Coconut water is a refreshing beverage that possesses distinctive nutritional, medicinal, and therapeutic properties. In some cultures, coconut water when breastfeeding is used as a galactagogue to increase breast milk production and supply. Perhaps that is why its use to treat ailments like dehydration is common in folk medicine (1). However, this purported coconut benefit is still under research. Read on as we tell you more about the safety of coconut water for lactating women, its effect on breast milk supply, and possible health benefits this mild sweet liquid from tender green-colored drupe can offer breastfeeding mothers.
Is Coconut Water Safe During Breastfeeding?
There is no clinical recommendation on the safety of coconut water use during breastfeeding (2). Lactation experts generally consider coconut water safe for healthy mothers with no severe medical conditions (3). In contrast, breastfeeding mothers with health conditions, including high/low blood pressure, kidney problems, and recent surgery, are advised to avoid coconut water. If you have any health condition or are on some medication, then take your doctor’s advice before consuming coconut water.
How Much Coconut Water Can You Consume In A Day?
While there is no fixed amount of coconut water for lactating women, most breastfeeding women can safely consume one to two cups a day. However, a nutritionist can give an individualized recommendation based on your overall dietary intake.
Does Consuming Coconut Water Increase Breast Milk Supply?
Coconut water has been traditionally used as a galactagogue in various parts of the world. According to lactation experts, a well-balanced diet with various beverages, including coconut water, may increase the breast milk supply (3). However, there are no clinical studies to demonstrate the effectiveness of coconut water in regulating breast milk supply. Nevertheless, adding fresh coconut water to your breastfeeding diet can provide several vital nutrients, enzymes, and phenolic acids (4) that may support your postpartum recovery as well as hydrate you.
Nutritional Value Of Tender Coconut Water
A cup of tender coconut water (240 grams) provides carbohydrates, and essential nutrients, including potassium, sodium, and magnesium (5) (6). The following is the list of the significant nutrients found in tender coconut water, and the maternal recommended dietary allowance (RDA) of nutrients. *AI = Adequate Intake Sources: U.S. Department of Agriculture and Oregon State University Note: Mature coconut water is nutritionally different from the tender coconut water.
Possible Health Benefits Of Tender Coconut Water When Breastfeeding
Fresh coconut water is a low-calorie beverage that may support your overall health when breastfeeding. Note that most benefits of coconut water require further research, especially in the context of breastfeeding.
Precautions To Take While Consuming Coconut Water When Breastfeeding
You may follow these precautions to ensure a safe intake of coconut water during the lactation period.
