Fenugreek (Methi) and Breast Milk Supply – Does It Really Help?





Doctors recommend that;newborns;should be fed exclusively with breast milk for the first six months of their lives. Breast milk contains all the necessary nutrients your baby needs for proper growth and development. It also contains antibodies from the mother which help build the baby’s immunity and resistance to infections. Unfortunately, not all lactating moms are able to produce sufficient quantities of breast milk to feed their babies. Breast milk supply can be increased by taking natural foods that help the mother’s body produce greater quantities of breast milk. Fenugreek is one such food that helps increase breast milk production.





What is Fenugreek?




Fenugreek is;a herb;native to South and Western Asia. The scientific name of fenugreek is Trigonella;foenum-graecum;and India is the largest producer of fenugreek in the world. The seeds and leaves of fenugreek are commonly used ingredients in South Asian dishes. Fenugreek has several health benefits and contains several nutrients that are beneficial for lactating mothers. The leaves contain phosphorous, potassium, calcium, dietary fibre and iron. The seeds contain vitamins A, C, and B-complex vitamins like thiamine, riboflavin, folic acid, niacin, and pyridoxine.
Is Fenugreek Safe For A Breastfeeding Mother and Her Baby?
Fenugreek is completely safe for breastfeeding mothers and their babies. However, diabetic women, pregnant women, women who are allergic to peanuts and chickpeas, and women with hypothyroidism should check with their doctor before adding fenugreek to their diet.
Does Fenugreek Increase Breast Milk Supply?
Fenugreek is a well-known galactagogue, which means this herb increases breast milk production in lactating mothers. Seeds and leaves of fenugreek have been used by lactating mothers to;boost breast milk supplyfor hundreds of years.
How does Fenugreek work for Increased Breast Milk Production?
Fenugreek contains several flavonoids and vitamins which are beneficial for lactating mothers. It also contains phytoestrogen which is similar to the female hormone oestrogen which stimulates the breast milk ducts to grow. Fenugreek contains a compound called diosgenin which increases milk flow in lactating women.
Consuming Fenugreek To Increase Breast Milk
Consuming fenugreek is a natural and safe way to boost breast milk production in breastfeeding moms. Here are various ways in which you can add fenugreek to your diet:
1. Chewing Seeds
You can chew or swallow a teaspoonful of fenugreek seeds daily.
2. Fenugreek Sprouts
Soak fenugreek seeds in water until they soften. Drain the water and keep in a cool, dark place until they sprout. Use the sprouts in salads
3. Fenugreek Tea
Drinking;fenugreek tea for breast milk;production helps increase the milk flow in lactating women. To make the tea, add hot water to a teaspoon of seeds and allow it to steep. Drink this with;honey.

4. Powder
Having fenugreek powder for breast milk;production is another way of consuming fenugreek to boost lactation. Dry roast a handful of seeds and grind it to make a powder. Use this powder to flavour dals and curries.
5. Capsules
Fenugreek capsules for breastfeeding;moms are sold in most pharmacies. You can buy the fenugreek capsules. However, make sure you consult your doctor to determine the correct dosage.
6. Fenugreek Rice Porridge
Pressure cook 2 tablespoons of fenugreek seeds with a cup of rice with water and salt until it turns soft. Consume this porridge to boost breast milk production.
7. Stir Fried Leaves
Thoroughly wash and de-stem fresh fenugreek leaves. Use this in a stir fry along with other vegetables or stir fry the leaves on their own and use it as a side dish.
8. Rotis
Fenugreek leaves are mixed with;chappati;dough to make rotis or parathas. This is a tasty way to consume fenugreek leaves.
9. Dosas
Fenugreek seeds are ground along with rice and lentils to make dosa batter. The dosas made from this batter contain fenugreek which boosts lactation.
10. Curries
Add fenugreek leaves to sambhar, curries, and dals to make them flavourful and to boost breast milk flow.
How Soon Does Fenugreek Increase Breast Milk Supply?
Breastfeeding moms find that their breast milk flow increases within one to three days of starting to consume fenugreek. It has been found that it could take up to 2 weeks to see an increase in breast milk production in some women.
How Long Do You Need To Take Fenugreek?
The fenugreek can be stopped once the breast milk flow has increased to the required level. The flow will be maintained if the baby is fed regularly. It can also be used;long-term;to increase breast milk supply for mothers who want to;pump;and;store breast milk.
Suggested Fenugreek Dosage
Fenugreek should be consumed in the correct dosage to increase lactation. Make sure you ask your doctor to determine the correct dosage for you. Here are the appropriate dosages: