At a recent meeting with a group of young, breastfeeding mothers, I learned that oatmeal is supposed to boost milk supply. While it is not scientifically proven, many mothers report an increase in milk production after eating oatmeal, or products containing oatmeal.
I’ve never had a problem with too little milk; in fact, the only “problem” I’ve had is too much milk. I’ve always counted myself lucky that supply was never an issue, because I have a strong desire to breastfeed well past my daughter’s first birthday. Although I’ve never had a problem with too little milk, I want to safeguard myself against ever facing that dilemma.
Eating oatmeal is an easy, healthy thing I can do to protect my liquid gold. I like plain oatmeal, and I eat it almost every morning for breakfast. I did it before I knew it was good for my milk supply, and I’m definitely going to continue. Let’s be honest, though: plain oatmeal probably isn’t everyone’s favorite food. It’s a little bland, a little mushy, and if you want it to be healthy, adding loads of brown sugar isn’t a good option.
In this blog, I’ll give some suggestions to liven up oatmeal. In future blogs, I’ll share recipes that include oatmeal, for those of you whose noses might wrinkle at the thought eating it regularly.
First of all, I suggest buying plain oatmeal in a tub, not in flavored packets. It doesn’t really matter whether it’s the instant variety or not. I always have felt that the closer your food is to the way it was when it was harvested, the better it is for you. Packets with added flavor and preservatives, while very tasty, just aren’t as healthy.
Some of my favorite ways to fix oatmeal:
1. Add cinnamon, nutmeg, and vanilla. It gives the illusion of sweetness, without needing sugar.
2. Add raisins, or any other dried fruit, for that matter. If you add them while you’re cooking the oatmeal, not after the oatmeal is already cooked, they turn nice and soft.
3. Add fresh fruit, such as blueberries, strawberries, or bananas.
4. Instead of pouring cow’s milk over your oatmeal, buy rice milk. It’s sweet, and it comes in plain or vanilla.
5. Mix oatmeal with your favorite flavor of yogurt.
Breastfeeding is one of the best things you can do for your baby. Keep your supply up by eating oatmeal.