New Moms & Breastfeeding
The birth of a child is also a birth of a mother. The new mom is learning , adjusting and adapting to what is needed by the baby.
The baby’s nutrition afcourse is of paramount importance and the decision to breastfeed very personal.
For those choosing the to breastfeed, the right milk supply is one of the main concerns apart from making sure the baby is latching on and getting enough milk.
Some age old natural “nuskhe” as our grandmom’s , mom’s or Jappa’s would say are a must during this time. These concoctions have been passed down by mom’s through the ages to help new mom’s with so many changes & requirements her body is going through.
The very basic of it all is that what the mama eats is what the baby gets through the breast milk and therefore, first and foremost if to have food the is fresh, easy on the stomach and less spicy (usually no red chillies).
An easy concoction of plain Jeera , Ajwain & Saunf does wonders for digestion for the mom as well as the baby. Having this 3-4 times a day really helps with overall digestion.
A daily dose of shatavari, methi seeds and moringa is known to help immensely with increasing milk supply. Shatavari & moringa are know galactagogues that are known to help with lactation.
Further, a dose of haldi is ofcourse a must. The anti-oxidant & anti-inflammatory benefits of this ingredient are well known and help the body in healing and getting back to normal.
Another addition that can help new moms with milk supply is daliya made of wheat. It is known to give the right nutrition and strength for new moms’s feeding their babies.
Tips to Increase Milk Supply:
A few tips for new mom’s getting into the rhythm of breast feeding :
- The more you nurse the more milk is produced – you could also try breast pumping while the baby is sleeping.
- While feeding the baby keep track of which breast the baby has fed from and for the next round feed from the other breast.
- Drink lots of water – recommended to drink every hour
- Eat seasonal vegetables – low on chilly and rich in turmeric and other spices.
- Eat foods known to help with lactation such as Wheat daliya, ghee, green vegetables etc
- Drink cows milk regularly as well.