You might have caught wind of a buzz online about Ben and Jerry’s ice cream flavor (Oats of This Swirled) supposedly having the magical ability to enhance a breastfeeding mom’s milk production. As much as I enjoy a tub of Ben and Jerry’s and would love for this to be true, I must don my lactation consultant cap (or maybe a lactation-friendly tank top?) and tell you that the science just doesn’t back this claim.
The notion that this ice cream can ramp up milk supply stems from its oat content, which some believe helps. However, oats happen to be the 13th ingredient listed, meaning you’d need to consume a massive quantity to even get a decent dose. There’s still debate over whether oats actually do anything for milk supply at all. As noted by the reputable site KellyMom.com, lactation consultants have recommended oats for ages, possibly because they are rich in iron—an important nutrient for breastfeeding moms. Yet, most moms aren’t anemic, so this connection is tenuous at best. Another theory is that the warm, soothing nature of oats may help women relax, potentially aiding in the release of milk.
However, as KellyMom.com and many lactation consultants will tell you, there is zero solid scientific evidence that oats positively influence milk supply. Most reported increases are likely due to the placebo effect. Here’s how that works: the “milk ejection reflex,” or milk “letdown,” is influenced by relaxation. If a mom believes she’s consuming something that can boost her supply, the relaxation that thought brings could help her milk flow.
Why This Ice Cream Bubble Needs to Be Burst
So why am I bothering to burst this ice cream bubble? Well, the reality is that most breastfeeding mothers don’t struggle with milk supply. The idea that a mom needs special foods to produce milk perpetuates the myth that our bodies aren’t capable of nourishing our babies as they are. The most effective way to ensure an adequate milk supply is to breastfeed frequently, on demand—even during those wee hours of the night (sorry!).
Often, we seek out quick fixes like lactation cookies, teas, or tinctures when, in reality, what most moms need is to return to the basics: breastfeeding more often. Milk production operates on a “supply and demand” principle; while indulging in tasty treats during this time is totally fine, they won’t instantly elevate your milk supply. And no, chugging gallons of water or milk won’t help either.
Certainly, some mothers do experience genuine milk supply issues, but grabbing a pack of cookies or a bottle of Gatorade won’t solve that. Serious supply problems could stem from hormonal imbalances, insufficient milk-producing tissue, or latching difficulties with the baby.
Consult Professionals for Milk Supply Concerns
If you’re facing a medical concern, you wouldn’t simply believe everything you read online and head to the grocery store for sugary solutions, right? It’s far more appealing to grab a pint of ice cream than to consult with a doctor, lactation consultant, or breastfeeding counselor. But if you’re worried about your milk production, please seek professional advice. Most likely, you’re doing just fine and just need to breastfeed more and enjoy those snuggles.
To ensure sufficient milk for your little one, breastfeed regularly and trust your body and baby to do their jobs. Once you’ve established that, feel free to indulge in as much ice cream as you desire; breastfeeding can make you ravenously hungry! Just don’t count on it to boost your milk supply because, unfortunately, it won’t.
(Ahem, if you end up with extra ice cream, feel free to send it my way, thanks!).
Further Reading
To learn more about pregnancy and home insemination, check out this excellent resource from Healthline. If you’re interested in DIY options, you might also want to explore what Make a Mom has to offer on their at-home insemination kits. For more information about our blog’s terms, visit here.
Summary
Despite the buzz about Ben and Jerry’s lactation ice cream supposedly enhancing milk supply through its oat content, there’s no scientific evidence to support this claim. Most breastfeeding mothers don’t need special foods to produce milk; frequent breastfeeding on demand is key. While some mothers may face genuine supply issues, quick fixes won’t address underlying problems. Consulting professionals is the best course of action for concerns about milk supply.