Much like fertility, pregnancy, and birth, the breastfeeding journey is wildly different from mother to mother. It’s a walk in the park for some and for others, well, not so much. Breastfeeding is a tango. It takes two and requires a generous dose of patience. Research suggests that one of the main reasons mothers give up on breastfeeding is due to concerns about milk supply. When a mother feels (or is told) her supply is low, formula is usually introduced to supplement. However, this switch can lead to less breastfeeding and less pumping. This deprivation can actually lead to a mother’s milk supply dropping even more. Breast milk production works on supply and demand, so it’s in the best interest of a nursing mother who wants to keep producing to keep up the frequency of feedings and pumping even if she’s supplementing with formula.
There are a number of ways to encourage milk production. A proper diet, good hydration, and adequate sleep all play an important role (easier said than done, of course). If you are a new or expecting mom, I can assume you’ve been given advice on the dos and don’ts from everyone and anyone. People love to tell new moms what to do! One of the many things I have learned as a doula is that there is no “right way.” Every body and every baby are so incredibly unique. It’s all about discovering what’s right for you and your baby and learning that tango together. So if there is an ingredient in this recipe that doesn’t sit well for you or your baby, then leave it out or substitute it.
These no-bake cookies contain oats, almonds, collagen, brewer’s yeast, and flaxseed meal, which provide beneficial nutrients and healthy fats helpful for lactation. Although a cookie may not cure all your breastfeeding challenges, at the very least this delicious treat may bring you some joy and boost those oxytocin levels (which is also a milk-producing essential).
This lactation cookie recipe is one of my favorites to share with my clients. Not only because it is delicious and nutrient-dense, but also because it’s easy! Let’s face it, what new mom has time to bake herself cookies?
No-Bake Lactation Cookies
Recipe Type:Dessert
Dietary Info:Gluten-Free, Sugar-Free, Dairy-Free, Collagen Infused
Prep Time:20 min.
Cook Time:30 min.
Total Time:50 min.
Ingredients:
1/4 cup chopped almonds
2 cups gluten-free rolled oats
1/2 cup organic flaxseed meal
1/2 cup almond butter
1/2 cup melted coconut butter
1 teaspoon vanilla
2 tablespoons Vital Proteins collagen
3 tablespoons brewer’s yeast
1/2 cup honey
1/2 cup dark chocolate chips
A pinch of pink Himalayan salt
Instructions:
1. Roast chopped almonds in a pan for 2-3 minutes on medium to high heat.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine oats, flaxseed meal, almond butter, melted coconut butter, vanilla, collagen, brewer’s yeast, honey, roasted almonds, and chocolate chips.
3. Mix in a standing mixer on low until evenly mixed.
4. Roll and pack into individuals balls on a cookie sheet or plate.
5. Sprinkle salt on top of cookies.
6. Place in refrigerator and let sit for at least 30 minutes. Best when refrigerated overnight.
Carson Meyer is a California-based birth doula, actress, and founder of the non-toxic and eco-friendly skincare company C & The Moon. In 2016, Carson graduated from New York University where she studied alternative health and the mind/body connection. Carson returned home to Malibu and received her birth doula certification and has been supporting families through their transition to parenthood ever since.
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