The first week of August marks World Breastfeeding Week and we thought what better way to celebrate than with a tasty Biscuits for Breast Milk !
In Chinese Medicine theory breast milk is an expression of the Blood energetic and Qi (vital energy). It is understood that once a baby is born the Blood that was once nourishing the placenta is now transformed into breast milk. Acupuncture, herbal medicine and a good nourishing diet all assist in stimulating and supporting milk supply. Have a look at our Breastfeeding post for more detailed information.
This recipe is a quick easy way to get some tasty goodness into you. Have a biscuit with a big glass of water at each feed. It will keep those crazy hunger pains at bay and help boost your milk supply.
The reason why they are so good:
Oats: These are a well known lactogenic food. High in saponins they impact the milk-marking hormones produced in the pituitary gland. They also contain antibiotic and anti-inflammatory properties which support the immune system reducing the risk of mastitis.
Flaxseed:Contain phytoestrogens, a plant-based compound that can mildly mimic estrogen. Phytoestrogens are believed to have potential in helping to protect against a variety of health disorders, so they’re good for you whether you’re breastfeeding or not. In addition to flaxseed’s potential lactogenic properties, they are great source of soluble fiber which will keep your bowls soft and regular.
Brewer’s yeast: A super healthy nutritional supplement that contains B vitamins, iron, protein, chromium, selenium, and a ton of other minerals. The high iron and B content is thought to the reason that many women say Brewers yeast help fight post-natal depression and improves energy levels. If you can’t get around to baking biscuits you can take 1-2tsp per day dissolved in water and still get the beneficial effects.
Lactation Biscuit Recipe
INGREDIENTS
1 tbs flaxseed meal
2 tbs water
125g butter
1/2 cup rapadura sugar
1 egg
1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
1/2 tsp ground ginger
1 cup organic unbleached wheat or spelt flour
1/2 tsp baking soda
1 1/2 cups of rolled oats
3/4 cup dried apricots ( or dried fruit or nuts of your choice)
1-2 tbs of brewers yeast
METHOD:
- Preheat the oven to 180 degrees and line a baking try with paper
- In a large bowl mix flax seed meal with the water and then set aside for a few mins
- In a separate bowl cream the butter and the sugar with electric beaters
- Add the egg and continue beating to combine
- Add the flax seed/water mix, cinnamon and ginger. Beat until combined
- In a new bowl sift together the flour, yeast and baking soda the add the oats and your dried fruit
- Stir the dry ingredients into the wet mix until well combined
- Using a spoon or your hands form the mixture into balls and place onto the baking tray.
- You can press them down with the back of a spoon/fork, or leave them as balls as shown in the picture.
- Bake for 8-10 minutes, or until golden brown.
Can be enjoyed by breastfeeding mums and hungry people alike 😉
Some more reading on breastfeeding if you’re keen!
Breastfeeding and Chinese Medicine
World Breast Feeding Week
Do Mothers Make Different Breast milk For Boys And Girls?
The More I Learn About Breast Milk, the More Amazed I Am
Beautiful illustration at the top by Catie Atkinson of www.spiritysol.com
