News Tagged "breastfeeding" Page 5

4 Lesser Known Benefits of Breastfeeding

By Kelsey Garlock May 02, 2024

Here are a few of the less commonly known benefits of breastfeeding.

1. Natural Vaccination: It's a well-known fact that breast milk provides babies with essential nutrients. However, it's less commonly understood that breast milk also acts in some ways as a natural vaccine. The milk contains antibodies that help the baby's immune system fight off viruses and bacteria. This protection is unique and changes to meet the baby's needs.

2. Cognitive Development Boost: The act of breastfeeding is not just a feeding process, but also a developmental tool. It has been linked to high IQ scores in later childhood. The skin-to-skin contact and eye contact experienced during breastfeeding may also enhance the emotional bond between mother and baby and contribute to the child's emotional and social development.

3. Reduced Risk of Future Health Issues for Mothers: Breastfeeding can also have long-term health benefits for the mother. It reduces the risk of breast and ovarian cancer. Few people know, it can also lower the risk of rheumatoid arthritis, cardiovascular disease, and type 2 diabetes.

4. Natural Contraceptive (SORT OF!): When practiced under certain conditions, breastfeeding can act as a natural contraceptive. This phenomenon, known as Lactational Amenorrhea, can help with child spacing. However, it's important to note that this is not a 100% effective method and should not be entirely relied upon for birth control, please... :)

Top Tips for Increasing Your Breastmilk Supply

By Kelsey Garlock April 27, 2024

Are you concerned about your milk supply and looking give it a boost? Well, you've come to the right place! Whether you're a new mom or a seasoned pro, we've got some top tips to help you increase your milk production and keep that liquid gold flowing. So, grab a cup of tea, put your feet up, and let's dive into some tried and true methods for boosting your breastmilk supply.

1) Stay Hydrated: Hydration is key when it comes to milk production. Make sure you're drinking plenty of water throughout the day to keep your body well-hydrated and your milk supply flowing.

2) Nurse or Pump Frequently: Lactation is a supply and demand system. The more you empty your breasts, the more milk your body will produce. Try to nurse or pump frequently, at least 8-12 times a day, to signal to your body that it needs to make more milk.

3) Practice Skin-to-Skin Contact: Skin-to-skin contact with your baby can help stimulate milk production and release hormones that support breastfeeding. So, snuggle up with your little one as often as you can! Babywearing with little one in a diaper and mom topless or in only a bra is a great idea!

**Pro tip - throw a full zip Movemama nursing sweatshirt on over your carrier with the zipper fully open so baby's head is through the hole. Both of you stay cozy and covered while getting that sweet skin-to-skin

4) Eat a Healthy Diet: Fuel your body with nutrient-rich foods that support milk production, such as whole grains, leafy greens, and lean proteins. Consider adding lactation-boosting foods like oats, and flaxseeds to your diet. Getting enough calories is crucial to having lots of energy and supporting your supply. Be sure not to under-eat.

5) Get Plenty of Rest: Rest is crucial for milk production, we know it's easier said than done - but do your best to prioritize sleep and taking time to relax and unwind. Remember, self-care is just as important as taking care of your little one. Leaving dishes undone in the sink so you can get some extra zzz's is OKAY.

6) Seek Support: Don't be afraid to reach out for help and support if you're struggling with breastfeeding. Talk to a lactation consultant, join a breastfeeding support group, or connect with other moms who have been through it before. If nothing else is working there could be something deeper to investigate.

Personally, my firstborn had tongue ties that restricted her ability to latch and efficiently remove milk... a lactation consultant can help identify these kinds of physiological factors with their expertise!

7) Give yourself grace: Remember, every drop of breastmilk you produce is a gift to your baby. Stay positive, be patient with yourself, and trust in your body's amazing ability to nourish and nurture your little one.

So, there you have it! Follow these top tips for increasing your breastmilk supply, and you'll be on your way to being a milk-making machine in no time. Keep up the great work, and remember, you're doing an amazing job!

- Kelsey Garlock

Founder Movemama Apparel