Increasing Milk Supply: Beer Drinking Tips For Nursing Mothers

There is a long history of women drinking beer to increase their milk supply, with records showing that beer has been prescribed for this purpose as far back as 2000 BC. However, there is conflicting evidence regarding the effectiveness of beer in increasing milk supply. While some sources claim that the barley in beer can boost prolactin production, others suggest that the alcohol in beer decreases milk production and inhibits the milk ejection reflex. So, how much beer should you drink to increase your milk supply? The answer may vary depending on individual factors, but it is generally recommended to limit alcohol consumption while breastfeeding and to avoid drinking alcohol if possible. If you choose to drink beer, it is important to drink in moderation and wait at least two hours after drinking before breastfeeding or pumping. Non-alcoholic beer may be a better option as it provides the potential milk supply-enhancing benefits of barley without the negative effects of alcohol.

The pros of drinking beer while breastfeeding

While drinking beer is not recommended for breastfeeding mothers, there are a few potential benefits to drinking beer in moderation while breastfeeding.

Firstly, the barley in beer can boost prolactin production, which aids in milk production. However, it is important to note that the alcohol in beer can decrease milk production and inhibit the milk ejection reflex, leading to reduced milk intake by the baby.

Secondly, drinking beer in moderation can help a breastfeeding mother relax and increase her levels of oxytocin, the "feel-good" hormone necessary for the letdown step of lactation.

Thirdly, beer contains hops, which are likely to have a relaxing effect and may contribute to increased milk supply.

Finally, drinking beer can be a way for a breastfeeding mother to unwind and treat herself. As long as it is consumed in moderation and the mother waits at least two hours after drinking before breastfeeding or pumping, the negative effects on milk supply and the baby's milk intake are likely to be minimal.

In conclusion, while there are some potential pros to drinking beer while breastfeeding, it is important to emphasise that moderation is key. Breastfeeding mothers should always consult with a healthcare professional before consuming any alcohol and ensure that they are making informed decisions about their health and the health of their baby.

The cons of drinking beer while breastfeeding

While drinking beer in moderation while breastfeeding may not be harmful to the baby, there are still some negative consequences to be aware of. Here are some of the cons of drinking beer while breastfeeding:

Impact on milk supply and ejection:

Beer contains alcohol, which can interfere with the release of oxytocin, a hormone necessary for the milk ejection reflex or "let-down". This can result in a decrease in milk supply and may lead to a hungry or frustrated baby.

Sleep disturbances in infants:

Alcohol in breast milk can disrupt an infant's sleep patterns, causing them to be sleepier but have shorter sleep durations. This is due to the impairment of REM sleep and increased startling or arousal.

Potential long-term effects:

Research suggests that exposure to alcohol in breast milk may have potential long-term effects on the child's development. A 2018 study found that 6 and 7-year-old children who had consumed breast milk with alcohol performed worse on reasoning tests compared to their peers who had not been exposed to alcohol in breast milk.

Negative impact on the baby's growth and development:

Excessive alcohol consumption by the breastfeeding mother can negatively affect the baby's growth and development. It can cause abnormal weight gain, impaired immune function, and delay motor development.

Risk of sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS):

Co-sleeping with a baby after consuming alcohol is strongly associated with an increased risk of SIDS. It is recommended to avoid bed-sharing if alcohol has been consumed.

Altered taste of breast milk:

The presence of alcohol in breast milk can alter its taste, and the baby may be less enthusiastic about drinking it.

While drinking beer in moderation may not cause immediate harm to the baby, it is important to consider the potential negative consequences. The safest option, according to the CDC, is to avoid consuming alcohol while breastfeeding. However, if a breastfeeding mother chooses to drink beer, it is recommended to drink in moderation, ensure proper timing between drinking and breastfeeding, and prioritize the baby's safety and well-being.

The history of beer as a galactagogue

During the Greek and Roman eras, barley was often included in alcoholic recipes alongside lactogenic herbs and fruits, likely noticed by breastfeeding women for their milk-boosting properties. The Greek doctor Dioscorides, in the 1st century CE, described an alcoholic beverage to increase milk supply made with dried black figs, freshly pressed grapes, fennel, and thyme, all lactogenic ingredients. The Greek surgeon Antyllus, in the 2nd century CE, mentioned a fermented grain beverage combined with crushed unripe sesame seeds and palm dates, also known for their lactogenic properties.

In the Dark Ages, when much of the ancient world's knowledge was lost or suppressed, brewing was kept alive in European monasteries. Eventually, brewing techniques spread to small farmsteads, and women, known as "Brewsters," took on the task of brewing in their homes. These Brewsters used a variety of grains and herbs, including lactogenic herbs such as pepper, cinnamon, coriander, caraway, and anise, which likely contributed to the belief in beer's galactagogue properties.

Hildegard of Bingen, an influential 12th-century nun, herbalist, and philosopher, advocated for the use of hops as the standard herb in beer. Hops, a bitter and relaxing herb, likely helped reduce violence and rape in the general population. The inclusion of hops in beer may have further reinforced the belief in its galactagogue effects.

In the early 1500s, German law restricted the ingredients in beer to barley, hops, yeast, and water, which had the unintended consequence of enhancing the lactogenic properties of the beverage. Classical European beer, with its "pure" ingredients, became recognized by breastfeeding mothers as an effective galactagogue.

