New moms, we get it: The first few days, weeks, and months of having your little one in the world are both amazing, and of course, exhausting. But if there’s anything that we’ve learned from our years in the wellness industry, it’s this: There are endless resources available for new mamas as you navigate this exciting (and yes, tiring) journey.

Our go-to, of course, is coconut oil, and it’s a complete game-changer when it comes to breastfeeding. We know that the decision and ability to breastfeed your child isn’t available to everyone, and while whether or not you do it is one of the most divisive topics surrounding motherhood, it’s also a deeply personal choice, and one that is fully up to you, the mother.

If breastfeeding is a part of your journey, we’ve got tips for how to lean on coconut oil for extra support. Read on for our top three reasons why coconut oil is a must-have for nursing mamas—from being a magical moisturizing elixir to naturally boosting your milk supply, we’re sharing the countless ways coconut oil can help. 

Coconut Oil Is A Saving Grace For Sore Nipples

Throughout your pregnancy, coconut oil was there for you when you were looking for ways to make peace with your stretch marks. Now, with your baby out in the world, your attention may have shifted to how coconut oil can support you as you breastfeed. Unfortunately, the reality of nursing can hit fast and hard: Day and night, every few hours, you might find yourself struggling to get your baby to latch on, and as a result of the consistent (re: constant) feeding, your nipples may sting and bleed.

If that’s the case for you, don’t worry: Coconut oil does double duty acting as a natural moisturizer that helps you heal while keeping your nipplees safe from infection. What’s more, unlike many moisturizers that can be found at department and drug stores, Conscious Coconut Oil is all-natural and organic, helping you feel good about lathering it on your skin without having to go through the hassle of washing it off before you nurse. 

Lauric Acid Can Help Protect Against Infection

We’ve written about lauric acid before (and we’ll write about it again and again), but where the fatty acid truly shines is in its ability to support both mama and baby in the early months of your journey together. Lauric acid is a major component of coconut oil—and it’s an important fighter against infection. A saturated fat, the lauric acid present in breast milk helps protect your baby’s immune system. By adding coconut oil to your diet, (1 to 3 tablespoons daily will do), you can increase your breast milk’s lauric acid levels, keeping you and your baby further protected with its antimicrobial effects.

An All-Natural Solve For Naturally Boosting Milk Supply

Breastfeeding can be a lot to take on, and stress can get added to the equation if you’re wondering whether or not you’re producing enough milk for your baby. If that’s a concern for you, first off, know that you’re not alone. Many mothers, especially the new mamas among us, have exactly this thought on their minds. With the guidance of your pediatrician or lactation specialist, we encourage you to find the support you need as you navigate this journey. 

And while foods considered to increase milk supply aren’t scientifically proven, there’s a lot of power in the advice that’s shared between mothers, and anecdotal evidence suggests that coconut oil can be an effective and natural way to supplement your supply. Galactagogues, foods that are thought to increase the production of breast milk, can be a helpful addition to your routine. Coconut oil takes center-stage in these Lactation Energy Bites or you can sweeten things up with these Lactation Cookies. Both recipes are a super tasty way to support your breastfeeding journey. Cheers to filling up on healthy, hunger-satisfying fats!

Keep your jar of Conscious Coconut Oil close at hand to support you in breastfeeding and every step of your motherhood journey. Explore all of our coconut oil offerings here.