10 Reasons Oats Are Good For Nursing Mothers and Easy Ways To Eat Them

Choosing the right foods to support postpartum recovery and milk production, stay energised, and manage daily tasks is essential for new mums.

Oats are amongst one of the most healthy and nutrient-dense foods a Mum can eat. Here's why:

1. Plant oestrogens called phytoestrogens are found in oats which are believed to help stimulate breast milk production.
2. Oats contain protein as well as various vitamins and minerals.
3. Oats are good for the gut and microbiome with high amounts of soluble fibre, ideal for relieving constipation often concerned post-delivery.
4. Saponins—a substance believed to promote breastfeeding hormones—are found in oats.
5. Oats have beta-glucan, a specific type of fiber believed to help stimulate breast milk production.
6. Oats have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.
7. Oats are naturally gluten-free (though those with celiac disease should check for cross-contamination in processing).
8. Oats are energising, providing slow-release carbohydrates for sustained energy.
9. Oats provide mood-boosting nutrition and comfort, offering essential self-care for tired and stressed mums.
10. Oats are easy to include in your diet in many delicious ways!

Our Guide to Including Oats in Your Diet:

• Baked oats such as Oatopia's flapjacks are the perfect easy-to-eat, grab-and-go snack.
• Add rolled oats to smoothies along with Brewer's Yeast (for iron & vitamin B) and hemp seeds (for protein and omega-3).
• Replace 1/4 of flour in pancake mix with oat flour or rolled oats.
• Cook rolled oats in milk or water to make a classic, comforting porridge.
• Use steel-cut oats in savoury dishes like soups, risottos, and curries as a replacement for rice.
• Add oats into baking recipes such as cookies, brownies, muffins, and banana bread.