You know the drill – breastfeeding means you gotta drink A LOT of water to keep that milk flowing. But honestly, sometimes plain water just doesn’t cut it!
That’s where Body Armor comes in. You see those moms with their colorful bottles everywhere, and they swear it helps their supply.
But does it actually increase milk supply? Or is it just another hyped-up product?
Let’s break down what’s in Body Armor, see if there’s any truth behind the claims, and help you decide if it’s worth adding to your breastfeeding arsenal.
What’s in Body Armor?
So you’ve seen all those moms with their Body Armor bottles. But what’s actually in this stuff?
Well, it’s more than just fancy water. Here’s the breakdown:
- Electrolytes: Think of these like your body’s little batteries. You’ve got sodium, potassium, all that good stuff. They keep everything running smoothly, especially when you’re sweating from chasing a toddler and breastfeeding!
- Coconut Water: Some flavors have this, which is naturally hydrating and adds a bit of sweetness. It’s like nature’s sports drink.
- Vitamins: You’ll find a bunch of vitamins tucked in there too. Think of it as a little bonus, but don’t ditch your healthy meals!
- Sweeteners: This is where it varies. Most flavors have regular sugar. But if you’re watching that, grab BODYARMOR LYTE – it uses stevia instead.
Does Body Armor increase milk supply?
Here’s the deal: Body Armor won’t magically make you produce gallons of milk.
It’s NOT scientifically proven to increase milk supply. And it has no known galactagogues in its ingredient.
That said, it can definitely help in a few ways (more on that below).
Why does Body Armor increase milk supply?
I know some moms swear by Body Armor. You see them all over social media. In Facebook groups I’m in, you’ll find posts about Body Armor drinks every now and then.
Here are the REASONS why (and how) it works for some moms:
1. Hydration, hydration, hydration
Breast milk is mostly water, so you gotta keep those fluids flowing! BODYARMOR is a tasty way to stay on top of your hydration game.
2. Electrolyte Power
When you’re breastfeeding, you’re losing electrolytes like crazy. BODYARMOR helps you top those up, which is important for feeling your best.
3. Nutritional Boost
It’s got some vitamins in it, which can be a nice little extra, especially on those days when eating a balanced meal feels impossible.
4. Calorie Bump
Breastfeeding burns extra calories. Sometimes you just need something quick. Body Armor can give you a bit of energy when you’re running on empty.
Remember: Body Armor comes in a bunch of flavors, and some are definitely sweeter than others. Keep an eye on that sugar content!
Body Armor for Breastfeeding: Pros and Cons
Pros
- Hydration Plus: It’s more than just fancy water. The electrolytes in Body Armor help you absorb fluids better, which is key when you’re breastfeeding.
- Lost Nutrients: Breastfeeding makes you lose electrolytes like crazy. Body Armor helps top those back up so you feel your best.
- Flavor = More Fluids: Let’s be honest, plain water gets boring. If you like the taste of BODYARMOR, you might actually drink more, which helps with hydration.
- Quick Energy Option: Sometimes you’re just too tired to make a proper meal. BODYARMOR has some calories to give you a little pick-me-up.
Cons
- Sugar Watch: Most flavors have a decent amount of sugar. If you’re managing your intake, keep that in mind or go for the Body Armor LYTE options.
- Not a Miracle: Drinking Body Armor won’t suddenly make you overflow with milk. It’s one piece of the hydration puzzle.
- Pricey Habit: All those bottles can add up! It’s definitely cheaper to drink mostly water and use sports drinks as a supplement.
The Bottom Line: Body Armor drinks can be a helpful tool for breastfeeding moms to stay hydrated, but it shouldn’t replace good old water and a healthy diet.
How much Body Armor should you drink to increase milk supply?
Body Armor is NOT proven to increase milk production.
But, it can’t hurt to try and see if it can give you a supply boost.
It’s also a good way to get some fluids, especially if you’re not much of a water drinker.
You can start by drinking a bottle a day. Choose the LYTE version – it’s got no added sugars.
How fast does body armor increase milk supply?
If you’re dehydrated or don’t drink much water, you can see its effects in 24 hours or less.
That said, if you’re testing your body’s reaction to Body Armor, it’s probably best to give it a few days.
Some moms drink it daily. But you don’t have to.
You can try other lactation drinks like coconut water or a homemade Pink Drink (a DIY version of the popular Starbucks Pink Drink).
Alternatives to Body Armor for Hydration
While Body Armor can be a tasty way to hydrate, it’s certainly not the only option for breastfeeding moms. Here are some other great ways to stay on top of your fluids:
- Water – The Undisputed Champion: Plain water is always the best choice for hydration. It’s calorie-free, sugar-free, and essential for your body to function properly. Aim to drink water consistently throughout the day.
- Infused Water – Flavor without the Fuss: If water gets a little boring, try infusing it! Add slices of fruits like lemon, cucumber, or berries for a subtle, refreshing flavor boost.
- Coconut Water – Nature’s Electrolyte Drink: Coconut water is naturally rich in electrolytes and offers a subtle sweetness. It can be a hydrating choice on its own or as a base for smoothies.
- Herbal Lactation Teas – Hydration with Benefits: Many herbal teas (like fennel, nettle, and red raspberry leaf) are traditionally used to support lactation, but they also count towards your fluid intake!
- Homemade Electrolyte Drinks: It’s easy to whip up simple electrolyte drinks at home using water, a pinch of salt, a squeeze of citrus, and a little bit of honey or maple syrup for sweetness.
- Greater Than or Liquid I.V: If you prefer commercially sold hydration drinks, these are your two other options. Greater Than drinks are actually marketed as “lactation drinks”. Downside is, they can get quite pricey if you take them regularly.
How Do They Compare to Body Armor?
- Nutrition: Homemade options and water offer the most control over ingredients and sugar levels.
- Convenience: Body Armor wins for on-the-go ease, but homemade options can be just as refreshing.
- Overall Health: Focusing on water as your primary drink, with other options as supplements, is generally best for health, especially when watching sugar intake.
There’s room for variety in your hydration plan! Mix up your favorite drinks to keep it interesting and support your breastfeeding journey.
Have YOU tried Body Armor?
I’d love to hear from you!
If you’ve tried Body Armor for breastfeeding, let me know how it went for you. Did it boost your supply? Or did it do nothing?
What is your favorite flavor? How often did you drink it?
Leave a comment below so we can help other breastfeeding mamas!