In South Asian culture, breastfeeding mothers drink jeera water. It is a traditional remedy which helps nursing mothers with postpartum recovery. It has a lot of health benefits. Let’s dig into the pros of cumin water.
1. Supports Hydration and Milk Supply
In pregnancy, it is very important to be hydrated. Breast milk contains around 88% water. Cumin water is more flavorful and calorie-free than plain water. It helps breastfeeding mothers to maintain the high fluid intake required for milk supply. Cumin also helps in inducing galactagogues. It is a substance that helps stimulate milk production. It also positively influences feeding frequency and infant weight gain.
2. Aids Postpartum Digestion
Cumin seeds contain thymol compounds, which stimulate the secretion of digestive enzymes and bile. It helps in improving the digestion of breastfeeding mothers. Jeera water helps mothers to break down food more easily. It also reduces issues like bloating, painful gas, and acidity.
3. Replenishes Iron Stores
Anaemia and fatigue are common after childbirth. Cumin seeds contain plant-based iron. It helps in boosting iron intake and combating fatigue. It is important to be positive after childbirth because exhaustion and stress can negatively impact mother’s milk.
4. Rich in Antioxidants and Minerals
Jeera water is also a good source of nutrients like calcium and magnesium. Calcium intake is too important during lactation. Breastfeeding mothers’ milk also contains calcium. If calcium intake is not good, then breast milk content will automatically be pulled from the mother’s bones.
Key Precautions
It is highly recommended that intake of Jeera water should be in moderate amounts. Take around 1 to 2 glasses a day. Take 1 teaspoon of cumin seeds and boil in one glass of water until the water becomes half a glass. Excessive intake can cause heartburn or cause blood sugar levels to drop too quickly.
It is imperative to know that breastfeeding mother should only consume cumin water (jeera water). Jeera water should not be given to infants under 6 months old. The digestive systems of infants under 6 months are too immature.
Conclusion
Overall, cumin water has numerous benefits for breastfeeding mothers. It helps in increasing milk production, improving digestion and maintaining iron in the body. Also, jeera water is a good source of antioxidants. It provides a sufficient amount of calcium and magnesium to the body. It also helps in reducing inflammation and the risk of cancer. It also hydrates the body.