Beer and Milk production

[Aleida]

I have heard a few women say that they drank about 1/2 to 1 beer each afternoon or evening to up their milk production. Does this work? If so, why? (what's the science behind this?)

Thanks

[tifttu]

That's an old wives tale. I think what really happens is that the women relax a bit from the alcohol which makes let down easier. AFAIK, there is no actual increase in milk production.

[crystal555rose]

http://www.kellymom.com/herbal/milksupply/herbal-rem_f.html#hops

It seems that hops was thought to be a supplement for supply but since alcohol is dehydrating, beer is not really indicated for increasing supply.

[KerryS]

Actually, alcohol inhibits letdown, and studies have found that in the period of time immediately after consuming alcohol, women's babies take in LESS milk than they would otherwise.

The hops and brewer's yeast in beer may be helpful for milk production, but if you're trying to boost production, it's best to avoid alcohol.

[LeighAnneMOM2-3boys]

It worked for me. My peditrcian and midwife had me drink 1 Guiniess a night and it helped my supply tremendously. I did this for 6 months and then my little one started to wean so I gave it up but it did help. Also oatmeal helped and those lacation cookies too. He still nurses 3 times a day and I no longer have to drink it.

[Jmom1010]

I never tried beer but my LC told me to try malt like Ovalteen chocolate milk mix. That worked.

[StillSingingMom]

The story I have heard anecdotally is that small amounts of dark beers may be helpful.

Drinking enough to get tipsy is most unwise. But I hear from lots of moms that they find a Guinness, or a half a Guinness, to be helpful.