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10 Lactation Supplements Every Mother Should Take
For a new mother, having sufficient breast milk supply postpartum is essential as it ensures that the baby is getting essential nutrients that are required for his proper growth and development. If your breast milk supply is less, no doubt, you will be concerned. However, many effective lactation supplements can help increase your milk supply, and not all of these supplements come in the form of capsules.
People widely believe that when a mother gets enough calories, the quality and quantity of her milk is good. However, it is not just about eating foods rich in calories. What a new mother eats is also important. If you are a breastfeeding mother, your diet influences the quality and nutritional content of your breast milk. Most women are suggested to take galactagogues as it can increase the breast milk supply. Galactagogues are herbs, foods or medications that can be consumed to increase breast milk supply. They work best in women with low prolactin levels. However, they should be used with caution as sometimes they may affect your health negatively. A new mother should take ample rest, stay well hydrated, and eat nutritious snacks and food. And lactation supplements should only be used after consulting with a doctor.
Lactation Supplements That Can Help Increase Milk Supply
Supplements from a Bottle
1. Placenta Encapsulation and Whole-food Multivitamins
The human placenta contains progesterone and is now available as capsules in the market. As the amount of progesterone is increased in the bloodstream, the milk supply also increases. Consuming placenta capsules also has other benefits like increased iron levels, mood and hormone stabilisation, and feeling of well-being. It also prepares your body for breastfeeding. The dosage of capsules will depend on your health, your difficulties with milk supply, and your sleep. Whole-food multivitamin tablets will also make sure that your body gets the essential nutrients that will help improve the supply of breast milk.
2. Prescription Medication
Domperidone is a prescription drug taken for gastrointestinal disorders, but it also helps in boosting the breast milk supply. This must be used only under medical supervision. This is not recommended to women with a history of cardiac problems. Also, before taking this medication, inform your doctor about any other medication you are taking.
Metoclopramide is also a prescription drug that can be used to treat gastrointestinal disorders and for increasing the breast milk supply. It crosses the blood-brain barrier unlike domperidone but has certain side effects like drowsiness, restlessness, fatigue, and depression. Use of this medication might increase the feelings of depression in women who already feel vulnerable. Therefore, it should only be taken after consulting with a doctor.
3. Probiotics
Probiotics help with digestion as they are good bacteria that help the body absorb nutrients more efficiently. Healthy gut flora helps in boosting breast milk production and is also necessary for your overall well-being. You will be able to find probiotic capsules at the local pharmacy, and you can take them as directed on the package. However, there is no harm in consulting with a doctor before taking probiotics.
4. Cod Liver Oil
Cod liver oil has been found to benefit both infants and the breastfeeding mother as they contain good amounts of omega-3 fatty acids and vitamin D. Omega-3 fatty acids help in brain development of the baby and in increasing breast milk production. These capsules should be taken as directed on the bottle.
Supplements from Herbs and Food
There are many herbs and foods that can assist in increasing your breast milk supply. Following are the herbs and foods you can include in your diet to increase your breast milk supply.
5. Organic Quinoa and Oats
Quinoa is a grain-like seed that is rich in protein and contains all the eight essential amino acids. It contains saponins, which the body uses as precursors for hormone production, including pituitary hormones that help in stimulating lactation. Quinoa is also a rich source of Vitamin E, potassium, selenium, zinc, magnesium, iron, riboflavin, and folate.
Oatmeal is high in fibre and is a great source of iron. For breastfeeding mothers, a bowl of oatmeal with flaxseed, cinnamon, dried berries, and walnuts is an excellent way to start the day. Oatmeal contains saponins that have antibiotic effects. A bowl of oatmeal per day will ensure a steady breast milk supply.
6. Beetroot Leaves and Spinach
Spinach and beet leaves are excellent sources of iron, calcium, and vitamins and help increase breast milk supply. Eating beetroot can keep your haemoglobin levels stable and replenish the essential minerals in your body. Thus, beets are nourishing for anaemic mothers. Beets and spinach also contain detoxifying agents and provide strength to the mother and baby. Certain plant chemicals are also found in spinach that will help prevent breast cancer.
