13 Best Lactation Supplements Of 2023

If you have issues with breast milk supply, choosing the best lactation supplements prescribed or recommended by your doctor is the way to go. Lactation supplements are nutritious and help improve your breast milk supply.

In this post, we apprise you of the various kinds of supplements that you can explore. The options we have listed here come in different sizes and flavors and solid and liquid forms. However, take them after you consult with your doctor first. Also, note that the products listed here are for information purposes only and should not be considered a replacement for your doctor’s prescription or recommendation.

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Are Lactation Supplements Safe?

You can take lactation supplements only if your doctor recommends, as some supplements could have ingredients with potential side effects that could be detrimental for yours and the baby’s well-being. Some of the common galactagogues that are available in most lactation supplements arefenugreek, fennel, blessed thistle, Goat’s Rue, milk thistle, and Shatavari.

While fennel and fenugreek are considered safe and beneficial by FDA for nursing mothers, the other ingredients have been known to provide results but with some side effects. So, it is essential to be careful and disregard the supplement in such a scenario.

13 Best Lactation Supplements

Nursing mothers have unique nutritional requirements. Hence, it is always better to go with the product that is approved by your doctor.Also, not all supplements are known to be effective.

1.Best Medicinal-Grade Herb:Traditional Medicinals Organic Mother’s Milk Herbal Supplement

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Traditional Medicinals Organic Mother’s Milk Herbal Supplement 图片:Traditional Medicinals
Why It's Worth Buying:The 15,847 positive customer reviews on Amazon attest to the product’s quality.
Price at the time of publication: $26.99

The herbal tea made with fenugreek and fennel has a sweet taste.It contains organic herbs and is free of caffeine. This lactation supplement comes in a pack of six, with 16 tea bags in each. For a more detailed review of this product, here’sa video.

Pros

  • Contains compostabletea bags
  • Clinically tested by a lactation consultant
  • Medicinal-grade herbs used
  • A slight taste of licorice might linger after

Cons

Flavor could be strong for some
Fenugreek may not be suitable for all

2.Best For Digestion:UpSpring Baby Milkflow Lactation Supplement Drink Mix

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UpSpring Baby Milkflow Lactation Supplement Drink Mix 图片:Upspring
Price at the time of publication: $14.97

The chocolate-flavored lactation supplement powder can be mixed in hot or cold milk or added to a cup of yogurt or smoothie.It is known to help you stay hydrated and is intended topromote breast milk supply.The box includes 18 sachets, and the supplement is made with natural ingredients, including dairy and soy.

Pros

  • Tastes sweet and chocolatey
  • Aids healthy milk production
  • Non-GMO and gluten-free
  • Contains blessed thistle and fenugreek
  • Helps in digestion

Cons

  • Could cause gastric problems for some
  • Could be discomforting

3.Best Safe For Mother And Baby:Pure Co Breastfeeding Supplement

Why It's Worth Buying:The product boasts 5,787 reviews on Amazon, and many buyers have said they would purchase the product again.
Price at the time of publication: $19.97

The herbal blend is made with organic ingredients such as milk thistle, fennel, and fenugreek to improve breastmilk supply.Onebottleof this lactation supplement contains 60 capsules that could ideally be enough for a month.

Pros

  • Made with non-GMO ingredients
  • Vegan, gluten-free, and organic
  • Free from fillers and flow ingredients
  • Designed to aid healthy milk supply
  • Said to be safe for mother and baby

Cons

  • Could cause gastric problems in some
protip_icon Do remember
Individuals allergic to peanuts/chickpeas and those taking blood thinners or medication for diabetes should speak to a doctor before taking a fenugreek supplement for lactation-related purposes (3).

4.Best Easy-To-Consume:Benevolent Nourishment Lactation Support

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Benevolent Nourishment Lactation Support 图片:Benevolent
Price at the time of publication: $24.97

Available in liquid form, the herbal lactation supplement is made with unique ingredients.It offers a pleasant taste and is recommended by lactation specialists for a boost in breast milk production.You may take one or two drops in a day, or as recommended by the doctor or lactation specialist.

Pros

  • 100% organic ingredients used
  • Provides ideal nutrition to the baby
  • Made with moringa leaf, anise, and fenugreek seed
  • Easy to consume
  • Doesn’t have additives or fillers
  • Free from alcohol, GMO, and sugar

Cons

  • Could be gassy for some

5.Best Convenient Bottle:Mommy Knows Best Goat’s Rue Lactation Supplement

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Mommy Knows Best Goat’s Rue Lactation Supplement 图片:Mommy Knows Best
Price at the time of publication: $14.97

The easy-to-swallow lactation pills are made with natural Goat Rue herb powder, which is considered to be one of the potent herbs to promote breast milk supply in nursing mothers. The capsules are natural and are said to be allergy-friendly. Know more about this product inthis video.

