Breastfeeding 101

Tips and tricks to boost lactation

- Dr Preeti Gowda

According to scientific research, 90% of mums can produce enough milk for their children. Unfortunately, according to WHO, only 41% of infants are exclusively breastfed for the first six months of their lives. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention states that approximately 75% of new mums begin breastfeeding their babies, but many discontinue either partially or completely within the first few months due to concerns about insufficient milk production, and frequently report a decrease in milk supply after six months, when they return to work, or when the child begins complementary feeding.

However, we frequently overlook the concept of demand and supply. Milk production is directly proportional to the child’s desire. Keeping this in mind, here are some simple ways to boost your breast milk production.

Some things to keep in mind: First and foremost, the mum should be in a happy environment with no external stress insisting on doing things a certain way. The second thing is that her diet must be well-balanced and nutritious. This means plenty of fruits and vegetables, carbohydrates, and protein should be consumed.