Fenugreek seeds are considered to be one of the most potent sources of galactagogues. A galactogogue is a substance that promotes milk production in humans and other mammals. If you are breastfeeding and unable to produce enough milk for your baby, consider using fenugreek seeds to boost your milk supply.
Steps
Step 1. Purchase a fenugreek seed supplement or tea at a herbalist's shop
Fenugreek supplements are available in various doses but the recommended one is 580 or 610 mg. If you decide to drink tea, you will probably feel bitter. Many expert breastfeeding consultants say that drinking tea is less effective than capsules.
Step 2. Take more capsules than recommended on the package or you may not get the results you want
Many brands recommend taking 1 to 3 capsules a day, but you may need to take 2 or 3 capsules 3 times a day to notice any changes.
Step 3. Adjust the doses according to your needs
If you notice that you are producing a lot of milk, reduce the amount of fenugreek. If you don't see any changes, keep taking the same amount of capsules for a while to see if you need to take more or less. The exact amount to take varies from woman to woman.
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Most women start producing more milk after 72 hours of taking fenugreek. Many women who breastfeed regularly stop taking the supplement as soon as they notice the first results. Some, on the other hand, have to wait a long time.
Step 4. Finished
Advice
- If you don't breastfeed regularly every 2 to 3 hours, fenugreek probably won't help you increase your milk supply.
- Some women experience side effects such as worsening asthma or even diarrhea, especially when they take too many capsules, reduce doses or stop altogether. Babies of mothers who use this type of herb to boost milk production have so far experienced no side effects.
- It is advisable not to use galactagogues before trying other methods, such as a healthy diet and constant breastfeeding. In addition, it is advisable to eliminate the administration of formula milk.
- Fenugreek can be used alongside blessed thistle, which is another herb that promotes breast milk production.
Warnings
- If you are pregnant, avoid using this supplement. It could stimulate the uterus and cause contractions.
- If you are diabetic or suffer from hypoglycemia, be careful as fenugreek may affect your blood sugar level.
- Women who use fenugreek to increase milk production will likely smell maple syrup in their sweat and urine. However, this side effect is not serious and discontinuation of therapy is not necessary.