The consumption of certain fruits can help increase breast milk production. Specifically, apricots and dates have been identified as beneficial for this purpose.
How Apricots and Dates Help Increase Breast Milk
These fruits contribute to increased breast milk supply by boosting prolactin levels. Prolactin is the primary hormone responsible for signaling the body to produce milk.
Apricots:
- Contain essential nutrients like dietary fiber, vitamin A, vitamin C, and potassium.
- Fresh apricots are preferred over canned.
- If you must use canned apricots, choose ones not packed in syrups.
Dates:
- Dates, like apricots, are known to help increase prolactin, thus aiding in milk production.
Benefits of Including These Fruits in Your Diet:
- Increased Prolactin: Both apricots and dates naturally elevate prolactin levels, a critical hormone for lactation.
- Nutrient Rich: Apricots offer important vitamins and minerals that are beneficial for both the mother and the baby.
- Dietary Fiber: The fiber content in apricots also supports digestive health.
Practical Tips:
- Incorporate fresh apricots and dates into your daily diet.
- Make smoothies with fresh or frozen apricots, adding other breastfeeding-friendly ingredients.
- Use dates as a natural sweetener in desserts and snacks.
- If using canned apricots, rinse them thoroughly to remove excess syrup.
By incorporating these fruits into your diet, nursing mothers can potentially enhance their milk supply and provide the best nourishment for their babies.
