Dieticians back traditional Indian foods for lactating mothers, but with a scientific twist
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Speaking during World Breastfeeding Week (August 1–7), the Indian Dietetic Association (IDA), Nagpur Chapter and NetProFan, Nagpur Chapter, jointly emphasised that traditional foods, long trusted by Indian households, can still be effective in boosting milk production if consumed in a modern, balanced form.
"Traditional Indian postnatal diets were rich in ghee and sugar, aimed at restoring strength and enhancing lactation.
But given current issues like postpartum weight gain, gestational diabetes, and anaemia, we need to update these recipes for today's mothers," said Dr Renuka Mainde, convener of NetProFan, Nagpur Chapter.
"Instead of consuming heavy ghee-laden laddoos, we now recommend powdered versions of the same ingredients — like gond, nuts, and seeds — with milk or porridge. This maintains nutritional value without adding health risks," she said.
Dr Kavita Bakshi, convener of IDA, Nagpur Chapter, added, "Some mothers struggle to produce enough milk due to poor nutrition. Foods like oats, almonds, flaxseeds, fennel, papaya, and leafy greens — rich in B-vitamins, iron, and healthy fats — are natural galactagogues. But all of this should be part of a balanced diet, and not a replacement for proper medical advice."
Dr Kavita Gupta, secretary of IDA, Nagpur Chapter, explained how breastfeeding benefits extend to both mother and child.
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"It improves glucose tolerance, reduces risk of diabetes and breast cancer, and lowers high blood pressure in women with hyperglycemia in pregnancy. The longer the duration, the better the benefit," Gupta said.
She also cautioned lactating women with diabetes to consult doctors before taking any medicines. "Insulin remains the safest, but Metformin and Glipizide are also considered safe in breastfeeding as they do not significantly pass into breast milk," Gupta said.
Chanchal Sahani, joint secretary, IDA, Nagpur, pointed out the added value of breast milk in building a baby's immunity, brain development, and emotional bonding while being eco-friendly and cost-effective.
"Breastfeeding is a skill. Proper latch and positioning not only help the baby feed better but also prevent problems like nipple pain, engorgement, and low supply," said Shalini Kotamkar, Life Member of IDA.
BOX
DIETICIANS SUGGEST
* Gond laddoos should be consumed in powdered form with milk or porridge instead of heavy ghee-rich pieces
* Use unsaturated fats from nuts and seeds instead of excess ghee
* Include iron-rich leafy vegetables, pulses, and whole grains to combat anaemia
* Avoid fried snacks with trans fats that delay postnatal recovery
* Balance sugar intake in traditional sweets to prevent postpartum weight gain and blood sugar spikes
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