If you are a nursing mother, you may have heard of lactation cookies. But what are they? And what do they do for nursing mothers?
In this guide, we will discuss the benefits of lactation cookies for nursing mothers, and we will also discuss issues that may arise when taking lactation cookies.
What Are Lactation Cookies?
Lactation cookies are a type of cookie that is specifically designed to help increase milk production in breastfeeding mothers. They contain ingredients like Brewer’s yeast and flaxseed, which are known to help boost milk supply. Eating lactation cookies can help with an increased milk supply.
What Do Lactation Cookies Do For Nursing Mothers?
Lactation cookies are not a magical cure-all for low milk production, but they can be an effective tool in boosting milk supply.
Lactation Cookies Benefits
Some of the benefits that nursing mothers may experience from taking lactation cookies include:
- Increased milk production
- Reduced risk of mastitis
- Better sleep due to the high protein and fiber content of lactation cookies
- Energy boost
- Immune system boost
- Nutritional benefits from the essential vitamins
- Help keep the digestive system regular
- A tasty quick snack
When taking lactation cookies, it is important to remember that every nursing mother is different. Some mothers may experience a significant increase in milk production, while others may only see a slight increase.
It is also important to note that not all lactation cookies are created equal. Some cookies contain more beneficial ingredients than others. It’s worth looking for a lactation cookie recipe and making your own lactation cookies and we’ve pulled together lots here.
The benefit of this is you can mix food ingredients to ones which you prefer, for example using gluten-free flour or coconut oil.
You can trial and mix and match recipes to see which help stimulate breastmilk production and the ones which are doing the best at increased milk supply can be kept!
Do Lactation Cookies Work?
Some mothers swear by the power of lactation cookies to help them produce more milk while others find that they don’t work at all.
To date, there is not a whole lot of scientific evidence to support or refute the claims made about lactation cookies. Speak to your certified lactation consultant if you need specific help or advice.
However, they are generally made with ‘super-foods’ that provide health benefits for nursing mothers, so it is worth trying them if you are experiencing difficulty breastfeeding or with your breast milk supply.
Lactation biscuits or cookies are galactagogues, this means that they are food that helps to increase milk production. The ingredients in lactation cookies vary, so it is important to find lactation cookie recipes that work for you. We’ve done Peanut Butter Lactation Cookies Recipes here.
How Do Lactation Cookies Work
There is no one answer to this question as the ingredients in lactation cookies can vary. However, many lactation cookies contain brewers yeast, which is a source of B-vitamins and protein, as well as flaxseed meal, which is high in fiber and omega fatty acids.
Some people also believe that galactagogues, or substances that promote lactation, can be found in these cookies. Ultimately, it is the combination of these ingredients that is thought to help increase milk supply.
If you are looking for a way to boost your milk production, lactation cookies may be a good option for you. However, be sure to talk to your doctor or lactation consultant if you feel you have a low milk supply.
Active Ingredients in Lactation Cookies
When it comes to lactation cookies, there are a few key active ingredients that can help nursing mothers increase their milk supply. Let’s take a closer look at these ingredients and how they work!
Brewers Yeast To Boost Milk Supply
Brewer’s yeast is another lactation-boosting ingredient that you may want to consider using in your lactation cookies.
Brewer’s yeast is high in B vitamins, and these vitamins are essential for healthy milk production. Brewer’s yeast also contains a compound called beta-glucan, which is thought to help increase milk supply.
Brewer’s yeast is a great way to increase your milk supply. It helps your body to produce more prolactin, which is the hormone responsible for breast milk production. Brewer’s yeast can be taken in supplement form, or you can eat it in food products like bread and cereals.
Oats to Boost Breast Milk Production
There are many foods that are said to help with milk supply, but oats seem to be one of the most popular. Oats are a great source of soluble fiber, and they also contain iron and vitamin E, both of which can help boost milk production.
