Breastfeeding is an activity that’s necessary and fulfilling for both the mother and her child. Regrettably, not all women produce a generous amount of milk in the early phases of motherhood.
A great natural remedy to overcome this challenge exists: galactagogues. The term comes from the Greek words: galacta (milk) and agogos (leading). Many believe they eventually boost breast milk production.
In this blog, we’ll explore the science behind Galactagogues and how they help lactating mothers.
Table of Contents
What are Galactagogues?
Galactagogues are nutritious substances that enhance lactation in mothers. You’ll generally find them in three forms:
● Dietary Galactagogues: milk, oats, barley, brewer’s yeast
● Herbal Galactagogues: fenugreek, fennel, blessed thistle
● Pharmaceutical Galactagogues: domperidone, metoclopramide (medical supervision needed)
What is the Science Behind Galactagogues?
The science of galactagogues can only be understood if you’re familiar with the lactation process.
When a baby nurses on the mother’s nipples, the stimulation signals the mom’s brain to release two lactation-regulating hormones: prolactin and oxytocin. Prolactin produces the milk, and oxytocin releases it.
However, there’s a catch: if the mother is stressed, exhausted, or has health concerns, the process doesn’t work as smoothly, and that’s where galactagogues come into play.
Galactagogues support lactation in the following ways:
● They either increase prolactin levels or make the body feel that prolactin is being released, thereby promoting milk supply.
● Certain dietary and herbal galactagogues contain essential vitamins, minerals, and phytoestrogens. These enhance the mother’s health to promote lactation.
● Some of those increase metabolism, helping in digestion and ensuring improved nutrient absorption. This, again, promotes quality milk production.
Common Natural Sources of Galactagogues
Fenugreek
Popular in South Asia and the Middle East, fenugreek seed is an effective galactagogue. It contains phytoestrogens, a compound similar to estrogen but produced in plants. They stimulate the sweat and mammary glands, which in turn boost milk production.
Research on new mothers consuming fenugreek showed that 54% women noticed a significant spike in milk supply.
Blessed Thistle
This is usually consumed in combination with fenugreek. Blessed thistle aids in prolactin release, digestion, and blood circulation, all of which support lactation.
Fennel
Fennel seeds are a traditional Mediterranean natural supplement for lactation. Its phytoestrogens stimulate the breast tissues, helping pain-free milk flow. It also supports digestion and nourishes lactating mothers.
Oats and Barley
Another common lactation-friendly snacks and supplement are oats and barley. Reason: they have high beta-glucan content. This compound promotes prolactin levels, enhancing milk production.
Some also consume oat milk instead of the grain itself. However, if a mother doesn’t like having it regularly, she can add some hot chocolate that helps with lactation to a warm cup of oat milk. It will not only offer her nutrition but also cater to her taste buds.
Choose a hot chocolate powder that’s made using organic cacao powder, coconut sugar, and brewer’s yeast (another source of galactagogue), which is packed with antioxidants and micronutrients, and is fenugreek-free.
Milk Thistle
Milk thistle generally serves as a liver health supplement. Additionally, it contains silymarin, which helps boost prolactin levels in new mothers.
Goat’s Rue
Goat’s rue is a plant that stimulates the growth of mammary tissues. Though popular, scientific evidence is limited.
Is Galactagogue Safe?
This depends on the mother’s constitution. If taken in moderation, most herbal sources of galactagogues are safe. But some concerning issues are:
● Fenugreek may cause gas or cause the mother to smell like maple syrup.
● Fenugreek may interact with medicines and lower blood sugar levels, which is a risk for mothers getting diabetes treatment.
● An excess amount of fennel consumption may impact the baby’s health through the compounds that pass through breast milk.
● If a mother is sensitive to certain herbs, they may cause diarrhea or allergies.
● Pharmaceuticals don’t always regulate dietary galactagogues. So, it’s better to pick them from a reliable brand.
Note: Only choose reliable brands for galactagogues. Consult a maternity doctor about consuming any supplement of choice. Monitor the mother’s and baby’s reactions during the first 14 days of galactagogue consumption to check for serious side effects.
Lifestyle Tips to Enhance the Effects of Galactagogues
While galactagogues help in breast milk production and secretion, they won’t magically help a mother with lactation concerns. So, here are a few tips to help the supplement work better:
● Let the baby latch on to your breast more frequently. If your baby fusses, use a pump. This sensation will stimulate the brain to produce milk.
● Chug down plenty of water as recommended by the doctor.
● Make tasty, nutritious food your BFF, not junk food.
● Take plenty of rest and do everything possible to manage stress effectively.
● Consult lactation experts if nothing works.
Conclusion
Many new moms’ experiences say galactagogues effectively increase breast milk supply. However, results can vary, so it’s best to improve your lifestyle and consult your doctor before taking them to ensure your well-being, and maximise the benefits of galactagogues..
