Making More Breastmilk!!

As you read through I want you to notice one common theme. No machines! A pump can be a very useful tool and I am thrilled we have so many wonderful pumps available now. There are so many times when the pump is the tool of choice, however, the best way to make more milk is by using this lovely, squishy, super cool “tool” God gave you in your sweet baby. They are the most well made, efficient, easy to clean pumps available. The do not run out of battery or require electricity nor should you be losing any of their parts. Save the pumps for when you really need them and try out your baby first.

1. Bedrest- Rest and supply go hand in hand so if your worried you are running low give yourself some extra rest. Pick a good movie, a book, a few snacks and a big bottle of water and relax.

2. Nurse More Frequently- More time at the breast will mean more milk in the breast. Frequent stimulation will secrete more of the hormone needed for milk making. Avoid big gaps (2-3 hours or more) between nursing. Frequent stimulation offers more benefit when attempting to boost supply than the longevity of each feed.

3. Super-Switch Nursing- Begin breastfeeding, watching your baby for the moment where they begin to slow down. At that point, break the latch and switch to the other side. Repeat this 2, 3, or even 4 times. This offers an excellent dose of stimulation.

4. Oatmeal, oatmeal, oatmeal…enough said

5. Mama’s Milk Tea– This is found in the vitamin section of most drug stores or markets. Be sure to seep it properly. It can be a more acquired taste! For more information on herbal supplements and milk boosting foods you can go to Dr. Jack Newman’s site http://www.breastfeedinginc.ca/content.php?pagename=doc-HRMS

6. Pull the Plug- Limit or stop pacifier and bottle use. Get rid of any extra “sucks” you can. If you need to supplement, use a medicine syringe or cup. You want your baby to have his sucking needs met at the breast while you are trying to boost your supply.

7. Lactation Cookies-see recipe below and when else can you say, “I need to eat these chocolate chip cookies because it is best for my baby!”

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Mama’s Milk Making Cookies

1/2 cup butter,

1/2 cup sugar,

1/2 cup firmly packed brown sugar,

2 tablespoons water,

2 tablespoons flax seed meal,

1 eggs,

1/2 teaspoon vanilla,

1 cups flour,

1/2 teaspoon baking soda,

1/2 teaspoon salt,

2 cups oats,

2 cup chocolate chips,

3 tablespoons brewer’s yeast

Preheat oven to 350°.

Mix the flaxseed meal and water and let it sit for 5 minutes. Beat the  brown sugar, sugar, and butter. Beat in the egg, the flaxseed/water mix, and vanilla.

Sift the salt, baking soda, flour, and brewers yeast and add to the wet ingredients. Stir in the chocolate chips and the oats. Scoop onto baking sheet and bake for 12 minutes, letting the cookies set for a couple minutes before removing from the tray.

For a yummy and healthier variation on this recipe, take out the chocolate chips and add in a cup or two of raisins and some cinnamon.