Breastfeeding? Have a cookie and a beer.

In the spirit of Oktoberfest, we’re exploring how beer helps breastfeeding mommas. So get in on the festive-beer-drinking-fun!

But first, a 3-sentence history lesson.

Did you know that this traditional German holiday actually begins in September? It all started with a royal wedding back in the early 19th century. Can you imagine a 5-day long wedding? The guests apparently loved it so much they pronounced it to be an annual event and shifted it forward into the last week of September because of the ideal weather.

Yes! Beer helps with milk production.

Did you know that this traditional German holiday actually begins in September? It all started with a royal wedding back in the early 19th century. Can you imagine a 5-day long wedding? The guests apparently loved it so much they pronounced it to be an annual event and shifted it forward into the last week of September because of the ideal weather.

Need a reason to eat a cookie? We got you.

Now about those cookies… did you know that cookies are a common treat during Oktoberfest, too? Giant heart-shaped gingerbread cookies are decorated with icing script and attached ribbon so they can be worn as a necklace! It’s kind of like a German valentine, as the script is usually something “sweet” (pun intended) from one sweetheart to another. So what’s the connection we’re making? Well, if you haven’t tried lactation cookies, they are totally worth it! While these German gingerbread cookies don’t include milk-boosting ingredients, it’s appropriate to mention how lactation cookies has been shown to help breastfeeding mommas. And who doesn’t love cookies? It’s a tasty way to ingest less-common ingredients in our culture that have been proven to boost milk production. More of these spices can be consumed in tea, but that’s not as appealing to all mommas as cookies. Give this recipe a try or make some for your breastfeeding momma-friend! She.Will.Love.You. #postpartumpresent #cookiesnotcasseroles

The magic ingredient is…

The link between beer and cookies you’re wondering? A common ingredient used in both – brewer’s yeast. It’s rich in Vitamin B-complex, iron and protein (all good things, especially for new mommas!). You can take brewer’s yeast as a supplement, but for baking purposes you’ll find it in powder form, just as they brew it for beer. The two other common ingredients in lactation cookies are oats and flaxseed. You won’t find this in beer, however. So, enjoy this Oktoberfest with a cold beer and a cookie! Happy eating and drinking to you and your little babe!

Today’s Bold Momma

Natalie is co-founder of Baby Boldly, wife to James and mom to Abigail (4 years) and Mabel (1 year). Her passion (alongside pizza and chocolate) is with new moms and dads, striving to empower them for improved birth and postpartum experiences and changing the way society relates to new moms’ and dads’ unique needs.