7. Protein
Protein is essential for development and growth. When you are lactating, your body produces breast milk by using the protein you consume. The easiest way to make sure that you have enough amount of protein in your diet is by having a protein and carbohydrate-rich snack during every nursing session. Wholefood sources such as grass-fed animal protein, nuts and seeds, hemp seeds, lentils, and legumes can also increase your breast milk supply.
8. Green Papaya
Green papaya is a galactagogue that is known for its vitamins, enzymes, and minerals. It is especially rich in Vitamins A and C. One small green papaya has around 100 milligrams of vitamin C. The recommended dietary allowance of Vitamin C for women who are lactating is only between 115 to 120 mg per day. Since green papaya is unripe; you can simmer it until the fruit is soft enough to be consumed. Green papaya helps increase the production of oxytocin which thus further enhances the milk production in women.
9. Alfalfa
Alfalfa is a herb belonging to the pea family. Its scientific name is Medicago sativa. It is safe and non-toxic for both the mother and the baby and is known to increase breast milk production. Excessive consumption of alfalfa can cause diarrhoea in both the infant and the breastfeeding mom. So, talk to your doctor before including it in your diet to enhance lactation.
10. Fenugreek and Sesame Seeds
Fenugreek is a well-known galactagogue in Ayurveda that has been used to increase breast milk supply since ancient times. Fenugreek seeds contain hormone precursors that can help increase in milk supply. However, fenugreek is not for everybody. In some women, they might cause aggravated asthma symptoms and might rapidly lower blood glucose levels in women with diabetes. So, talk to your doctor before including fenugreek in your diet.
Sesame seeds are loaded with minerals like copper, manganese, iron, calcium, phosphorus, and zinc and also serve as an effective galactagogue.
You could also try other foods that are nutrient-rich like eggs or hummus. You can have them in breakfast as these foods will keep your energy levels up and help improve the nutrient content of your breast milk. Include plenty of fresh fruits, whole grains, vegetables, dairy, lean meats, and enough water in your diet when you are breastfeeding. And before that, consult with your doctor to determine which lactation supplement is right for you.
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Lactation Cookies – Benefits and Recipes Read more
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Baby Dropping - When Does It Happen and What Should You Do?
Pregnancy is a time when your body goes through a whole lot of changes. It can be confusing and make you anxious, especially if it is your first pregnancy. As the end of your pregnancy approaches, your body starts to prepare itself for labour and delivery. Your baby dropping is one of the signs that the time is fast approaching. There are some signs to watch out for and knowing all about these will help you prepare yourself better.
Why Do Babies Drop?
When somebody mentions baby dropping, it might scare you. But it actually means 'Lightening'. Lightening is the term used for baby dropping which means your labour time is approaching. As the labour approaches, baby drops into the pelvis in an effort to get into the best position within the uterus to pass easily through the birth canal. This helps stretch your pelvic muscles ahead of labour.
When are Babies More Likely To Drop?
Baby dropping or lightening during pregnancy can happen anytime between 34 to 36 weeks of pregnancy in first-time pregnancies. In later pregnancies, the baby might not drop until labour has started. If you are wondering whether it can be predicted in which week does the baby drop, then you must know that it is not an accurate science. There are no strict timelines as to when this might occur, and in some instances, it might be prior to four weeks before the labour starts.
Signs of Lightening Pregnancy
Each case of pregnancy is unique and the time of lightening, and the signs that may accompany it will vary. However, if you are pondering about what does it feel like when the baby drops, the following are some common indications:
Frequent Urination:
The pressure is likely to move to your lower abdomen from the upper part, especially on the bladder. As the baby's head lowers on your bladder, it results in more pressure on it. So, your trips to the bathroom will be more.
Easier to Breathe:
As the baby drops into your pelvis, the pressure on your diaphragm lessens. The shortness of breath that you had been experiencing earlier will no more be an issue once the baby drops. Breathing process will soon be back to normal again.
Improved Appetite:
When the baby drops, the pressure on the stomach is eased significantly. This means that you will be able to eat more than you did at the beginning of the third trimester.
Baby Bump Changes:
After your baby’s head moves into the pelvis, it is likely to seem as if your stomach is hanging lower. When you sit down, you will be able to feel the baby more.
Lower Back Pain:
When baby starts to get heavier and slides down your abdomen finally settling in the pelvis, you will experience lower back pain more frequently.
