It's officially December, which means we're in full-fledged pine, gingerbread, and pumpkin spice mode. Especially if you live in a colder climate, these warm and cozy scents and tastes might be the only thing keeping you warm at the moment. Especially if you've just had your baby, you might be dealing with post-partum symptoms such as depression, mood swings, sore and achy body, and sleepless nights. Luckily for you new Moms, I have the perfect recipe to not only give you warm holiday vibes, but is packed with healthy herbs to get your hormones and mood back in balance.
Meet, the Pumpkin Spice Lactation Latte:
This latte is packed with amazing superfoods to help Moms battle any post-partum symptoms. It includes a lactation boosting protein powder (I like this vanilla chai one from Majka) which includes superfoods such as turmeric, caraway, milk thistle, MCT, flaxseed, and shatavari.
Here's a quick rundown of these superfoods and what they do for you:
Turmeric:
One of the world's most common yet important superfoods -- turmeric has countless incredible properties. This spice has anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, antibacterial, antifungal, anti-aging, antidepressant, and even anticarcinogenic (yes really) qualities. Turmeric is an absolute game-changer, and if you take nothing away from this article -- at least add turmeric to your diet!
Caraway:
Caraway has been used for centuries as a galactagogue. Caraway has been shown to reduce colic in breastfed infants, and is also thought to improve digestion., which is crucial for the mother to produce breastmilk.
Milk Thistle:
Milk thistle is commonly known to support the detoxification process and digestion in the liver. It also helps the liver with hormone metabolization, which helps to resolve any hormonal imbalances.
MCT:
Consuming coconut oil, which is rich in MCT oil, increases the amount of MCT in breast milk.
Flaxseed:
Flaxseeds contain important phytoestrogens that help to increase breast milk production. They also contain fibers to help support healthy digestion and a balanced gut microbiome.
Shatavari:
Shatavari has been used for centuries in Ayurvedic medicine to help support women's health. It specifically helps women with their reproductive system, in creating balances hormone levels. It's also a well known galactagogue, which helps mothers increase their breast milk production.
The Recipe:
Blend…
2 tbsp of pumpkin pure
1 tsp of pumpkin pie spice
1 tbsp vanilla extract
1 scoop vanilla chai lactation booster
2 cups coconut milk
Once blended, heat up over the stove. Serve and enjoy!
