What can I eat to increase breast milk?

Question:
What can i eat or drink to increase breastmilk and the flow of breastmilk. What foods should i be eating nursing a 7 month old

Answer:
Congratulations on your new baby . . .what a wonderful time! And, thanks for "asking the nutritionist" at breastmilk.com. Many nursing moms are surprised to hear that what they eat and drink while they breastfeed is just as is important as what they ate and drank during pregnancy.  Eating a well-balanced diet, rich in fruits and vegetables, and drinking lots of water, is necessary to ensure that the nursing mom stays healthy and that she produces high quality breastmilk for her growing baby.

Most nutritionists agree that it is necessary for nursing moms to increase their caloric intake by 300-500 calories. But, be careful not to consume these extra calories by eating junk foods . . .be sure to pick nutritious snacks and/or eat slightly larger portions at each meal.

Here are a few quick snack ideas that provide approximately 250 calories:
    * English muffin pizza: Split 1 whole-wheat English muffin, top with 1/3 cup spaghetti sauce and 1-2 tbsp shredded cheese. Bake in toaster oven until cheese is melted, about 3 to 5 minutes.
    * Pita and hummus: Dip a 5-inch-diameter whole-wheat pita (check label and have 100 calories worth) into 1/3 cup hummus. Have 1/2 cup cucumber slices or other vegetable on the side.
    * Apple and peanut butter: Have 1 apple topped with 2 tablespoons peanut butter

If you are having trouble producing enough breastmilk, again, be sure you are sufficiently hydrated . . .water, water, water! :-)     There are also several herbs (called galactagogues) that are believed to be beneficial in improving the quantity of breastmilk.  Check out our Nursing Blend product, a multivitamin and herbal supplement designed specifically for breastfeeding moms who want (or need) to increase the quantity and quality of breastmilk.  See www.nursingblend.com.