Juggling the responsibilities of a nursing mother can often feel like a constant balancing act, with your baby on one side and a never-ending list of chores on the other. In the midst of this chaos, taking time for self-care can easily be overlooked. It's essential to understand that taking care of yourself is just as vital as caring for your baby, including that little life requirement, eating. Enter lactation cookies- your new breast friend!
Lactation cookies are no ordinary cookies. They are a great snack option for nursing moms, offering a delicious and convenient way to support milk production. They typically contain key ingredients like oats, brewer's yeast, and flaxseed, known as galactagogues, which aid in increasing breast milk supply. Besides boosting lactation, these cookies are packed with essential nutrients that help keep energy levels up during the demanding months of motherhood.
Do Lactation Cookies Really Work?
Lactation cookies contain galactagogues, substances that stimulate milk production and bolster milk supply. The combination of oats, brewer's yeast, and flaxseed, common ingredients in lactation cookies, provide a rich source of iron, protein, vitamins B1 and B2, as well as essential minerals like magnesium and zinc. These healthy ingredients not only sustain milk production but they also contribute to postpartum recovery and provide a much-needed energy boost.
Although lactation cookies can assist many mothers in increasing milk production, it's important to note that they aren't a magical solution. They can help boost milk supply, but they work best when combined with other healthy habits like staying hydrated, getting enough rest, and breastfeeding on demand.
Homemade vs. Store-Bought
Baking your own lactation cookies allows you the flexibility to control the ingredients and play around with different flavors and textures to suit your personal preference. You can also adjust the number of galactagogues, ensuring you get the right amount to support lactation. However, this might be time-consuming, particularly for busy new moms juggling multiple responsibilities.
On the other hand, store-bought lactation cookies offer convenience and ease. They are ready to eat, available in various flavors, and have a consistent recipe with a precise amount of galactagogues in each cookie. The caveat is that they might contain preservatives and be a bit more expensive than homemade versions. Whether you opt for the do-it-yourself route or select store-bought lactation cookie bites, the choice ultimately comes down to personal preference, convenience, and dietary needs.
Key Ingredients to Boost Milk Supply
Let's delve into some key ingredients that are known for their milk-boosting properties.
Fenugreek is a popular ingredient in lactation cookies, known for its galactagogue properties that can help stimulate milk production. This herb has been used for centuries and is often the top choice for many nursing moms who want to boost their milk supply.
Brewer’s Yeast is another staple ingredient in lactation cookies. It's a type of yeast that is rich in B vitamins, iron, protein, and other minerals that nursing moms need.
Oats are rich in iron, an essential mineral needed to maintain milk production. Oats also pack a ton of fiber to help keep your digestion on the move.
Flaxseeds are tiny nutritional powerhouses that contain phytoestrogens which influence breast milk production. Plus, they are a good source of omega-3s and fiber.
The Best Lactation Cookie Recipes to Make at Home
Making lactation cookies at home is fun, and easy, and allows you to customize the ingredients to your liking. Plus, you'll have a fresh batch of delicious cookies on hand whenever that craving hits!
Here are some delicious lactation cookie recipes:
- Apricot Almond Coconut No-Bake Bites
- Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Lactation Cookies
- Oatmeal Chocolate Chip Lactation Cookies
- Almond Joy Lactation Bites
- Pumpkin Spice Lactation Cookies
- Gluten-free Vegan Lactation Cookies
- Paleo Lactation Cookies
Our Favorite Store-Bought Lactation Cookies
For those hectic days when making homemade lactation cookie bites is just not in the cards, reach for a box of store-bought lactation cookies instead. Some of our favorites include:
- Munchkin Milkmakers
- Mommy Knows Mini Lactation Cookies
- Chocolate Chip Booby Boons Lactation Cookies®
- Majka Lactation Bites
How to Store Lactation Cookies
Whether you're making your own or buying a pack of the best lactation cookies, proper storage is key to maintaining their freshness and efficacy.
Best Practices for Storing Homemade Cookies
Start by allowing them to cool completely before storing. Next, find an airtight container and line the bottom with parchment paper. Arrange your cookies in a single layer, add another parchment layer, and continue the process. Store your container in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight or in the freezer.
Shelf-life of Store-bought Lactation Cookies
Most brands will have an expiration date printed on the packaging. Once opened, always reseal the package or transfer the cookies to an airtight container. If you won't eat them all within a week, consider storing them in the freezer. They'll last longer and they taste surprisingly good cold!
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For more on nursing and postpartum, like how the hell to dress yourself in nursing friendly outfits, check out the motherhood section of my blog, and don’t forget to follow me on Instagram. I can’t wait to hear more about your breastfeeding journey!
Feature image by Michael Kim from corelens
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