How Many Lactation Cookies Should I Eat Per Day? Everything You Need To Know In 2024
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Are you struggling to produce enough milk for your little one?
You’re not alone – many new moms worry about their milk supply. Enter lactation cookies: a popular treat believed to give breastfeeding moms a much-needed boost.
But you may be asking yourself: “How many lactation cookies should I eat per day?” “And what’s the science behind them?”
In this blog post, we’ll delve into the world of lactation cookies, exploring their ingredients, effectiveness, and potential side effects.
The answer to the ideal number of lactation cookies isn’t one-size-fits-all. As a starting point, try 2-3 cookies per day, and adjust based on your body’s response. Be mindful, though, as too many lactation cookies can lead to unwanted weight gain! And remember, these cookies aren’t a magic solution; a healthy, balanced diet with ample hydration is crucial for breast milk supply.
Still unsure about the right lactation cookie intake for you? Consult a lactation consultant or healthcare provider for personalized guidance. After all, every mother’s breastfeeding journey is unique, and what works for one may not work for another. So let’s dive in and learn more about these intriguing treats!
What are lactation cookies?
Lactation cookies are a type of cookie that contains ingredients believed to promote breast milk supply in breastfeeding mothers. These cookies are a popular choice for nursing mothers who want to increase or maintain their milk production.
The natural ingredients in lactation cookies vary, but they often include:
oats
brewers yeast
flaxseed
These ingredients are believed to stimulate the production of prolactin, a hormone that is responsible for milk production.
Lactation cookies can be made at home or they can be purchased pre-made from specialty stores or online retailers. Many recipes are easy to make and can be customized to suit individual tastes and preferences.
I’ll pop a link to a delicious recipe later in this post so can make your own lactation cookies!
While lactation cookies are not a substitute for proper nutrition and hydration, they can be a helpful addition to a breastfeeding mom’s diet. It is recommended that nursing mothers eat 2-3 lactation cookies per day, ideally about an hour before nursing or pumping. This can help ensure that the ingredients in the lactation cookies work and are fully absorbed by the body and can have a chance to increase breast milk supply.
Do lactation cookies work?
Let’s take a closer look at the scientific and anecdotal evidence to find out.
Scientific evidence
While there is limited scientific evidence on the effectiveness of lactation cookies, some of the ingredients have been shown to boost milk supply.
For example, oats are a common ingredient in lactation cookies and are known to contain saponins, which can stimulate the production of prolactin, a hormone that is essential for milk production.
Additionally, some studies have found that certain galactagogues, such as fenugreek, can increase your milk supply.
However, it’s worth noting that the research on these ingredients is still limited, and more studies are needed to fully understand their impact on milk production.
Anecdotal evidence
Despite the lack of scientific evidence, many breastfeeding moms swear by and regularly eat lactation cookies to produce more milk for their babies. Some mothers even claim that lactation cookies are more effective than prescription medications or other galactagogues.
It’s important to note that anecdotal evidence should be taken with a grain of salt, as individual experiences can vary widely!
How many lactation cookies should I eat per day?
Breastfeeding can be a challenging journey, and you may be struggling with low milk supply or engorged breasts. You may be wondering if you should start eating lactation cookies to promote healthy lactation before reaching for medications, but how many should you eat per day?
In this section, we’ll explore the factors to consider and dosage recommendations to help you make an informed decision.
Factors to consider
The number of lactation cookies you should eat per day depends on several factors, including your caloric demands, breastfeeding journey, and any side effects you may experience. Breastfeeding moms require an additional 330 – 400 calories per day, so it’s essential to ensure you’re getting enough nutrients to support milk production.
How fast do lactation cookies work?
It’s also important to note that a lactation cookie is not a magic solution! Some moms may see an increase in milk supply within a day or two, while others may not notice a difference at all.
Dosage recommendations
As a general guideline, it’s recommended to start with 2-3 lactation cookies per day and gradually increase as needed.
It’s best to eat them about an hour before pumping or nursing to help stimulate milk production.
If you’re nursing frequently (8+ times per day), you may need to eat multiple lactation cookies (3-4) per day.
It’s important to listen to your body and adjust the dosage as needed. If you’re not seeing an increase in milk supply after a few days, you can try eating a little more or experimenting with different recipes. Some moms may find that they need to eat up to 6 cookies per day, while others may only need one or two.
Best time to eat lactation cookies
There’s no specific time of day that’s best to eat lactation cookie snacks, but many moms find that eating them in the morning helps boost milk production throughout the day. It’s also important to note that lactation cookies are not a substitute for a healthy diet and should be eaten in moderation.
Are lactation cookies nutritious?