Increase in Vaginal Discharge:
The pressure caused by baby dropping in your pelvis will lead to thinning of your cervix and cause dilation. This will lead to the mucus plug being gradually expelled causing heavier discharge.
Though these signs of baby dropping during pregnancy tell you that your delivery is approaching it is not a clear-cut indicator of exactly when labour will start.
If you are only 35 weeks pregnant and are experiencing symptoms of baby dropping, you need not worry about it. However, do consult with your doctor if you feel that something is wrong.
What Should You Do?
If you are nearing your due date and baby still hasn’t dropped, there are a few things that you could try to help. But these should be done only after at least 36 weeks of pregnancy and after you have consulted your doctor.
Increase Physical Activity:
Don't do anything too strenuous, but increasing the number of walks each day can make the baby move and pressurise the cervix. But watch out for Braxton-Hicks or false labour contractions which is sometimes triggered by walking.
Mind How You Sit:
Do not sit cross-legged as it can push the baby back up. Instead, you can sit with your knees spread open and lean forward to coax the baby to move down.
Try a Birthing Ball: Using a birthing ball can give you some relief from back pain while assisting the baby to move into the pelvis. It can also increase blood flow to the baby.
Go for an Ankle Massage: There are specific pressure points in the body that are thought to instigate labour. Besides ankle massage, back massages can also help in inducing labour.
Do Some Squats:
Doing squats can help widen your pelvic opening and ease the baby downwards while strengthening your legs and hips for delivery. However, do not start off with squats if you have not been exercising during the pregnancy.
Try Swimming:
Use the backstroke to swim with your belly up or simply float on your back. If you have pelvic pain, don't do breaststrokes.
Avoid Sitting for Long:
If your job involves sitting on a chair for a long period of time, be sure to take frequent breaks during work hours. You could just stretch your legs a bit every hour or so to encourage the baby to drop.
If your baby has dropped, then be sure to visit your doctor for a check-up. This will help your doctor to adjust the due date accordingly and give you a tentative estimation of when labour is likely to start. After baby drops, it is just a matter of days before you will get to hold your little one.
Disclaimer: This information is just a guide and not a substitute for medical advice from a qualified professional.
Also Read: Signs of a Healthy and Unhealthy Baby in the Womb Read more
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Rashmi has added a new answer
Guardian of 0 children
4 hours ago
Q. #asktheexperts what to give children when starting solids?
Rashmi
Mom of a 9 yr 8 m old girl
4 hours ago
A. After completing the time of six months you should start with dal water and rice water followed by all kind of fruits and vegetables porridge khichadi mash banana mash potato mash sweet potato dairy products and varieties made made out of ragi Suji and oats can also be given to your child
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How To Do CPR in Children
Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation or CPR is one practice that most parents should know. It can be a lifesaver and reduce the chances of permanent damage in case the child stops breathing. CPR combines chest compressions and rescue breathing (mouth-to-mouth resuscitation) to great effect, and which can be used to save your child's life.
The best method to learn the techniques of CPR would be to take an official course. Its importance cannot be understated, as it can help you save your child and others, if ever necessary. However, for everybody who cannot learn CPR officially, here are the various necessities and techniques for CPR that can come handy.
What is CPR?
Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation or CPR is an emergency procedure carried out to deliver oxygen to the brain if the patient stops breathing suddenly. The procedure involves pressing down on the chest area hard (chest compressions) and delivering air to the body through mouth-to-mouth resuscitation (rescue breaths). If done in the correct manner, CPR delivers air and oxygen to the brain and other vital organs, until medical help arrives or your child recovers.
In most cases, CPR is done if the child gets affected by cardiac arrest. Cardiac arrest occurs as a result of some kind of injury or illness and is rarely an indication of any underlying heart disease. In most common cases, the heart stops beating if the patient has been drowning, suffocating, electrocuted, poisoned or if he is affected by any allergic reactions.
Why Your Child Might Need CPR?
Here are some of the reasons why your child might need emergency resuscitation, some of which are given here:
Choking
Drowning
Electrical shock
Excessive bleeding
Head trauma or other serious injuries
Lung disease
Poisoning
Suffocation
Which Symptoms Indicate Need of CPR in Kids?
Generally, there are a few symptoms which point towards the necessity of CPR in the situation.
