Not only pregnant women, the benefits of Moringa leaves for breastfeeding mothers have also long been known among the public. The various nutritional contents in it are known to increase breast milk production, so it is good for the growth and development of your baby.
In general, breastfeeding mothers need more calories to meet daily nutritional intake and ensure breast milk production remains smooth.
To increase nutrient intake, breastfeeding mothers are advised to consume healthy foods for breastfeeding mothers such as brown rice, lean meat, eggs, nuts and fruits and vegetables, including moringa leaves.
Moringa leaves (Moringa oleifera) are known to contain several vitamins and minerals such as vitamin A, vitamin B6, vitamin C, iron and magnesium. Moringa leaves also contain amino acids and antioxidants, which are essential for breastfeeding mothers.
Various Benefits of Moringa Leaves for Breastfeeding Mothers
Because of its nutritional content, the benefits of Moringa leaves for breastfeeding mothers are varied, including:
1. Facilitates breast milk production
Moringa leaves have long been known as a lactation stimulating food. The benefits of Moringa leaves for breastfeeding mothers come from the presence of phytosterols, which can stimulate and facilitate breast milk production. Apart from consuming Moringa leaves, breastfeeding mother also recommends breastfeeding your baby more often or expressing your milk to increase breast milk production.
2. Increase body endurance
When caring for your baby, especially in the first few weeks after birth, breastfeeding mother may often wake up at night or stay up late to breastfeed or change his nappy. This change in routine will certainly require a stronger immune system so that breastfeeding mother doesn’t get sick and tired easily.
To maintain the body’s immune system, breastfeeding mothers can consume vegetables that are rich in vitamin C and antioxidants, such as Moringa leaves. In addition to boosting immunity, the benefits of Moringa leaves for breastfeeding mothers can also protect the body from exposure to free radicals.
3. Maintain healthy bones and teeth
During breastfeeding, lactating mothers are at risk of losing bone density and developing osteoporosis. To prevent this condition, breastfeeding mothers can consume Moringa leaves, which are rich in calcium. Moringa leaves are also known to be good for maintaining healthy teeth.
4. Repair damaged body tissue
The vitamin C content of Moringa leaves is believed to be beneficial for breastfeeding mothers to aid the healing process of wounds caused by tears in the birth canal or episiotomy. Moringa leaves may also prevent the development of keloids, especially in mothers who have had a caesarean section.
5. Prevent anemia
Nursing mothers are susceptible to anaemia because of the large amount of blood they lose during childbirth or because they do not get enough iron each day. This condition can be characterised by fatigue, weakness, pale skin and even shortness of breath.
Eating iron-rich vegetables such as Moringa leaves can increase red blood cell production and prevent anaemia. Moringa leaves are also rich in vitamin C, which can maximize iron absorption in the body.
Apart from the various benefits of Moringa leaves for breastfeeding mothers listed above, Moringa leaves are also believed to be beneficial for the uterus. Although the consumption of Moringa leaves offers many benefits for breastfeeding mothers, more research is needed to ensure its effectiveness and safety.
Therefore, breastfeeding mothers are still advised to balance their nutritional intake by eating a balanced, nutritious diet, meeting their fluid needs and avoiding caffeinated or fizzy drinks.
If you are having problems while breastfeeding, such as low milk production or milk that doesn’t flow properly, don’t hesitate to consult your doctor to find the right way or solution.