What Foods Should Be Consumed During the Postpartum Period to Increase Breast Milk Supply?
Due to the different situations of each mother, there can be significant differences in the amount of milk produced. Mothers with insufficient milk production can consume certain foods that promote lactation, such as pig's trotters, crucian carp, and peanuts.
Foods that Promote Lactation
1. Pig's Trotters
Pig's trotters are well-known for their nutritional benefits. They are rich in collagen, low in fat, and have excellent lactation-promoting and beauty effects. Eating pig's trotters can provide new mothers with sufficient macromolecular collagen, which enters the body tissue in the form of water-soluble compounds. This can effectively improve cell nutrition and metabolism, resulting in smoother and more delicate skin, which is beneficial for postpartum skin recovery and anti-aging. Additionally, the collagen in pig's trotters can be converted into glycine protein acid, a good inhibitory neurotransmitter, which can help prevent postpartum depression. When cooking pig's trotters, it is recommended to use a pressure cooker to ensure that the collagen is fully absorbed, thereby promoting lactation. It is also advisable to use less salt and avoid adding MSG. The best part to consume is the underside of the trotter, which contains less fat and more gelatin.
2. Crucian Carp
Crucian carp is renowned for its tender meat and delicious taste. It is rich in proteins, fats, vitamin A, vitamin B, calcium, and other nutrients, making it excellent for promoting lactation. Consuming crucian carp can help new mothers improve their appetite and spleen function, promote lactation, and regulate body fluids. It is particularly suitable for mothers who experience postpartum spleen and stomach disharmony or insufficient milk production. The proteins in crucian carp are easily absorbed by the body and can be transported to the baby through breast milk, promoting their intellectual development.
3. Peanuts
Peanuts have excellent tonic and spleen-strengthening properties, as well as good lactation-promoting effects. They are rich in proteins, vitamin C, and iron, with the red skin particularly effective in blood replenishment. Peanuts also contain abundant vitamin B complex, minerals, and amino acids, which can promote brain nerve development and enhance postpartum memory.