The child is not breathing
The child has no pulse or no heartbeat
The child has passed out and is struggling to breathe
Things to Keep in Mind Before Giving Child CPR
The first step is to make sure that the surroundings of the child are safe and secure before starting the procedure. In the case of children, you have to tap on their shoulder and shout 'Are you okay?' to check if there is any response from the child. Ensure that he needs help, before proceeding with resuscitation. In the case of infants, the best way to elicit a response would be to flick the bottom of the foot and see if they respond.
Get professional medical help, or call for an ambulance or the paramedics. This has to be done before starting the procedure so that the professionals arrive at the time you finish your procedure. Even if the child has already responded to your shouting or flicking, you need to get the help of medical professionals to ensure that the child is alright and not prone to unconsciousness again.
Open the airway of the child (remove any blockage if the child is choking). Make the child lie on his back, and then lift the chin and tilt the head back slightly.
Check whether the child is breathing. Keep your ear close to the mouth, and check whether the child is breathing for ten seconds. The main point to note is that occasional gasps are not considered breathing; however, in the case of infants, periodic breathing is the norm and changes in breathing pattern are a normal occurrence.
Deliver two rescue breaths. Cover the mouth and nose (in case of infants) or just the mouth (in case of children) and breathe into the child's mouth to make the chest rise.
Begin CPR, if the baby does not respond to the rescue breaths.
How Should You Perform CPR on Your Child?
Here are the child CPR steps that will show you how to give CPR to a child
Kneel beside the baby, and push hard and fast on the chest. Place the heel of one hand on the centre of the chest, and the heel of the other hand on top of the heel. Lace your fingers, and begin the compressions. The ideal depth is around two inches, and thirty compressions are to be made. In case of infants, use two fingers and deliver compressions that are around 1.5 inches deep.
Give two rescue breaths to the child after the compressions, to check for any signs of life. Make a seal over the mouth and the nose or just the mouth with your mouth, and blow twice into the airway to make the chest rise.
If the child shows signs of life like breathing, stop CPR and wait for professional help. Otherwise, continue CPR until the child starts breathing, or trained help arrives to help you out.
Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation is something that all parents must know, as it can be a real lifesaver for your child. If the child has been the victim of an accident or an allergy and stops breathing, you have to remember to call for professional help and then administer CPR until the child breathes on his own.
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Rashmi has added a new answer
Guardian of 0 children
4 hours ago
Q. can I take gevocet m during breastfeeding
Rashmi
Mom of a 9 yr 8 m old girl
3 hours ago
A. Please check with your doctor they will be able to confirm whether you can take this medicine or or not as a Dr who have a fair idea and they will know for what thing you are willing to take this medicine so whatever doubt you have associated there be able able able to clear it up for you
Rashmi has added a new answer
Guardian of 0 children
4 hours ago
Q. can I take zanocin 200 during breastfeeding
Rashmi
Mom of a 9 yr 8 m old girl
4 hours ago
A. I’m not aware about what medicine it is for I can only tell you that these basic medicines you can take throughout your lactation it’s not a problem the medicines that you could take before your pregnancy can always be taken during the time of lactation
Rashmi has added a new answer
Guardian of 0 children
4 hours ago
Q. #asktheexpert mam iam 33 weeks now when can I expect delivery date
Rashmi
Mom of a 9 yr 8 m old girl
4 hours ago
A. The basic delivery date is normally 39 to 3 40 weeks of your pregnancy whenever you are ready for your delivery and whenever you hit your labour that’s going to be the right time for you further move your Dr is going to tell you when are you going to deliver with the help of an ultrasound
Rashmi has added a new answer
Guardian of 0 children
4 hours ago
Q. iam 33 weeks pregnant now
Rashmi
Mom of a 9 yr 8 m old girl
4 hours ago
A. What is your question associated with your pregnancy that you haven’t mentioned clearly can you please repost your question providing all the necessary details so at least I know and understand what are you willing to ask and accordingly I can give you help and assistance on that
Jennifer has added a new answer
Expecting Mom due in 3 months
2 hours ago
Q. I am 23 weeks 1 day pregnant. I was feeling the movements actively until today. Baby movements were not that good or maybe I didn’t feel it that way today. Is it a cause of concern? Should I wait for a day or two or should I go and see my gynaecologist?
Please suggest!
Read moreJennifer
Mom of 6 children
1 hour ago
A. please consult ur gynae asap.
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