If you’re deep in the newborn trenches and desperately Googling “how to boost milk supply,” chances are you’ve come across the words: brewer’s yeast. But does it actually work? And if so, how? As a midwife and a mum of three, I’ve been right where you are - sleep deprived, second guessing everything, and willing to try anything that might help keep that milk flowing.
Here’s what you need to know about brewer’s yeast for breastfeeding, why it’s in every one of our lactation bars, and how to tell if it’s worth trying for yourself.
What is Brewer’s Yeast?
Let’s start simple.
Brewer’s yeast is a nutrient-rich, inactive yeast that’s traditionally used in beer and bread-making. It’s packed with B-vitamins, chromium, selenium, protein, and iron all of which are helpful nutrients for tired, recovering, breastfeeding bodies.
Unlike baking yeast, it won’t rise or ferment in your system. And while it might not win flavour of the year on its own, when combined thoughtfully [like we do at Lila Jasmine], it’s both beneficial and totally bearable.
Brewer’s Yeast and Milk Supply: Is There a Connection?
There’s no shortage of anecdotal evidence from mums saying brewer’s yeast made a difference, particularly in those early cluster feeding days when supply dips can shake your confidence.
Here’s what the research and experience suggest:
- Brewer’s yeast may help support prolactin, the hormone that signals your body to make more milk.
- Its high B-vitamin content can help with energy and mood, especially in postpartum mums navigating hormonal shifts.
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Some women notice an increase in supply within a few days of adding it to their routine particularly when paired with oats, chia seed and flaxseed - two more breast milk friendly ingredients we include in every bar.
It’s not magic. It won’t override supply issues rooted in latch or feeding frequency. But for many mums it’s part of a helpful, nourishing toolkit.
Why We Use Brewer’s Yeast in Our Lactation Bars
At Lila Jasmine, we don’t believe in throwing everything into a bar and calling it “functional.” We believe in thoughtful, purposeful ingredients and brewer’s yeast earned its spot. Each of our lactation bars is made with ingredients known to support breastfeeding and postpartum recovery, including:
- Brewer’s yeast – a traditional galactagogue, rich in B vitamins, iron, and selenium to support milk supply and energy levels.
- Oats – 1 source of beta-glucan, which may support prolactin [the breastmilk-making hormone].
- Flaxseed – full of healthy fats and fibre, helpful for digestion, hormone balance, and postpartum healing.
- Chia seeds – rich in plant based omega-3s, fibre, and protein helping keep you fuller for longer.
We bake in small batches right here in New Zealand - just enough to keep things fresh, soft and ready when you need them. It means we never overproduce, and we're always focused on quality over quantity.
“I Was Skeptical… But It Worked”
We hear this all the time. Here’s what real mums are saying:
"Wasn't sure how I'd feel about lactation bars given I'm not a massive fan of other products I the market however, bit the bulled and purchased a mix of all flavours and have to admit these are so good. I look forward to eating them each day and have definitely seen a good supply of milk as a result. Will 100% be repurchasing again!" - Nadia
"My kind friend sent these to my door when I had my first baby and I absolutely love them. The dark chocolate makes them so moreish. I snack on a bar throughout the night when I am awake and starving during those night feeds. These bars will be my go to for any new mama as a gift when their little one arrives too." - Madison
"These bars are amazing. 5.5 months in breastfeeding and I thought I'll be fine if I have one bar a day [they are so yummy]...but no, my breasts are back to the early days of leaking and being rock hard full of milk. Back down to one bar every second day I think. Thanks!" - Anna
Want to Try It for Yourself?
Whether you’re navigating the early weeks or looking for a helpful, nourishing snack to support your feeding journey, we’ve got you.
- Try our Mix of Six Lactation Bars — a sampler of all three flavours, each containing brewer’s yeast, oats, chia seeds and flaxseed.
- Or join our mailing list for $5 off your first order plus mum-friendly content like snack lists, breastfeeding tips, and gentle support when you need it most. Subscribe HERE
- Shop lactation bars HERE
You deserve to feel nourished, supported, and never alone in this.