Want to do something for a mother who just had a baby? Make her these amazing lactation cookies!
Are you expecting? Give this recipe a whirl and freeze the pre-made cookies!
All my friends are pregnant and having babies! Which means breastfeeding and supporting those ladies who make the golden milk! Seriously though- these are so good! Whenever I make a batch to bring to a new mama I make a little extra for our home. I don't eat a lot of oats but I like to enjoy oats in these! Oats are great for making breastmilk!
The coconut sugar makes them lower glycemic index and the cinnamon helps balance blood sugar while adding some non-sugar sweetness. As always, buy organic ingredients. This recipe is gluten free but you can swap the coconut oil for butter if you would like!
Why oatmeal and flax?
1. Nutrient Content:
Oatmeal: Oatmeal is a good source of complex carbohydrates, fiber, and various vitamins and minerals, including iron, calcium, and B vitamins. These nutrients are essential for a nursing mother's overall health and energy levels.
Flaxseeds: Flaxseeds are rich in essential fatty acids, particularly alpha-linolenic acid (ALA), which is a type of omega-3 fatty acid. Omega-3 fatty acids are important for brain development in infants and can contribute to overall maternal health.
2. Galactagogues:
Both oatmeal and flaxseeds are considered galactagogues, which are substances that are believed to promote and increase breast milk production. While scientific evidence on the effectiveness of galactagogues varies, some women find that these foods help support their lactation efforts.
3. Fiber Content:
Oatmeal and flaxseeds are excellent sources of dietary fiber. Fiber can help regulate digestion, prevent constipation, and support a mother's overall well-being, which is important during the postpartum period.
4. Phytoestrogens:
Flaxseeds contain phytoestrogens, which are plant compounds that have estrogen-like effects in the body. Some studies suggest that phytoestrogens may have a positive influence on lactation, although more research is needed in this area.
5. Healthy Fats:
Flaxseeds are a source of healthy fats, including omega-3 fatty acids. These fats are beneficial for both the mother's health and the development of the baby's brain and nervous system.
6. Hydration:
Oatmeal and flaxseeds can be prepared with liquids such as water, milk, or non-dairy alternatives. Staying well-hydrated is crucial for milk production, and consuming oatmeal and flaxseeds with liquids can help support hydration.
Here's the recipe!
Lactation cookies:
1 cup coconut sugar
2 eggs
1 cup coconut oil (melted)
2 cups oatmeal (GF)
1 cup all purpose gluten free flour
1 tsp cinnamon
1/2 tsp baking soda
1/4 tsp salt
1 cup chocolate chips
2 tbsp Brewer's Yeast*
2 tbsp freshly ground flax seed
optional- add in chopped nuts (walnuts, pecans)
Mix coconut sugar, eggs and coconut oil. Add dry ingredients.
Form into cookies with hands and place on parchment paper on baking sheet.
Cook for 10 - 12 minutes (depending on the size of the cookie- I like big ones!)
*Brewer's yeast- make sure to buy gluten free Brewer's yeast, not all brewer's yeast is gluten free! Sometimes I leave this out or ask the mama if they would like it!
I put pecans in these- SO good! You might have to call them lactation cookies so others don't steal them- haha.
Make these for yourself and your mothers. Yes, you can eat them even if you aren't lactating!
Comments