During the 19th century, with the rise of temperance movements, the beer industry responded by producing non-alcoholic beer-like beverages, such as Near-Beer in the US, Malz-Bier in Germany, and bière de nourrice in France. These beverages were recommended for pregnant and breastfeeding women and were believed to support milk supply.

While modern research has shown that alcohol can impair milk ejection and decrease milk supply, the historical use of beer as a galactagogue, especially in the form of low-alcohol "small beers" or non-alcoholic varieties, suggests a complex relationship between the ingredients and their effects on lactation. The barley and hops used in brewing have galactagogue properties, while the alcohol content may counteract these benefits.

The best types of beer for breastfeeding

While the CDC recommends that the safest option while breastfeeding is to avoid consuming alcohol entirely, it is possible to consume a small amount of alcohol while breastfeeding as long as you take certain precautions. If you are breastfeeding, it is recommended that you wait at least two hours after drinking before nursing or pumping.

If you are looking to increase your milk supply, it is important to note that while barley, a key ingredient in beer, can boost prolactin production, the alcohol in beer decreases milk production and inhibits the milk ejection reflex. Therefore, non-alcoholic beers are the best option for breastfeeding mothers looking to increase their milk supply.

Erdinger Weissbier German Wheat Beer Non-Alcoholic Beer

This German wheat beer is brewed in Bavaria, Germany, by Erdinger. It is full-flavoured and free of chemical additives, as it is brewed under the strictest Bavarian Purity Law 1516, using only malt, water, hops, and yeast. It has less than 0.5% alcohol content.

Beck's Non-Alcoholic Beer

This classic German beer has a distinctive full-bodied taste, a slightly fruity but firm crispness, and a fresh 'hoppy' bouquet. It is golden in colour and has a rich, full head. It has 0.5% alcohol content and it is recommended that you wait at least two hours after drinking before breastfeeding or pumping.

Guinness

Unlike other beers that have an average of 5% ABV, Guinness has a low alcohol content. Guinness Stout has 4.3% ABV, while Guinness Draught has only 4.2% ABV. It is recommended that you wait at least two hours after drinking before breastfeeding or pumping.

Karamalz Classic (Non-Alcoholic Malt Beverage)

Imported from Germany, Karamalz Classic is a non-alcoholic malt beverage that provides healthy carbohydrates, vitamins, minerals, and trace elements. It is made with pure water, hops, malt, and caramelized sugar, and is similar to apple or grape juice. It is low in calories and rich in B vitamins and vitamin C, which is necessary for a strong immune system.

Big Drop Chocolate Milk Stout

Big Drop Chocolate Milk Stout has less than 0.5% ABV, meaning it is one of the low-alcohol beers that keep the taste of beer intact. It has a coffee-toasted taste and a malt nose, with a warmth uncommon to ordinary beers. The chocolate taste is not overwhelming, but rather balanced with a layer of toasty flavour.

Copper Kettle Milk

Made with actual lactose, Copper Kettle Milk has a chocolate milk character and a velvety mouthfeel. It is sweet and malty, with a 5.6% ABV.

Finkel & Garf Oatmeal Milk

Crafted in Colorado, Finkel & Garf Oatmeal Milk is an oatmeal milk stout that is less sweet than a typical milk stout but not quite as heavy as a traditional oatmeal stout. It has a 5.5% ABV and displays satisfying malty, coffee, and chocolatey notes.

Left Hand Milk

With roasted barley, flaked oats, and flaked barley, Left Hand Milk has a rich and chocolaty flavour, thanks in part to the addition of actual chocolate. It has a surprising 6% ABV and sweet, toasty notes with a seductive mocha character.

How much beer is safe to drink while breastfeeding?

While breastfeeding, it is recommended to cut out drinking alcohol completely. However, if you do choose to drink, it is advised to limit your alcohol consumption and avoid nursing or pumping milk for your baby for a couple of hours afterward. The amount of alcohol in breast milk will diminish over time as the level in your bloodstream falls.

According to the American Academy of Pediatrics, it is recommended to avoid alcohol if you are breastfeeding, as alcohol does reach your baby via breast milk. While the amount transferred is relatively small, your baby has an immature liver and is unable to process and eliminate the alcohol as quickly as you can. Research shows that drinking alcohol regularly may decrease breast milk production and affect how much milk your baby drinks. Alcohol has also been shown to disrupt babies' sleep patterns, even after a small to moderate amount of alcohol.

If you are drinking, it is recommended to time it right after you breastfeed. You can also pump and store your breast milk before drinking, and then feed your baby with the expressed milk if they are hungry in the hours following your drink. Another option is to feed your baby formula in the hours following your alcohol consumption.

If you do choose to drink, it is important to wait for the alcohol level in your breast milk to drop before nursing or pumping. This usually takes about two to three hours but can vary from person to person depending on weight, the amount you drink, how fast you drink, whether you eat while drinking, and how quickly your body breaks down alcohol.

It is important to note that drinking alcohol can inhibit the let-down reflex and cause a temporary but significant decrease in milk supply. Additionally, there may be potential long-term effects on your baby's development from greater exposure to alcohol in breast milk.

In conclusion, while it may be safe to consume a small amount of beer while breastfeeding, it is important to take the necessary precautions to ensure the safety and well-being of your baby.

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