Boost Your Milk Supply: Three TCM Breastfeeding Tips Every Mom and Mom-to-be Should Know

Breastfeeding is generally acknowledged as the optimal source of nutrition for infants. It gives them an ideal combination of antibodies, proteins, lipids, and carbohydrates, all promoting growth and providing immunity to disease. Following six months of exclusive lactation and the foreword of complementary foods, the World Health Organization advises that the infant be weaned or weaned off until age two. 

Some mothers may have trouble producing enough milk due to hormonal imbalances, tension, or inadequate glandular tissue. Healthcare professionals and lactation consultants must be consulted for assistance and direction in such circumstances. Moreover, an effective and beneficial approach to augmenting milk production could involve investigating natural and alternative remedies, including TCM. 

Concepts and Principles that Govern this Ancient Healing System 

Vital energy (Qi) is profoundly significant in milk production. It governs the transportation and transformation of nutrients and fluids essential for lactation. 

According to Chinese medicine theory, the spleen and stomach convert food and drink to energy and blood, which are then transported to the breasts to produce milk. Conversely, the alveoli withdraw energy to support milk secretion and circulation. Therefore, an equilibrium and synergy of Qi circulation are critical for achieving maximum milk production. 

Energy flow disruptions or compromised states can give rise to many health complications, one of which is diminished milk production. A dominant theme in traditional medicine is its deficiency, distinguished by symptoms including weakness, fatigue, pallid complexion, and susceptibility to catching colds. When considering lactation, energy deficiency can present itself in various ways, such as an unhealthy diet, emotional strain, excessive workload, and insufficient relaxation. It is vital to rectify these fundamental factors and reinstate Qi’s equilibrium to enhance milk provision and promote general health. 

Traditional Chinese Medicine presents a comprehensive and personalised strategy for facilitating lactation. Instead of treating the symptoms, it targets the fundamental causes of reduced milk supply. Identifying and resolving fundamental imbalances, such as energy deficiency, can efficiently stimulate milk production and provide holistic support for the mother. 

Three Key TCM Practices for Increasing Milk Supply 

A balanced and nourishing diet is crucial for maintaining the health and well-being of the mother and baby during breastfeeding. It emphasises the importance of consuming warming and Qi-tonifying foods to support lactation and promote recovery after childbirth. 

1. TCM-recommended foods that promote lactation 

Whole grains: Consuming cooked grains such as brown rice, millet, and oats can help to strengthen the Spleen and Stomach, promoting the transformation of food into Qi and Blood. 

Root vegetables: sweet potatoes, carrots, and beetroot are rich in nutrients and provide a warming energy that supports lactation. 

Lean proteins: Your diet should include moderate amounts of lean proteins such as chicken, fish, and legumes to support milk production and overall health. 

Nourishing soups: Soups made with bone broth, vegetables, and herbs can provide essential nutrients and warmth to support lactation and postpartum recovery. 

Recipes or dietary tips to incorporate these foods into daily meals: 

• Start the day with a warming bowl of oatmeal topped with nuts, seeds, and dried fruit. 

• Include a variety of colourful root vegetables in your meals, such as roasted sweet potatoes, carrots, and beetroot. 

• Prepare nourishing soups with bone broth, vegetables, and herbs, such as chicken and vegetable soup or miso soup with wakame and tofu. 

• Incorporate galactagogue herbs into your diet by adding fenugreek seeds to curries, using fennel seeds in tea, or consuming goat’s rue as a capsule or tincture. 

2. Benefits of acupuncture and acupressure in stimulating milk production 

Stimulating specific points in the body promotes energy and blood flow, supports relaxation, and addresses various health concerns. Acupoints and techniques used for lactation support: 

1. Stomach 36 (Zusanli): This point, situated one finger-width from the outer margin of the leg and four finger-widths below the kneecap, is renowned for facilitating the transformation of food into Qi and Blood and for fortifying the spleen and stomach. 
2. Large Intestine 4 (Hegu): This is found on the highest point of the muscle between the thumb and index finger. It is often used to promote energy and blood flow, alleviate pain, and support lactation. 
3. Spleen 6 (Sanyinjiao): Located four finger-widths above the inner ankle bone and one finger-width towards the back of the leg, this point is known for its ability to nourish Blood and support lactation. 

