What foods are most likely to reduce breast milk supply?

Apr 22, 2023 Source: Cainiu Health

Dr. Lv Aiming

Introduction

There is no clinically recognized food that immediately stops lactation. When a postpartum woman wishes to wean, she may consume foods such as leeks and malt, which can help inhibit the release of prolactin and assist in reducing milk production. Additionally, under medical supervision, medications such as bromocriptine mesylate tablets or vitamin B6 tablets may be taken to suppress prolactin synthesis, thereby decreasing milk secretion and ultimately achieving the goal of weaning.

There is no clinical evidence supporting the idea that abstaining from certain foods can effectively suppress lactation. However, postpartum women who wish to wean may achieve this through specific foods and medications. The details are as follows:

I. Foods

1. Chinese chives
As a spicy and stimulating food, Chinese chives have mild stimulant properties. Regular consumption may reduce milk secretion and thus assist in weaning.

2. Barley malt
Rich in vitamin E, barley malt can inhibit the release of prolactin after entering the body, thereby helping to suppress lactation.

In addition, consuming bitter gourd in moderation may also assist in reducing milk supply.

II. Medications

1. Bromocriptine mesylate tablets
This is a specific inhibitor that reduces prolactin secretion. By suppressing prolactin release and lowering prolactin levels in the body, it indirectly helps stop lactation.

2. Vitamin B6 tablets
Vitamin B6 promotes the formation of dopamine in the body, which inhibits the synthesis of prolactin, leading to reduced milk production and ultimately achieving weaning.

In addition, progesterone soft capsules may also be used. Women who wish to wean are advised to consult a doctor at a hospital and follow professional guidance to choose an appropriate method, avoiding blind self-treatment that could negatively affect health.

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What is the principle behind lactation consultants' massage for suppressing milk production?

The principle behind a lactation consultant's massage for weaning is to stimulate the mammary glands and promote milk expression, thereby achieving the goal of reducing milk supply. Such massages should be performed by a professional lactation consultant. A breast examination should be conducted prior to the massage to ensure there are no abnormalities. If any abnormalities are detected, medical attention should be sought promptly for diagnosis and treatment by a healthcare provider.

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Can weaning cause fever?

Fever usually refers to an elevated body temperature. Weaning may or may not cause fever. During weaning, milk ducts are prone to blockage, leading to milk accumulation in the breasts. If the condition is mild and appropriate weaning medications are used as directed by a doctor, fever typically does not occur. However, if significant milk accumulation leads to bacterial infection in the breast area, fever commonly develops due to inflammatory stimulation.

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Will breastfeeding eventually stop if you keep pumping milk?

Pumping will not suddenly cause milk supply to dry up. When pumping, the milk stored in the mammary ducts is typically expressed. After pumping, the mammary cells, influenced by hormones such as prolactin, progesterone, and estrogen, continue to produce new milk. Therefore, pumping itself does not lead to a reduction in milk supply. If milk volume is low, it may be due to emotional factors—such as prolonged maternal anxiety or depression.

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Should B6 be taken before or after meals for reducing milk supply?

Vitamin B6 for weaning can be taken either before or after meals, as it does not affect the drug's efficacy. If you have a habit of taking medication before meals and do not have any stomach conditions, and have not previously experienced adverse reactions such as stomach pain or nausea, then it is acceptable to take it before meals. However, if you frequently experience gastrointestinal discomfort, it is advisable to take it after meals to prevent potential adverse effects.