Supplements for Breastfeeding: What Works and How to Choose

When breastfeeding becomes a challenge, many people turn to supplements.

Scientific evidence supporting lactation supplements is mixed.

Regardless, supplements for breastfeeding continue to be a popular option for boosting milk supply.

Woman holding newborn baby while sitting on bed next to a breastfeeding pillow

Getty Images /Belinda Howell

That means some supplement products may not contain what the label says.

Getty Images /Belinda Howell

How Do Lactation Supplements Work?

Lactation supplements containgalactagogues, which are substances that are thought to increase breast milk production.

Pharmacological galactagogues are available.

However, foods, beverages, and herbal galactagogues are more commonly used.

However, these supplements may work in different ways.

Still, numerous personal accounts by people who have tried supplements for lactation say they work.

However, poor milk supply is just one of many possibilities when it comes to breastfeeding difficulties.

There may be an underlying issue that cannot be fixed with lactation supplements.

Today, galactagogues remain relevant and are used in Western and homeopathic medicines.

Research has been conducted on these and other herbs and nutrients often found in lactation supplements.

The research behind popular lactation supplements is outlined below.

Some experts believe, however, that the effects offenugreekon lactation may be mostly psychological.

However, in human studies, results regarding how well fenugreek works as a galactagogue have been mixed.

While fenugreek has been found to have mild galactagogue effects in some, others have found no effects.

A small percentage of users even reported a decrease in milk supply after using the herb.

However, there isn’t solid evidence that moringa benefits full-term infants or their nursing mothers.

More research is underway on moringa and its potential role in improving breastfeeding.

Typically, lecithin is used with the hope of relieving a clogged milk duct.

Lecithin supplementation may also improve the quality of breast milk and the infant’s nutrition and weight.

While lecithin may improve breast milk quality, there isn’t evidence that it increases breast milk volume.

Milk Thistle

Milk thistle(Silybum marianum) contains an active ingredient calledsilymarinthat may improve lactation.

However, most of the evidence supporting silymarin comes from nonhuman studies.

In lab and animal research, silymarin has been found to increase prolactin levels, which may improve lactation.

A small human trial even found there to be beneficial effects of silymarin when given to nursing people.

However, in other studies, silymarin hasn’t portrayed any galactagogue effects at all.

More research is needed.

Alfalfa is found in many breastfeeding supplements due to its perceived benefits.

It is believed that phytoestrogens in alfalfa may increase prolactin levels.

Alfalfa may also provide important nutrients needed for breast milk production.

Fennel is rich in volatile oils, phytoestrogens, and other substances that may promote breast milk production.

Although human research onfennelis limited, some studies have found a link between the herb and lactation.

It’s important that larger studies be performed on fennel to further prove its effects on lactation.

The bars were given for five days starting the day after delivery.

Anisehas been found to increase lactation and infant weight in various animal studies.

These effects are mostly thought to be due to a compound calledanetholethat is thought to increase prolactin levels.

However, no significant differences were seen in the weights of the newborns between the two groups.

Safety Precautions

It’s important to take safety into consideration when thinking of starting a new supplement.

This is especially true if you’re breastfeeding.

Overall, research on herbs and supplements for breastfeeding is limited.

There isn’t much information regarding the safety of lactation supplements either.

Side effects associated with lactation supplements are poorly reported but may sometimes occur.

To prevent potential adverse events, only use breastfeeding supplements as directed.

This means taking recommended doses and avoiding products you may be allergic to.

Always talk with a healthcare provider before starting a new supplement.

Disclose all medications and health conditions to double-check the supplement is safe for you.

Sources & What to Look For

Lactation supplements come in many forms.

These include teas, capsules, powders, and gummies.

There are also bars, cookies, and other food products on the market that contain herbal galactagogues.

In stores, lactation supplements and foods are often sold with baby products or other supplements.

When choosing the right lactation supplement for you, it’s important to do a little research.

Dietary supplements are not regulated like prescription medications in the United States.

Therefore, some may be safer than others.

Whenchoosing a supplement, consider factors such as independent testing, potential drug interactions, and other safety concerns.

No matter what method you choose, the first step should always be a meeting with a lactation specialist.

It’s recommended that you try other methods to improve lactation before resorting to supplements.

A lactation specialist or healthcare provider is there to help you.

Summary

Supplements for breastfeeding contain galactagogues that are thought to increase breast milk production and improve lactation.

Additionally, safety information regarding lactation supplements is limited.

Frequently Asked Questions

Typically, it’s recommended that lactation supplements only be used while breastfeeding.

Some lactation supplements may not be safe to use whilepregnant.

There isn’t strong research evidence on the optimal time to start taking lactation supplements.

Before starting lactation supplements, though, meet with a lactation specialist to ensure there isn’t another issue.

Lactation supplements are not necessary for everyone.

There are other ways to improve your breast milk supply.

However, keep in mind that there is very little safety information available for lactation supplements.

Always consult a healthcare provider before using any supplement while breastfeeding.

Some products and ingredients may not be safe for babies.

2020;5(5):CD011505.

2020;11(10):1208. doi:10.3390/genes11101208

Moringa.