NUNZIUM

Breastfeeding is widely regarded as the gold standard for infant nutrition, with the American Academy of Pediatrics endorsing exclusive breastfeeding for the first six months of life. However, only 26% of U.S. infants are exclusively breastfed at six months, with insufficient milk production being the primary reason for breastfeeding cessation. To increase milk supply, many mothers use galactagogues – substances that stimulate milk production – but their safety and efficacy remain uncertain. A recent study in the Journal of the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics explores the prevalence of galactagogue use among breastfeeding mothers in the United States and emphasizes the need for further research on their safety and efficacy.

Conducted between December 2020 and February 2021, the study involved a cross-sectional online survey of 1,294 adult women breastfeeding a singleton child in the U.S. Results showed that 58% of participants reported using galactagogues, with 55% using foods and beverages, 28% using herbal products, and 1.4% using pharmaceuticals. Over 40% of participants identified oats, lactation cookies, brewer's yeast, alcoholic beer, sports drinks, and combinations of herbal products as effective galactagogues for increasing milk production.

The study found higher intake of galactagogues among older or currently employed mothers, those who delivered through cesarean section, or first-time breastfeeding mothers. This high prevalence highlights the need for future research on the safety and efficacy of commonly used galactagogues and supportive initiatives to educate breastfeeding mothers about best practices for increasing milk production and meeting breastfeeding goals.

Perceived insufficient milk is a major reason for early breastfeeding cessation, and the use of galactagogues is a common strategy employed by breastfeeding mothers to increase milk supply. However, there is limited evidence on the safety and efficacy of these substances, and the Academy of Breastfeeding Medicine does not recommend using galactagogues due to a lack of safety and efficacy information.

The study's main outcome measures were self-reported current or previous use of galactagogues and their perceived effects on milk production. Results revealed varying effects of specific galactagogues on milk production, with higher galactagogue use among first-time breastfeeding, breastfeeding pumped milk, formula supplementation, and perceived insufficient milk.

In conclusion, breastfeeding mothers in the U.S. commonly report using galactagogues to increase milk supply, underscoring the need for more research on the safety and efficacy of these substances and enhanced breastfeeding support. As the demand for effective and safe ways to increase milk production grows, healthcare professionals and researchers must collaborate to better understand the potential benefits and risks associated with galactagogue use. In the meantime, breastfeeding mothers should consult with their healthcare providers and seek evidence-based guidance on best practices for increasing milk production and meeting their breastfeeding goals.