If you are having trouble breastfeeding, you are not alone. It is very common for new mothers to struggle with having a low milk supply.

Breastfeeding for some is a difficult task. Along with pain and trouble getting the baby to latch, low milk supply is one of the most distressing concerns for new moms. But, there are steps that can be taken to help a dwindling milk supply.

Lactation cookies are small cookies packed with vitamins and nutrients to help breastfeeding mothers produce milk. 

But how do they work?

According to Stephanie Middleberg, a registered dietitian in New York, the ingredients contained in the cookies are highly nutritious and great for increasing milk flow. However, they should be coupled with hydration and healthy eating to receive full benefits.

The ingredients include oats, flax seeds, fenugreek and nutritional yeast.

Oats

Oats are also packed with protein, vitamins, and minerals, says Middleberg. But, they also contain high concentration of saponins. Saponins are an immune-stimulating compound that may help increase levels of prolactin, a key hormone for milk production.

Fenugreek

Fenugreek is a plant that offers a lot of health benefits. It contains phytoestrogen, a compound that helps to regulate estrogen in the body. According to Middleberg, when estrogen levels are regulated, it increases prolactin and milk production.

Flaxseed

Flaxseeds contain healthy fatty acids such as omega-3 and omega-6. Middleberg explained that these acids are good for a babies immune system and can help to prevent allergies. If a mother eats flaxseeds, through breastfeeding she can provide her baby with these nutrients.

Nutritional Yeast

The most common type of yeast used for lactation cookies is Brewer’s yeast. Though this specific yeast is not traced to breastfeeding, it contains high levels of vitamin B. B vitamins are particularly important for nursing moms. They are involved in many of the body’s processes such as milk production Middleberg explains.