In addition, oats have a high lactogenic index, meaning they promote the production of breast milk if you have a low milk supply.
So if you’re looking for a way to boost your milk supply, consider adding oats to your diet. You can eat them as oatmeal or add them to smoothies or other recipes
Wheat Germ To Boost Breastmilk Production
Wheat germ is a nutrient-rich component of wheat that is often removed during the milling process. It is high in thiamin, vitamin E, and essential fatty acids. All of these nutrients are beneficial for lactating mothers.
Thiamin is important for energy production and nerve function. Vitamin E is an antioxidant that helps protect cells from damage. Essential fatty acids are important for milk production and baby growth.
Wheat germ can be added to smoothies, yogurt, or cereal. It can also be ground up and added to bread dough. Adding wheat germ to your diet can help boost your milk supply.
Flaxseed meal to Increase Breast Milk
Ground flaxseed has phytoestrogens, which are weak estrogens that can mimic the effects of estrogen in the body. Phytoestrogens may help increase milk production in some women.
Flaxseed also contains essential fatty acids, which are important for a healthy milk supply. Adding flaxseed to your diet may help increase your milk production. Flax seeds will also lower blood glucose and improve insulin tolerance.
If you are looking to increase your milk supply, adding flaxseed to your diet is a good option.
Chia Seeds
Chia seeds are a great way to help boost your milk supply. They are high in calcium and protein, which are two important nutrients for nursing mothers. Additionally, chia seeds are filling and satisfying, which can help to reduce hunger and cravings.
They are also full of fibre which is great for the digestive system and helps prevent irritable bowel syndrome.
Problems With Lactation Cookies
Whilst lactation cookies generally help you produce milk, there can be some unwanted side effects including:
Lactation Cookies Can Cause Diarrhea
If you eat too many lactation cookies, you may experience some diarrhoea. This is because the cookies contain a lot of fiber, which can cause your digestive system to work faster than normal.
Lactation Cookies Can Cause Weight Gain
The high sugar content of lactation cookies can lead to weight gain if you eat too many of them. This is because sugar is a calorie-dense food. So whilst they are healthy, they are cookies so in moderation!
Lactation Cookies Can Cause Cramps
The high fiber content of lactation cookies can also cause cramps if you eat too many of them. This is because fiber can cause your stomach to expand more than normal.
Lactation Cookies Can Cause Gas and Bloating
The high fiber and sugar content of lactation cookies can also cause gas and bloating. This is because both fiber and sugar can ferment in your gut, leading to these symptoms.
So, whilst lactation cookies generally help you produce milk, there are some potential side effects to be aware of. It is important to moderate your intake of lactation cookies
Lactation Cookies FAQs
How Many Lactation Cookies Should I Eat Per Day?
There is no definitive answer to this question. Some women find that eating one or two cookies per day is sufficient, while others find they need to eat more in order to see an effect. Experiment a little and see what works best for you.
Generally speaking, the more lactation cookies you eat, the more milk you will produce. But don’t overdo it – too many cookies can lead to weight gain. Try to find a balance that works for you.
How to Store Lactation Cookies?
You can store lactation cookies in an airtight container on the counter for up to two days or in the fridge for up to four days. Make sure they are stored in a cool, dry place. If they are not stored properly, they may become stale or soggy.
Lactation cookies will keep their freshness and texture when stored in the freezer for up to two months. When you are ready to eat them, let them thaw on the counter or in the fridge. Enjoy!
When to Take Lactation Cookies?
There is no one answer to this question as each woman’s body is different. However, many lactation cookies are best taken in the morning, especially if they contain brewer’s yeast.
Some women find that they need to take lactation cookies throughout the day in order to maintain their milk supply, while others find that a single serving is all they need.
If you are looking for a great recipe for lactation cookies, be sure to check out our recipe page! We have a variety of recipes that are both delicious and nutritious. And remember, if you have any questions, our team is always here to help.
