help increase breast milk supply within one to three days. Many women have found that fenugreek works wonders, but consult with your doctor before taking it, since fenugreek can affect blood sugar levels. There are other herbs to try that may be more appropriate for your situation.

Tips & Warnings

• If you are still concerned, contact the lactation specialist at your hospital for individual guidance and additional suggestions.

References

• Dr. Jay Gordon: Mother’s Milk, How to Increase Your Supply
• BabyCenter: Can the herb fenugreek increase a mom's milk supply?