I am not a certified consultant, but I’ve been blessed enough to provide nourishment to both my children. I’ve also had the “pleasure” (insert sarcasm) of having multiple complications during the journeys. There are a ton of constant worries that comes with breastfeeding. Besides going into the pain that can be associated; the main worry is – DO I MAKE ENOUGH MILK?
I want to put your mind at ease and let you know that any breastfeeding journey is an accomplishment. I also want to put it out there that there is nothing wrong with formula feeding or deciding to end your journey. I promise you, your baby will love you no matter what. What I want to ensure is that you love yourself! Give yourself some grace and love! Dwell on the fact that your body has created LIFE! You, yes you, grew a whole human! I’m here to say I’m proud of you!
There are many factors that can affect your supply. Let’s talk about a few of them. Stress can affect your supply, but it doesn’t make your milk “bad”. Baby will still get the nourishment it needs while you work on trying to find your happy and your healthy! Boob Food: some items that help are nuts and nut butters, oatmeal, avocado, seeds, coconut water, balanced diet, and another big item! WATER!!! Water intake is the biggest factor of all! Your body is working overtime (yet again) to produce the substance your baby needs. To keep up with that, you have to stay hydrated! Not only are you completing the water intake for baby; you’re still completing it for you too. So, hydrate!
Be careful with fenugreek. It’s hidden in a lot of “increase your supply” products. Many women experience a decrease in supply when taking fenugreek. There’s plenty of other galactagogue foods that are easily accessible. I suggest finding ones you like and making your own!
Remember, YOU are a real life super hero! Cuddle your baby and love yourself in the process! XOXO