What are the common ingredients in lactation cookies?
| Ingredient | Benefits |
| Oats | A good source of beta-glucan, a type of soluble fiber that has been shown to increase milk production. Oats are also rich in healthy carbohydrates, iron, fibre, calcium, and B vitamins, which are essential for maintaining a healthy milk supply. |
| Brewer’s yeast | A type of nutritional yeast rich in B vitamins, protein, and minerals, including iron which can help boost energy levels. Brewers yeast is believed to be a galactagogue, which means it can help stimulate milk production. |
| Flax seed | A good source of omega-3 fatty acids, which are important for brain development in infants. It is also rich in lignans, which are compounds that can help balance hormones in the body plus may help prevent irritable bowel syndrome. Flaxseed is a common ingredient in lactation cookies because it is believed to help increase milk production. |
| Fennel | A herb that has been used for centuries to promote lactation. It contains phytoestrogens, which are plant compounds that mimic the effects of estrogen in the body. Fennel is believed to help increase milk production and can also help soothe digestive issues in both mother and baby. |
Lactation cookies may also contain other ingredients such as seeds, nuts, wheat germ, coconut oil, and sugar. Some lactation cookies are also dairy-free, making them a good option for mothers with lactose intolerance or dairy allergies.
Nutrient-dense cookies
Typically made with ingredients associated with increased milk supply, also known as “galactagogues”, such as oats, flaxseed, and brewer’s yeast, lactation cookie recipes tend to incorporate these staples along with other nutrient-dense ingredients such as nuts, seeds, and dried fruit. These ingredients can provide a range of vitamins and minerals that are important for overall health and well-being.
Calories
It’s important to note that lactation cookies can be high in calories. This is because they are often made with ingredients like butter, sugar, and chocolate chips. While these ingredients can make them delicious, they can also contribute to weight gain if consumed in excess. So just keep an eye on how many lactation cookies you eat per day. We all know that breastfeeding can make you very hungry so be mindful of this!!
Fat
Lactation cookies can also be high in fat, particularly saturated fat. While some healthy fats are important for overall health, too much saturated fat can increase the risk of heart disease. Nursing mothers should be mindful of their fat intake and choose breastfeeding cookies with healthy ingredients that are lower in saturated fat.
How do lactation cookies help with milk production?
Lactation cookies contain galactagogues, which are substances that can help increase prolactin levels in the body. Prolactin is a hormone that plays a crucial role in breast milk production.
When prolactin levels are high, the body produces more breast milk.
Galactagogues can be found in a variety of foods, including oats, brewer’s yeast, flax seeds, and fenugreek. Lactation cookies typically contain a combination of these ingredients, making them a convenient and tasty way to boost milk production.
Can I expect any side effects when I eat lactation cookies?
Bloating
Lactation cookies contain ingredients that can cause bloating, such as wheat flour, sugar, and butter. If you eat too many lactation cookies, you may experience discomfort, gas, or bloating. It is recommended that you start taking lactation cookies first with a small serving size and gradually increase your intake to avoid these side effects.
Gassiness
Some moms may experience gassiness after eating lactation cookies. This can be due to the high fiber content in some of the ingredients. If you notice that you are experiencing gassiness after eating lactation cookies, try reducing your serving size or switching to a different brand that uses different ingredients.
Weight gain
Lactation cookies can contain a lot of calories in a small portion. Some of the ingredients in the cookies, such as butter and sugar, may cause weight gain. You may gain weight if you are not burning those extra calories off through exercise or by breastfeeding. It is important to keep this in mind and eat lactation cookies in moderation.
Other ways to increase milk supply
In addition to lactation cookies, there are other ways to increase milk supply. Here are a few methods you can try:
Lactation supplements
There are several lactation supplements available that can help increase milk supply. Some popular ingredients in these supplements include fenugreek, fennel, and blessed thistle. However, it is important to note that not all women respond to these supplements in the same way, and some may experience side effects such as upset stomach or diarrhea. It is always best to consult with a healthcare provider before taking any new herbal supplements.
Breastfeeding diet
What you eat can also impact your milk supply. It is important to stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water throughout the day. Additionally, consuming foods that are rich in certain nutrients such as chromium and omega-3 fatty acids can also help support milk production. Some examples include whole grains, dark leafy greens, and fatty fish.
Learn more about giving your milk supply a boost here: How to Increase Milk Supply Quickly: Tips and Tricks for Breastfeeding Moms
Pumping
Pumping can also help increase milk supply. It is recommended to pump after breastfeeding to help stimulate milk flow and signal to the body to produce more milk.
Check out my posts for more information about pumping:
The best wearable breast pumps: Express milk anywhere, anytime
The 6 Best Smart Breast Pumps for Busy Moms
Make your own homemade lactation cookies
If you don’t want to buy lactation cookies and fancy making some of your own as a healthy snack to increase your milk supply check out this lactation cookies recipe:
Best Lactation Cookie Recipe by The Hull Home
There’s something really satisfying about making your own lactation cookies! Include ingredients such as brewer’s yeast, flax seeds, chia seeds then store lactation cookies in an airtight container for approximately one week (frozen up to 3 months).
So start eating lactation cookies made by your own fair hand!
Conclusion
Lactation cookies can be a great supplement for new moms looking to boost breastmilk supply. However, the number of cookies you should eat per day varies depending on your body and your milk supply – start with 2-3 cookies a day and adjust as necessary.
A lactation consultant can provide personalized recommendations based on your individual needs and circumstances.
It’s important to note that lactation cookies should not be relied upon as the sole solution for low milk supply issues. They should be used in conjunction with other methods such as nursing on demand, pumping, and staying hydrated.
Overall, lactation cookies can be a delicious and convenient way to support milk production. Just remember to start slowly, consult with a lactation consultant if needed, and use them as part of a comprehensive approach to breastfeeding.
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