Fennel: Promoting or Suppressing Lactation?

Jun 28, 2025 Source: Cainiu Health

Dr. Zhang Lu

Introduction

In general, fennel does not have the effect of reducing or increasing milk production. Although fennel does not affect breast milk secretion, breastfeeding women should still pay attention to a balanced diet. It is advisable to consume an appropriate amount of soup-based foods, such as pork rib soup, carp soup, or black chicken soup, to supplement protein and fluids, which may help support milk production. At the same time, maintaining a cheerful mood is also recommended.

Generally speaking, fennel does not have the effect of reducing or promoting lactation. Detailed analysis is as follows:

Fennel mainly contains fennel oil, vitamins, minerals, and other components. Although these substances can provide nutrition or aid digestion to some extent, they do not include hormone components or specific bioactive substances that directly affect milk secretion. According to traditional Chinese medicine theory, fennel's effects focus on warming the stomach, dispersing cold, regulating qi, and relieving pain. Its warm nature is primarily used to treat conditions such as cold deficiency of the spleen and stomach or cold-induced qi stagnation. There is no clear evidence or documentation indicating fennel as an ingredient that reduces or promotes lactation.

Although fennel does not affect milk production, lactating women should still pay attention to a balanced diet. It is advisable to consume moderate amounts of soups, such as pork rib soup, carp soup, or chicken soup, to supplement protein and fluids, which can help promote lactation. Additionally, it is recommended to maintain a cheerful mood, wear loose and comfortable undergarments, avoid pressure on the breasts, and maintain proper breast hygiene to prevent breast diseases.

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How to drink water during lactation to increase breast milk production

Under normal circumstances, drinking water scientifically during lactation can provide a fundamental basis for milk production. The key lies in ensuring adequate water intake, choosing the right timing for drinking, controlling water temperature, selecting appropriate beverages, and adopting proper hydration methods. Combining these approaches can better support milk secretion. In addition to drinking water properly, nursing mothers also need to ensure sufficient intake of high-quality protein and vitamins.

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Does amaranth reduce milk supply?

Under normal circumstances, amaranth does not cause a reduction in breast milk. When consuming amaranth during breastfeeding, it should be thoroughly washed to avoid pesticide residues. It is best cooked using mild methods, avoiding overly spicy or irritating seasonings. Some individuals may experience gastrointestinal discomfort when trying amaranth for the first time or consuming it in excess, so intake should be moderated. If symptoms such as diarrhea or allergic reactions occur after consumption, stop eating it immediately, monitor your condition, and consult a doctor if necessary.

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What soup should be consumed on the second day after natural childbirth to quickly increase milk supply?

On the second day after a vaginal delivery, drinking soups such as loofah network with crucian carp soup, tofu and egg soup, peanut, red date and millet soup, Chinese yam and pork rib soup, or tomato, enoki mushroom and lean meat soup can help promote lactation. These soups are nutritious, mild in flavor, and easy to absorb, helping to replenish fluids and nutrients to support milk production. If there is very little breast milk after childbirth or if breast engorgement and pain occur, it is recommended to seek medical advice promptly.

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Can massage reduce milk supply?

In general, massage cannot directly suppress lactation and may instead stimulate milk production. However, using proper lactation suppression massage techniques in combination with other weaning measures can help alleviate discomfort from breast engorgement. During the weaning process, natural weaning is recommended—gradually reducing the frequency and duration of breastfeeding, limiting intake of high-protein and broth-rich foods, and avoiding stimulation of the breasts.