Can Lactation Cookies Cause Thrush?
Lactation cookies that contain brewers yeast can cause thrush if you eat them in large quantities. This is because brewers’ yeast contains a high level of sugar, which can fuel the growth of thrush bacteria and yeast infections.
Many women continue to eat cookies without any issues, but if you are suffering from yeast infections then cut them out until it is gone.
Do Lactation Cookies Make You Lactate?
No, whilst lactation cookies can help with increasing milk supply for nursing moms, they do not directly make you lactate. To get the most out of your lactation cookies, it is important to eat them as part of a balanced diet and to drink plenty of fluids.
Are Lactation Cookies Safe for Everyone?
Yes, unless you have a food allergy to any of the ingredients in lactation cookies, they are safe for you to eat. Lactation cookies are not only a great source of nutrients for nursing mothers, but they also taste delicious!
So if you are looking for a tasty and nutritious snack, lactation cookies are a great option. Just be sure to check the ingredients list to make sure there are no allergens present. Enjoy!
Are Lactation Cookies Fattening?
They can be, depending on the ingredients. Generally, lactation cookies are made with rolled oats, flax seed, brewers yeast, and flaxseed meal which are all healthy and filling ingredients.
However, if the recipe includes sugar or butter, and chocolate chips, then they may not be as healthy. Try making your own lactation cookies to ensure that they are healthy and low in calories. You can gain weight if you eat too much, so like everything in life, eat in moderation.
If you find you are gaining weight either change your recipe to a healthier one or reduce your intake. Breastfeeding moms eat them to help with supply, but you can swap down to lactation bites which still help with increasing milk supply without too many extra calories.
Will Lactation Cookies Increase Breast Size?
No! Whilst they might increase your milk production, there is no evidence to suggest that they will increase breast size.
Can Anyone Eat Lactation Cookies?
The answer to this question is yes! Lactation cookies are meant to help nursing mothers increase their milk supply, but anyone can enjoy them for the delicious treats that they are.
They are made with nutritious ingredients like oats, flaxseed, and brewer’s yeast, which all offer health benefits on their own and might boost energy levels.
How Quickly Do Lactation Cookies Work?
This is a question that many new mothers have. The answer, unfortunately, is that it varies from woman to woman. Some women find that they start to produce more milk almost immediately after eating lactation cookies, while others find that it takes a few days for the cookies to start working.
Lactation cookies are a great way to boost your milk production, but they are not the only way. There are also many other foods that can help increase your milk supply. Some of these include fenugreek, fennel, dark leafy greens, blessed thistle, coconut water and oatmeal.
If you are looking for a way to increase your milk production, try eating some of these foods along with drinking plenty of water and breastfeeding as often as possible. You should start to see a difference in your milk supply in no time!
Can Lactation Cookies Cause An Oversupply Of Milk?
Yes, lactation cookies can cause an oversupply of milk. In fact, any food that is high in galactagogues (substances that increase milk production) can cause your body to produce too much milk. If you are experiencing an oversupply of milk, you may want to avoid eating foods that are high in galactagogues. Some common high-galactagogue foods include:
-Brewer’s yeast
-Fennel
-Garlic
-Aniseed
-Caraway seed
-Chamomile tea
The Bottom Line on What Are Lactation Cookies?
Whilst many women find a significant difference in their low milk supply when eating a lactation cookie, other women find no improvement. However, they are packed full of vitamins and minerals and can be a great addition to any nursing mother’s diet.
If you are looking for an easy and tasty way to increase your milk supply or just to have a healthy breastfeeding snack, lactation cookies are a good option. Just make sure that you eat them in moderation!
This article was written by Sandra Baker – full time writer and the mother of four amazing kids (including twins!)
She’s also a breastfeeding counselor and has spent years helping new parents learn how to care for their children. When she’s not writing or caring for her children, Sandra likes to spend time reading and taking walks with her husband.