Pros

  • 100% vegetarian
  • Contains 120 capsules
  • Free from gluten, soy, egg, and nuts
  • Comes in a convenient bottle
  • High-quality, safe for mothers
  • All-natural and GMP-certified

Cons

  • 有些宝宝可能会引起不适

6.Best Absorbed Easily:Rejuvica Health Natal Nourish Breast Milk Enhancer

Why It's Worth Buying:More than 3,734 buyers on Amazon have said the product lives up to the hype.
Price at the time of publication: $99.0

The liquid herbal formula is made with all-natural ingredients such as fennel, turmeric, fenugreek seed, anise seed, blessed thistle, and red raspberry. It is a fast-acting formula that supports lactation and promotes a healthy milk supply.

Pros

  • Available in three sizes
  • Easy-to-use supplement
  • Has a pleasant flavor
  • Gets absorbed easily
  • Natural breast milk production formula

Cons

  • May not be effective for all

7.Best Sugar-Free:Legendairy Milk Liquid Gold Herbal Breastfeeding Supplement

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Legendairy Milk Liquid Gold Herbal Breastfeeding Supplement 图片:Legendairy
Price at the time of publication: $19.98

Legendairy Milk’s Liquid Gold is a lactation supplement formulated to boost women’s breast milk production. These capsules containorganic ingredients,including shavatri, milk thistle, anise seed, and alfalfa, which are known for their lactogenic properties.

Pros

  • Free of fennel and artificial additives
  • Sugar-and soy-free formulation
  • Made of non-GMO ingredients
  • Vegan-friendly

Cons

  • Might take time to show results
protip_icon Quick fact
Besides guided supplement use, emptying your breasts at least eight times a day by nursing or pumping may help promote breast milk production and supply (4).

8.Best For Immunity And Mood:New Chapter Postnatal Vitamin and Lactation Supplement

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Price at the time of publication: $71.68

The expert formula is made for nursing mothers to provide postnatal support and promote healthy breast milk production. It is made with organic ingredients such as oats, kelp, and turmeric to offer overall good health to new mothers.

Pros

  • Vegetarian, non-GMO, and kosher
  • 支持s immunity and mood
  • Three-in-one formula with vitamins and minerals
  • Free of gluten, synthetic fibers, and animal gelatin
  • Available in four sizes

Cons

  • Could cause gastric problems in some

9.Best To Enhances Breast Milk Nutrition:Vitanica LactationBlend Nursing Support

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Vitanica LactationBlend Nursing Support 图片:Vitanica
Price at the time of publication: $20.95

这个植物配方包括素食成分,such as fennel seeds, chaste tree berry, blessed thistle leaf and stem, and hops flower, which help deliver a calming effect to the mother and the baby. Each bottle of this supplement contains 60 capsules.

Pros

  • Increases milk supply
  • Enhances breast milk nutrition and flow
  • 支持s digestion
  • Made of non-GMO herbs

Cons

  • Could cause gastric issues
  • May not taste great

10.Best All-Natural:Gaia Herbs Lactation Support

Price at the time of publication: $24.64

Made with natural ingredients, this fenugreek lactation supplement promotes healthy breast milk supply. It is available in two variations, in packs of 60 and 120. The capsules also improve nutrition in breast milk.

Pros

  • All-natural and vegan
  • Gluten and soy-free
  • Available in different packages
  • Made with fennel seed and marshmallow root
  • Provides a nutritive boost to nursing mothers

Cons

  • Could have a strong smell
  • May not suit all babies

11.Best Safe For New Mothers:The Honest Company Postnatal Lactation Plus

Price at the time of publication: $34.99

Every serving of this lactation supplement contains a mixture of organic ingredients such as marshmallow, Shatavari, and milk thistle. It is reviewed by doctors and lactation consultants and claims to support healthy milk production in nursing mothers.

Pros

  • Easy-to-swallow capsules
  • Gluten-free and non-GMO
  • Free of soy, dairy, eggs, and other allergens
  • Safe and healthy for new mothers
  • A balanced nutritional formula

Cons

  • Could be discomforting for some babies

12.Best Taste:Active Formulations Lactation Support

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Benevolent Nourishment Lactation Support 图片:Benevolent
Price at the time of publication: $24.97

The lactation supplement is made with 100% natural ingredients to improve your breast health and increase the breast milk supply. It contains fenugreek, which is safe and beneficial for breastfeeding mothers.

Pros

  • Provides a good taste overall
  • Ingredients extracted from powerful herbs
  • 摆脱转基因、糖、酒精和填料
  • Available in liquid form
  • Easy to consume and absorb

Cons

  • Could reduce production in some

13.Best For Gut Health:VH Nutrition Fenugreek Capsules For Lactation

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VH Nutrition Fenugreek Capsules For Lactation 图片:Vh Nutrition
Price at the time of publication: $11.29

The VH Nutrition fenugreek capsules are a lactation supplement for increasing milk production in breastfeeding mothers. They contain fenugreek extract powder, which has natural active compounds to help balance natural hormone production and provide an organic boost to milk production. Additionally, the fenugreek extract powder helps improve gut health and increase stamina.

Pros

  • Free of harmful additives
  • Easy-to-swallow capsules
  • 谷蛋白、大豆, and dairy-free
  • Balances digestion

Cons

  • May not smell very pleasant

How To Choose The Right Lactation Supplements?