Additional Chinese medicine therapies that can complement acupuncture: 

• Moxibustion: Applying heat to specific acupoints using mugwort, a dried herb, can help warm and tonify the body, supporting lactation and overall well-being. 

• Cupping: Suction cups applied to specific body areas can help promote blood and energy flow, alleviate pain, and support lactation. 

3. Role of Herbal remedies in Boosting Milk Supply 

Chinese medicine offers a wide range of herbs with galactagogue properties, which can help promote lactation and address underlying imbalances. 

1. Fenugreek (Trigonella foenum-graecum) is a popular galactagogue herb known for increasing milk production and supporting overall health. 
2. Goat’s rue (Galega officinalis) is another well-known that can stimulate milk production and support the health of the mammary glands. 
3. Fennel (Foeniculum vulgare) is often used to promote lactation and alleviate digestive issues in mothers and babies. 

Important Note: Consult a qualified traditional Chinese practitioner or herbalist, such as us at Ren Shan TCM, before using herbal remedies during breastfeeding, as some herbs may have contraindications or interact with medications. 

Lifestyle Adjustments for Optimising Milk Supply 

In addition to proper nutrition and Chinese therapies, lifestyle adjustments can significantly impact milk production and breastfeeding mothers’ overall well-being. 

Stress and emotional well-being play a significant role in milk production. High levels of stress can negatively impact milk supply and overall health. Therefore, breastfeeding mothers must prioritise self-care and stress management as part of their daily routine. 

Practices such as meditation, deep breathing, or gentle exercises: 

1. Meditation can help calm the mind, reduce stress, and promote relaxation. Even a few minutes of meditation each day can significantly improve overall well-being. 
2. Deep breathing exercises can activate the body’s relaxation response, reducing stress and promoting calmness. 
3. Engaging in gentle exercises such as yoga, tai chi, or qigong can help promote relaxation, improve circulation, and support overall health. 

Practical tips for balancing motherhood responsibilities and self-care: 

• Set realistic expectations for yourself and ask for help when needed. 

• Delegate tasks to family members, friends, or hired help to lighten your workload. 

• Establish a daily self-care routine that includes activities you enjoy, such as reading, taking a warm bath, or spending time in nature. 

Sleep and rest are essential for the body to function optimally, including milk production. Adequate sleep can help to restore energy, support immune function, and promote overall well-being for breastfeeding mothers. 

Tips for improving sleep quality and creating a conducive sleep environment: 

1. Going to bed and waking up simultaneously daily can help regulate your body’s internal clock and improve sleep quality. 
2. Ensure your bedroom is dark, quiet, and cool to promote restful sleep. 
3. Limit exposure to screens and electronic devices before bedtime. Screens emit blue light that can interfere with sleep, so it’s best to avoid using electronic devices at least an hour before bed. 

Relaxation techniques or rituals to promote deeper sleep: 

1. Acupressure: Gently massaging specific acupoints, such as the Yintang point (between the eyebrows) or the Shenmen point (on the ear), can help promote relaxation and improve sleep quality. 
2. Warm foot bath: Soaking your feet warm with Epsom salts and essential oils can help relax the body and promote restful sleep. 
3. Herbal tea: Consuming a warm cup of herbal tea, such as chamomile or lavender, before bed can help to calm the mind and promote relaxation. 

Let Ren Shan TCM Support Your Breastfeeding Journey – Book Now! 

We encourage you to explore our website to learn more about our services and how Ren Shan TCM can assist you in your lactation journey or address other health concerns. Our team is readily equipped to offer individualised and empathetic assistance regarding pain management, lactation support, pregnancy, or general health.  

We also go beyond traditional support to offer services uniquely tailored to the youngest members of your family. Find out how we can enrich your child’s health and development journey. From specialised children’s acupressure massage that soothes and supports targeted cough, flu, and infant development care. Let us be a part of your family’s path to health – explore our services and see how we can cater specifically to your child’s needs.