Products to Help With Breast Milk Production

Breast-feeding is not only a way to feed your baby but also an important bonding experience the two of you share each day. While you enjoy these moments with your baby, it can become frustrating when the milk production depletes before you stop breast-feeding, especially if it is such a small amount that formula is required for your baby to get the nutrients she needs. Dietary changes and natural remedies can help increase your milk production.

Drink More Fluids

Drinking more fluids such as water, juice and milk is one of the most effective ways to increase breast milk production naturally. Mayo Clinic suggests lactating women drink at least 3.1 liters (13 cups) of fluids each day. Start your day off with a tall glass of water, drink a glass of water before each meal and juice or milk with your meals to help you get enough fluids for producing more breast milk.

Eat More Calories

Eating more calories each day will help you to increase your breast milk production. Each day, nursing burns an extra 500 calories, which means you should be adding at least 500 calories to your diet. Choose healthy foods such as whole grains, fruits and vegetables to give your baby the healthiest breast milk possible. Asparagus and alfalfa have shown a positive effect in increasing the amount of milk you produce.

Take Herbs

Certain herbs and supplements have shown an increase in your daily breast milk supply. Fenugreek, often found in curry dishes, can be taken in pill form and is one of the most common herbal remedies for naturally increasing production of your breast milk. Other herbs include ipomea, blessed thistle, anise, dill, fennel, goat's rue and raspberry.

Other Ways to Help With Production

Aside from these products that aid in increasing your breast milk production, there are other methods you can try to help your baby get what he needs. Surprisingly enough, the more frequently you pump, the more you will get each day. Begin increasing breastfeeding and pumping by one or two extra sessions a day. Other ways to naturally increase production include getting plenty of sleep, relaxing during pumping and breastfeeding and avoiding certain products such as alcohol, decongestants, tobacco, birth control pills and herbs such as garlic, thyme, sage and parsley.