Lactation Cookie Recipe with a Side of Love.
Calling all breastfeeding moms! Have you heard of lactation cookies? Not only are they a delightful treat, but they also offer a sweet boost to your milk supply. In this article, we'll explore why lactation cookies are a helpful addition to your breastfeeding journey, share a mouthwatering lactation cookies recipe, and I'll also share a little story about how lactation cookies found their way into my breastfeeding experience.
Why Lactation Cookies Are Helpful:
Nutrient-Packed Goodies: Lactation cookies are like a hug for your milk production. They're crafted with ingredients that can support your body's natural milk-making processes while providing essential nutrients for both you and your baby.
Convenient and Delicious: What's better than a tasty snack that can potentially boost your milk supply? Lactation cookies offer a convenient way to incorporate milk-enhancing ingredients into your diet, all while satisfying your sweet tooth.
Enjoyable and Relaxing: Taking a moment to savor a lactation cookie during a busy day can be a soothing ritual. The act of self-care and indulgence can promote relaxation, which is beneficial for breastfeeding success.
The Gift of Lactation Cookies
During the early days of motherhood, every moment is a beautiful yet challenging adventure. I had just welcomed my first son into the world. Like many new moms, I was navigating the ups and downs of breastfeeding, hoping to provide the best nourishment for my little one.
In the midst of sleepless nights and countless diaper changes, I received an unexpected and heartwarming gift from a dear friend. It was a bag filled with homemade lactation cookies, crafted with love and care. I was touched by my friend's gesture of support and decided to give the cookies a try.
As I savored those delectable treats during my quiet moments of breastfeeding, I noticed something wonderful. My milk supply seemed to be flourishing. The cookies, packed with oats, brewer's yeast, flaxseed, and other milk-boosting ingredients, appeared to be making a significant difference.
But it wasn't just about the cookies; it was about the love and friendship that came with them. I felt the warmth of my friend's support with every bite, and it gave me the encouragement I needed during those early days of motherhood.
As I continued to enjoy the cookies and cherish the bond with my baby, I realized that sometimes, the most precious gifts are the ones that come from the heart. My friend's thoughtful gesture not only nourished my milk supply but also filled my heart with gratitude and a reminder that I was never alone on this incredible journey of motherhood.
How Key Ingredients Boost Milk Supply:
Oats are often considered a powerhouse when it comes to supporting lactation. Here's how they work their magic:
Rich in Complex Carbohydrates: Oats are an excellent source of complex carbohydrates, which provide a steady release of energy. For lactating moms, this sustained energy can be crucial, especially during nighttime feedings and busy days.
Fiber for Digestive Health: Oats are packed with dietary fiber, which aids in digestion. A healthy digestive system can absorb nutrients more efficiently, ensuring that your body has what it needs to produce an ample milk supply.
Iron and Other Nutrients: Oats contain iron, an essential nutrient for both mom and baby. Adequate iron levels are necessary for red blood cell production and overall energy levels. Oats also provide other vital vitamins and minerals, including B-vitamins.
Satiety and Appetite Control: Oats have a high satiety factor, meaning they help you feel fuller for longer. This can be beneficial for moms who may be concerned about maintaining their weight while breastfeeding.
Brewer's yeast is another superstar in the realm of lactation support. Here's why it's often recommended:
B Vitamins for Energy: Brewer's yeast is loaded with B vitamins, particularly B1 (thiamine), B2 (riboflavin), B3 (niacin), and B5 (pantothenic acid). These vitamins are essential for energy production and overall well-being.
Galactagogue Properties: Brewer's yeast is believed to have galactagogue properties, meaning it may help stimulate milk production. It's thought to work by providing nutrients that support the body's natural milk-making processes.
Protein and Nutrient Content: Brewer's yeast is a source of high-quality protein, which is essential for tissue repair and growth. It also contains minerals like chromium, selenium, and zinc.
Boosting Mood: Some women find that brewer's yeast has mood-enhancing effects, which can be especially beneficial during the postpartum period when hormonal changes can affect mood.
Flaxseed is a versatile ingredient with numerous health benefits. When it comes to lactation, here's how flaxseed can contribute:
Omega-3 Fatty Acids: Flaxseed is one of the richest plant-based sources of alpha-linolenic acid (ALA), a type of omega-3 fatty acid. Omega-3s are essential for brain development in infants and can also support overall health in both mom and baby.
Phytoestrogens: Flaxseed contains phytoestrogens, which are plant compounds that mimic the hormone estrogen in the body. While not a direct source of estrogen, these compounds can potentially have a mild hormonal effect that may help with milk production.
Fiber and Digestive Health: Like oats, flaxseed is an excellent source of dietary fiber, which aids digestion and nutrient absorption. A healthy digestive system can ensure that you're absorbing all the necessary nutrients to support milk production.
The Lactation Cookie Recipe:
Ingredients:
1 cup organic steel cut oats
3/4 cup gluten free flour
1/2 cup almond butter (or your preferred nut butter)
1/2 cup honey or maple syrup
1/4 cup brewer's yeast
1/4 cup organic ground flaxseed
1/4 cup coconut oil
1/4 cup water
1 tsp vanilla extract
1/2 tsp baking soda
1/2 tsp salt
1/2 cup chocolate chips or dried fruit (optional)
2 tbsp lactation herb blend (fenugreek, blessed thistle, and fennel) (optional)
Instructions:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
In a large mixing bowl, combine almond butter, honey (or maple syrup), coconut oil, and vanilla extract.
In a separate bowl, mix rolled oats, whole wheat flour, brewer's yeast, ground flaxseed, baking soda, salt, lactation herb blend, and chocolate chips (or dried fruit, if using).
Slowly add the dry mixture to the wet mixture, stirring until well combined. Add water as needed to achieve a dough-like consistency.
Drop spoonfuls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet and flatten each cookie slightly with the back of a spoon.
Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges turn golden brown.
Allow the cookies to cool on a wire rack and enjoy!