So many supplements

No matter where you look you are bombarded with supplements when you are breastfeeding. How do you know what to invest in and what to ignore?

Well let's break it down. First and foremost, milk supply is regulated not by what you eat or drink. All the Body Armour, coconut milk and oatmeal may not help and will not magically increase your milk supply if there are hormonal issues. Secondly it is highly influenced and dependent or regular milk removal. This is to say one of the first things to try is feed or pump every 2-3 hours around the clock. Skipping nighttime feeds or pumps can have a detrimental effect on milk production. I get it we all like to sleep at night!

Milk supply is triggered by delivery of the placenta and an increase in Prolactin!

In order for you to be able to balance the milk regulation you need prolactin, to increase production. Oxytocin to help let down. A correctly functioning thyroid and pancreas.

With these truths, what can you do to help?

Feed every 2-3 hours, try oatmeal, fennel and or brewers yeast. These are worth a try, they are cheap and easy.

Supplement wise you can continue your prenatal vitamins. Add in a Myo-inositol and a D-chiro inositol supplement.

"Myo-inositol is involved in various cellular processes, including insulin signaling and the synthesis of neurotransmitters. It plays a crucial role in glucose metabolism and insulin sensitivity, which are integral to hormonal regulation. D-chiro inositol, on the other hand, is primarily known for its involvement in ovarian function(4) and egg quality. Together, these two forms of inositol complement each other, offering comprehensive support for hormonal health."- Max Button, DNP, APRN, FNP-BC

The rest of the things we can look at for suboptimal milk production include PCOS issues, Insulin sensitivity , Thyroid function, gestational diabetes. These require testing and adjustment.

The solution for decreased milk supply is different based on the cause. It requires a systematic approach. Check your area for a Low supply savvy lactation consultant and start there.