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FENUGREEK
charlie'smom:
I have read that fenugreek increases your milk supply so I purchased
some. Is it really safe to take and if so, how much should I take?
Also, I am on Zoloft and Micronor, do I need to be worried about
any interactions?
Anne:
Fenugreek is a herb that has been used for hundreds of years by
nursing mothers to increase their milk supply. The most common
reasons for low milk supply are not nursing often enough, illness,
fatigue, stress and returning to work, so these factors should
be addressed before turning to herbal supplements to increase
supply.
Although there
are no scientific studies to prove that Fenugreek works, it is
believed to contain hormone precursors that increase milk supply.
Some researchers think that it increases supply because the breast
is a modified sweat gland, and it is known that fenugreek increases
sweat production.
Fenugreek
is listed in the US as a herbal remedy that is "generally regarded
as safe." However, as with all medications and herbs, it can cause
side effects in some women. The most common side effect is a maple
syrup odor in urine and sweat (this is not a bad thing, it just
means that the proper dosage has been reached). It also can cause
diarrhea, aggravate asthma, or hypoglycemia. Mothers who suffer
from asthma or diabetes, or who are allergic to peanuts, should
probably not take fenugreek. Pregnant women should not take fenugreek
because it can cause uterine contractions.
Fenugreek
is usually taken in capsule form since the pills are more potent
than the tea, and the tea has a bitter taste. The usual dosage
is 2-4 capsules 3 times a day. The capsules are usually 580-610
mg each, and can be found at most health food stores. If it is
going to be effective, an increase in milk supply will usually
be seen within 24-72 hours after the mother starts taking it.
It seems to work well for many women, but I have rarely seen dramatic
increases with it. Mothers seldom go from producing drops to producing
ounces after taking fenugreek, and anyone who is concerned about
their milk supply should make sure to address possible causes
such as baby not nursing effectively, maternal medications, not
feeding frequently enough, using an ineffective breast pump, etc.
See the article "Increasing Your Milk Supply" for causes and solutions
for low supply.
As far as
interactions with other medications, I am not aware of any that
are listed in the literature. Unless you have some of the risk
factors mentioned above, then I would not worry about taking Fenugreek
along with Zoloft and Micronor.
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