Here are some factors that can help you make an informed choice.

  1. Ingredients:Look for the ingredients list in the health supplements. If you have a sensitive stomach, avoid fenugreek and take fenugreek-free supplements. Fennels can also enhance milk production. However, avoid ingredients that trigger allergies in you or are not suitable for your other medical conditions (if any).
  2. Number of supplements:Some lactating moms prefer to take multiple supplements in a day. But, start with one supplement and move on to two or three supplements like cookies, teas, or capsules when you don’t see any boost even after taking one supplement.
  3. Doctor’s recommendation:Never take supplements without a correct ingredient list or approval from healthcare professionals. Consider doctor-recommended supplements as they are tested and safe to consume.

How Do Lactation Supplements Work?

Initially, many new moms struggle to produce enough breast milk for the baby’s diet. Lactation supplements help improve the milk supply in lactating mothers. Earlier, people used to rely on herbs to boost the milk supply. But, modern science has brought postnatal vitamins that aid in enhancing milk production. These supplements include calcium, iron, magnesium, and zinc, leading to an abundant milk supply. Every mother is different, and her body responds to different supplements differently. So, always consult a professional before consuming any lactation supplement.

When Should You Start Taking Lactation Supplements?

Many pregnant women commonly observe colostrum near the due date, while some may not notice any milk until three to five days after their baby is born. So, don’t panic if you are not producing enough milk soon after your infant is born. Talk to your doctor for your breast examination. Your doctor can only prescribe supplements when you have regularized breastfeeding and still face low milk production.

Pregnant women need not worry about milk production if they are already breastfeeding another child. But, they should focus on having a healthy diet. You can pair your lactation supplement with a diet and take it thrice daily. However, consider experts’ advice to schedule your intake of lactation supplements.

Side Effects Of Lactation Supplements

Lactation supplements are to be taken only under prescription. Most healthcare professionals say that most lactation supplements are harmless. These supplements can help new moms experience a boost in milk production. However, healthcare professionals advise avoiding herbal supplements as there is limited evidence that supports safe usage(1). Although fenugreek helps boost milk production, it can cause diarrhea in babies when transferred through milk(2). It also lowers blood sugar levels and can cause odor in urine in moms.

Why Trust MomJunction?

Lactation supplements can help you enhance your lactation if you’re having trouble nursing your infant or think the milk you make isn’t enough. With so many supplements in the market, it’s easy to get perplexed while deciding which one to buy after your doctor’s recommendation. Therefore, we have compiled a list of some highly-recommended lactation supplements based on a comprehensive study, analysis of user evaluations, and FDA certifications. All the products listed here are described in detail, including components, flavor, and drawbacks to help you choose the right product.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I take lactation supplements during pregnancy?

You may not need to take lactation supplements during pregnancy unless you are a nursing mom and are pregnant with the next one. In such cases, maintain a nutritious diet. Ensure you take lactation supplements only on the advice of a healthcare professional.

2. Should I take lactation supplements to prevent milk supply issues?

Most new mothers produce sufficient milk for a baby. However, if you cannot produce enough milk due to stress, improper sleep, and other factors, you could consider a lactation supplement after consulting your doctor (3).

3. At what time of the day should I take the lactation supplement?

Take the lactation supplement dosage as recommended by a medical practitioner and follow the instructions and dosages given by the manufacturer.

Most of the products given in the list are herbal and allergen-free. You can choose one as per the recommendations of your lactation expert or doctor. It is essential to notice the changes in your body after starting the supplements, and if the outcome is not as desired or adverse. If you or your baby experiences any side effects, then you can discontinue the supplement.

Infographic: How To Improve Breast Milk Production?

Enhancing milk production requires proper breastfeeding techniques and self-care practices to support optimal lactation. With consistent effort and a well-balanced approach, mothers can nurture their milk supply for their little ones. Refer to the infographic below to learn about the simple daily rituals and habits you must incorporate for optimum milk production.

Ways To Enhance Breast Milk Production.jpg (infographic)

Illustration: Momjunction Design Team

Get high-quality PDF version by clicking below.

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References:

MomJunction后写的文章nalyzing the research works of expert authors and institutions. Our references consist of resources established by authorities in their respective fields. You can learn more about the authenticity of the information we present in oureditorial policy.
  1. Marwa R Amer et al. (2016); (Safety of Popular Herbal Supplements in Lactating Women)
    https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/25881578/
  2. Herbal medicines & breastfeeding
    https://www.thewomens.org.au/health-information/breastfeeding/medicines-drugs-and-breastfeeding/complementary-medicines-and-breastfeeding
  3. How can I use fenugreek to increase my breast milk supply?
    https://utswmed.org/medblog/fenugreek-breast-milk-supply/
  4. Herbs and Foods to Increase Your Breast Milk Supply.
    https://www.uwmedicine.org/sites/stevie/files/2018-11/Herbs-Foods-Increase-Your-Breast-Milk-Supply.pdf

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