Indian Superfoods for Breastfeeding

Breastfeeding post by Manoli Mehta - Tattvum

Breastfeeding is a natural and lovely way to nourish your child. It has several advantages for both the mother and the child, aiding healthy growth and development. This post will explain the importance of nursing and various Indian superfoods that can help improve breast milk supply.

Breastfeeding’s Importance:

Bonding and Emotional Connection: Breastfeeding fosters a close link between mother and child. It offers comfort, warmth, and stability, building a strong emotional bond that benefits both the mother and the kid.
Gets complete nutrition: Breast milk is nutritionally complete because it is specifically developed to suit the nutritional needs of newborns. It has an ideal combination of carbohydrates, proteins, fats, and important vitamins and minerals for optimal growth.
Boost immune system: Breast milk contains antibodies, enzymes, and white blood cells, which help protect babies from infections, allergies, and illnesses. Breastfed newborns are less likely to get respiratory infections, ear infections, diarrhea, and other illnesses.
Cognitive Development: Long-chain fatty acids in breast milk, such as DHA (docosahexaenoic acid), are essential for brain development. According to research, breastfed newborns may have higher IQ scores and better cognitive ability later in life.

Breast Milk Supply Increased by Indian Superfoods:

Fenugreek Seeds (Methi): Fenugreek seeds are well-known in Indian cuisine for their galactagogue characteristics, which increase milk production. You can take them by soaking a teaspoon of fenugreek seeds in water overnight and then eating them in the morning.
Fennel Seeds (Saunf): Fennel seeds are said to help in milk production and digestion. They can be drunk as a tea or added to meals to add flavour and increase milk supply.
Cumin Seeds (Jeera): Cumin seeds contain lactogenic qualities and are extensively used in Indian cookery. To enhance milk supply, they can be added to recipes or drunk as herbal tea.
Drumstick (Moringa): Drumstick leaves, also known as Moringa leaves, are high in vitamins A, C, and iron, which can help boost breast milk production. They can be incorporated into curries, soups, or eaten as a powder with water.
Bottle Gourd (Lauki/Dudhi): Bottle gourd is a hydrating vegetable that is thought to increase milk production. It can be prepared into a curry, grated into dosas, or a refreshing juice.

Conclusion: Breastfeeding is an essential component of early infant nutrition, giving several benefits to both mother and baby. Incorporating Indian superfoods into the diet, such as fenugreek seeds, fennel seeds, cumin seeds, drumstick leaves, and bottle gourd, will help improve breast milk supply. Remember to consult with a healthcare professional or a lactation consultant for personalized advice and guidance on breastfeeding and nutrition.

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