Breastfeeding is a challenge in itself after giving birth. Some mothers are able to breastfeed their babies. Others have to struggle to breastfeed because their milk has not come in yet. One way to increase milk production is to eat papaya. Let's discuss the benefits of papaya for breastfeeding mothers.
It’s no secret that papaya has countless health benefits, including for breastfeeding mothers. The nutrients found in papaya can help increase milk production.
Nutritional Content of Papaya
According to the Ministry of Agriculture of the Republic of Indonesia, papaya has several unique nutritional contents. The nutritional content in 100 grams of papaya flesh includes:
- Vitamin C 60-120 milligrams
- Vitamin A 18.7-74.0 micrograms
- Beta-carotene average 276 micrograms
- Calcium 20 milligrams
- Potassium 182 milligrams
After looking at the nutritional content of papaya, let's take a look at the benefits of papaya for breastfeeding mothers.
Benefits of Papaya for Breastfeeding Mothers
1. Prevents Cancer
This orange fruit is rich in lutein, beta-carotene, and cryptoxanthin. In addition, papaya also contains many antioxidants that can help eliminate free radicals, protect against oxidative stress, and prevent colon cancer. After giving birth, changes in the immune system may occur, making moms susceptible to disease.
2. A good source of fiber for digestion
The soft flesh of papaya contains a large amount of dietary fiber. Eating papaya regularly can have a positive effect on moms' digestive systems. The fiber content can also increase prolactin levels in the body. Prolactin is a hormone from the pituitary gland in the brain that stimulates milk production.
3. As a milk booster
Several journal studies have proven that young papaya is highly recommended for breastfeeding mothers. It can produce the hormone oxytocin in the body, which will improve the quality and flow of breast milk. Even papaya leaves contain substances that can activate breastfeeding hormone (prolactin) receptors to increase milk production.
4. Suitable for dieting
Returning to their original weight and body shape is a dream for most mothers after giving birth. However, losing weight after giving birth is not easy. The breastfeeding process helps the uterus contract back to its original size. This can help with weight loss. To increase breast milk flow, consume low-calorie papaya and feel the benefits for breastfeeding mothers.
5. Maintains heart health
Every 100 grams of papaya contains 257 milligrams of potassium, an essential mineral that is good for moms' bodies. It regulates blood pressure, increases energy, maintains heart health, and maintains muscle function.
Can papaya be consumed every day?
Papaya is actually safe for breastfeeding mothers to consume every day. Papaya can be eaten directly or used as a topping for salads. So, breastfeeding mothers can consume papaya without getting bored, but don't eat too much.
Although papaya is beneficial for breastfeeding mothers, they still need to consume other healthy foods. Healthy foods to meet the nutritional needs of breastfeeding mothers and babies include vegetables, whole grains, eggs, fish, katuk leaves, dates, nuts, and sweet potatoes.
Papaya has good content to support breast milk production so that mothers can breastfeed and meet the nutritional needs of their little ones during their golden age. Hopefully, this article about the benefits of papaya for nursing mothers is helpful.
During breastfeeding, moms must pay attention to their little one's comfort. From clothing to the right diapers so that they can breastfeed optimally. MAKUKU SAP Diapers are anti-clumping diapers designed with a SAP (Super Absorbent Polymer) core structure and equipped with features that support the comfort and safety of your little one's skin. (VIO-Aq/MKK)
