Low Milk Supply? Real Breastfeeding Tips That Actually Work (From One Mama to Another)

Breastfeeding is one of the most natural things in the world… and yet, nothing about it feels easy when you’re staring down at a baby who just won’t seem satisfied and wondering, “Am I making enough milk?”

I’ve been there. Leaking, latching, cluster feeding, crying (both of us). And if you’re dealing with low milk supply, you’re probably searching for anything that actually helps — not just internet fluff or judgmental advice. So from one mama to another, here’s a roundup of real-world tips, natural remedies, and over-the-counter solutions that have helped me and many others boost milk flow — safely.

🌿 Natural Remedies That Can Really Help

Fenugreek

This one has been around forever. It’s an herbal supplement (usually in capsule form) that many moms swear by for increasing milk fast. Some notice changes within a few days. Bonus (or warning?): you might start smelling like maple syrup. It’s strong, but effective for many.

Blessed Thistle

Often paired with fenugreek for better results. This herb supports hormone balance and lactation and can be found in teas or capsules.

Moringa (Malunggay)

I love this one. Moringa is a superfood packed with nutrients, and it helped my energy as much as my milk supply. You can get it in powder or capsule form and mix it right into smoothies.

Oatmeal

The classic go-to. Whether it’s a big cozy bowl in the morning or lactation cookies packed with oats — something about it works. It’s high in iron, which helps your body recover and produce milk.

Fennel & Anise Seeds

These can naturally help milk flow and soothe digestion for baby, too. Try steeping fennel into a warm tea, or use it in your cooking.

Brewer’s Yeast

Add it to baked goods, smoothies, or oatmeal. It’s rich in B-vitamins and iron, two things a tired postpartum body definitely needs.

Goat’s Rue

This one’s less talked about, but it’s especially useful for moms with PCOS or low breast tissue. It supports glandular development and may help long-term supply.

💊 Store-Bought Options That Aren’t Just Hype

Mother’s Milk Tea (Traditional Medicinals)

You’ve probably seen this one in stores. It’s a herbal blend that includes fenugreek, fennel, and anise. Drinking 2–3 cups a day can help increase supply and support letdown.

Legendairy Milk Supplements

These were a game-changer for me. Different blends like Pump Princess, Liquid Gold, and Milkapalooza target different root causes of low supply — from hormonal imbalance to stress to slow letdowns.

Sunflower Lecithin

This doesn’t increase supply, but it does help keep your milk flowing smoothly — especially if you deal with clogs or mastitis. It keeps things thin and moving.

*Blue Gatorade, Body Armor & Coconut Water

Might sound silly, but staying hydrated really helps. Some moms (me included) swear by drinking a big Gatorade before pumping. The electrolytes can help with letdown.

💡 Real Tips from My Experience

• Feed or pump often. Even if it feels like baby’s just snacking, that stimulation helps increase supply.

• Don’t skip night feeds. Your prolactin levels — the milk-making hormone — peak at night. Even one overnight feed or pump can make a difference.

• Use the 10/10 Pump Trick. Try this when power pumping or during a low-output session:

  
  

  👉 Pump for 10 minutes

  
  

  👉 Rest for 10 minutes

  
  

  👉 Pump for another 10 minutes

  
  

  👉 Rest again

  
  

  👉 Then finish with a final 10-minute pump

  
  

  It mimics a baby’s cluster feeding and can signal your body to produce more milk.

• Power pumping. Once a day, use the above method or do a full hour of alternating pumping/resting to mimic baby’s demand and boost production.

• Warm compress + massage. Before and during pumping, use a warm washcloth and gently massage your breasts toward the nipple. This helps with letdown and flow.

• Nourish your body. Your body needs calories, healthy fats, and lots of water to produce milk. Prioritize one solid, nourishing meal a day and stay hydrated.

• Take care of you. Stress is a known milk killer. Try to breathe, nap when you can, and give yourself grace. You’re doing your best — and that’s more than enough.

  
  

Low milk supply can feel so defeating — but I promise, you’re not alone. And it doesn’t have to stay that way. Whether you choose herbal supplements, store-bought boosters, or just need some emotional support, there are options that work. Keep going, mama.

You’ve got this. 💛

Written byThe Triangle tot- blog by Little Kidz preschool of Durham, NC

Visit our website at [www.littlekidzpreschool2.com] for more helpful tips, resources, and community support.

Want to stay connected?

Follow us on Facebook and Instagram for encouragement, parenting advice, and all things family life.

Have questions or want to share your own breastfeeding journey? Drop a comment below or reach out — we’d love to hear from you!

Remember: You’re doing an incredible job mama!