Many new mothers worry about their milk supply while breastfeeding, so it’s not surprising that a 2021 study found 60 percent of them turn to products that promise to increase it.
“You can’t measure how much milk your baby is getting when you breastfeed, and society doesn’t necessarily support women to feel that their bodies are brilliant and effective and awesome,” says Victoria Marshall-Cerins, executive officer at the Australian Breastfeeding Association (ABA).
This creates a marketing opportunity, and new mums are often bombarded with ads for ‘boobie biscuits’ and ‘nursing teas’ on social media.
These products, known as galactagogues, are promoted as effective ways to boost milk supply. Despite testimonials and images of expressed milk from these products, the evidence supporting their effectiveness is limited.
What Are Lactation Cookies?
A galactagogue is a food, herb, or medication believed to help increase breast milk production, explains Evelyn Volders, a pediatric dietitian and lactation consultant at Monash University.
These products are available as cookies, teas, shakes, bars, and supplements. They typically contain ingredients like oats, barley, flaxseed, and brewer’s yeast. Herbs such as fenugreek and milk thistle are common in teas.
Are Galactagogues Effective?
Galactagogues can be natural (like herbs) or synthetic (like medications). While natural galactagogues have been used for centuries, there is little scientific evidence to support their effectiveness, says Volders.
Synthetic galactagogues, like the medication Domperidone, are proven to help some women increase milk supply, explains Dr. Treasure McGuire, a pharmacologist at Bond University and Queensland University. In a 2023 US study on lactation cookies, no significant difference was found between participants consuming either the cookies or a placebo.
In a 2021 Australian study involving over 1,800 breastfeeding women, more than 60 percent reported using galactagogues. Those using herbal or dietary types often got recommendations from the internet or friends, while perceived effectiveness was highest among those using medication.
Dr. McGuire notes that synthetic galactagogues tend to be more effective because their duration of action is longer and their effects are more consistent.
Potential Downsides of Lactation Cookies and Teas
While these products are not harmful, they can undermine women’s confidence in their breastfeeding abilities, says Marshall-Cerins. They may reinforce the idea that women’s bodies are deficient and need additional products to breastfeed successfully.
Volders adds that while some women might feel more confident after making a dietary change, others may feel inadequate, thinking they need these products to breastfeed properly. Commercial portrayals of breastfeeding as difficult can further undermine confidence.
Moreover, some brands charge over $2.50 per cookie, making them an expensive option. Volders suggests there are more affordable ways to snack while breastfeeding, such as homemade recipes, though these can be time-consuming for new mums.
Best Ways to Increase Milk Supply
There are “tried and trusted” methods to increase milk production, says Marshall-Cerins. Breastfeeding operates on a supply-and-demand basis—the more milk removed from the breast, the more milk the body produces. Monitoring wet nappies is a good way to ensure your baby is getting enough milk. At least five heavily wet disposable nappies, or six to eight cloth nappies, in a 24-hour period is a good indicator.
Weight gain and a generally happy and content baby are other signs of adequate breast milk intake. For those with genuine low milk supply, prescribed pharmaceutical galactagogues might be helpful, though they can have side effects. Consulting a doctor or lactation consultant is recommended for personal advice.
