Is Barley Good for Breastfeeding? How This Grain Supports Supply

Posted on May 16, 2026

Is Barley Good for Breastfeeding? Your Guide to This Lactation Superfood

Introduction
What is Barley?
How Barley May Support Milk Supply
Understanding Beta-Glucan
The Role of Malted Barley
Traditional Barley Water for Lactation
Barley and Beer: Addressing the Myth
Nutritional Profile of Barley
How to Add Barley to Your Meal Plan
Hydration and Milk Supply
The Importance of Frequent Milk Removal
Considerations and Safety
Combining Barley with Other Support
The Foundation of Milk Supply
When to Seek Professional Support
Conclusion
FAQ

Introduction

If you have ever worried about your milk supply, you are not alone. Many nursing parents experience moments of doubt, wondering if their bodies are producing enough to keep their little ones satisfied and growing. It is a common concern that often leads to a search for natural ways to provide a little extra support. One of the most traditional suggestions you might hear from a fellow mom or a grandmother is to try eating more barley.

Barley is a versatile cereal grain that has been used for centuries in various cultures to support nursing parents. At Milky Mama, we believe that education and nutrition are key pillars of a successful breastfeeding journey. We want to help you understand the science behind these traditional remedies so you can make informed choices for your wellness. In this article, we will explore why barley is a powerhouse for lactation and how it may help you reach your feeding goals.

While every breastfeeding journey is unique, understanding the role of nutrition can empower you to feel more confident in your body’s abilities. We are here to walk you through the evidence and provide practical tips for using this ancient grain. Barley may be a helpful tool in your lactation toolkit when paired with proper breastfeeding techniques and professional breastfeeding support.

What is Barley?

Barley is one of the oldest cultivated grains in the world, belonging to the grass family. It is a hardy cereal grain with a nutty flavor and a chewy consistency. In the United States, you most often see it in the form of pearled barley. This version has had its outer husk and bran layers removed to make it cook faster. Hulled barley is the whole-grain version where only the inedible outer shell is removed, keeping more fiber intact.

This grain is packed with essential nutrients that are beneficial for anyone but are particularly supportive for nursing parents. Barley is a rich source of dietary fiber, especially a type of soluble fiber called beta-glucan. It also contains important minerals like selenium, iron, copper, and manganese. When you are breastfeeding, your body requires extra nutrients to produce high-quality milk while maintaining your own energy levels.

Historically, barley has been used in everything from soups and stews to traditional beverages. It is a staple in many diets because it is affordable, filling, and provides sustained energy. For breastfeeding families, it is often categorized as a galactagogue. A galactagogue is a substance—typically a food, herb, or medication—that is believed to help support or increase milk production.

How Barley May Support Milk Supply

The primary reason barley is linked to milk supply is its potential effect on prolactin. Prolactin is often called the "milk-making hormone." It is produced by the pituitary gland and tells the mammary glands in your breasts to produce milk. When you nurse or pump, your prolactin levels naturally rise to ensure there is milk ready for the next feeding.

Barley contains specific polysaccharides, which are complex carbohydrates. Research suggests that these polysaccharides, particularly the beta-glucans found in barley, may stimulate the release of prolactin. By potentially increasing the levels of this hormone in your system, barley can help signal your body to maintain its milk output.

It is important to remember that while barley may help support your levels, the most effective way to produce milk is through the frequent and effective removal of milk. Think of barley as a supportive partner to your regular nursing or pumping schedule. It provides the nutritional building blocks and the hormonal nudge that many moms find helpful during growth spurts.

Key Takeaway on Hormonal Support

Barley contains polysaccharides that may naturally boost prolactin levels, the hormone responsible for signaling your body to make more milk.

Understanding Beta-Glucan

If you have spent time researching lactation-supportive foods, you have likely heard of beta-glucan. This is a type of soluble fiber found in high concentrations in both barley and oats. Beta-glucan is well-known in the health community for its ability to support heart health and manage cholesterol levels. However, in the world of breastfeeding, it is prized for its lactogenic properties.

When you consume foods rich in beta-glucan, it interacts with your digestive system in a way that may influence your endocrine system. For many moms, this translates to a more robust feeling of "fullness" in the breasts. The fiber works to slow down digestion, which can lead to a more stable release of energy throughout the day.

In addition to its potential hormonal benefits, beta-glucan is excellent for your digestive health. Many new parents struggle with digestive regularity after birth. The high fiber content in barley helps keep things moving, which can improve your overall sense of well-being. When you feel better physically, your body can focus more energy on the demanding task of lactation.

The Role of Malted Barley

You might notice that many lactation-specific products or traditional recipes specifically mention "malted" barley. Malting is a process where the grain is soaked in water and allowed to germinate (sprout) before being dried with hot air. This process activates enzymes within the grain and changes its nutritional profile.

Malted barley is often used in the production of cereal beverages and certain baked goods. Some studies have indicated that the malting process might make certain polysaccharides more accessible to the body. This is one reason why barley malt syrup is often used as a sweetener in lactation cookies or treats.

We recognize the similar power that grains like barley and oats hold. Both contain the fiber and nutrients necessary to help you feel nourished. While we often use oats as a primary grain in our treats, such as our popular Emergency Brownies, barley offers a fantastic alternative or addition to a lactation-friendly diet.

Simple Ways to Use Barley Malt:

Add barley malt syrup to your morning oatmeal for a deep, nutty sweetness.
Use it as a natural sweetener in homemade muffins or lactation cookies.
Stir a spoonful into a warm cup of milk or a dairy alternative.
Look for it in the ingredient lists of specialty lactation snacks.

Traditional Barley Water for Lactation

One of the oldest recipes for breastfeeding support is barley water. This simple drink has been used for generations in the United Kingdom, Asia, and the Middle East. It is a hydrating, nutritious beverage that is very easy to make at home. Since staying hydrated is one of the most important factors in maintaining milk supply, barley water offers a double benefit.

To make traditional barley water, you simply simmer pearled barley in a large pot of water for about 20 to 30 minutes. Once the water has taken on a cloudy appearance and the grains are soft, you strain the liquid into a pitcher. You can drink it plain, but many people prefer to add a squeeze of lemon or a small amount of honey for flavor.

The "spent" barley grains don't have to go to waste, either. You can add the cooked barley to a salad or a bowl of soup. The liquid itself is thought to be rich in the beta-glucans that have leached out of the grain during the simmering process. It is a gentle, soothing drink that many moms find helpful during those long middle-of-the-night nursing sessions.

Barley and Beer: Addressing the Myth

There is an old wives' tale that drinking a dark beer can help increase milk supply. This myth actually has its roots in barley. Historically, beer was made with high amounts of barley malt and was much lower in alcohol than the craft beers of today. People noticed that nursing parents who drank these "small beers" seemed to have a better milk supply.

However, modern science has shown us that alcohol can actually have the opposite effect. Alcohol can inhibit the let-down reflex. The let-down reflex is the process where your body releases milk from the ducts so the baby can drink. Alcohol may even slightly decrease milk production if consumed in excess. It also passes into the breast milk, which is not ideal for the baby.

The benefit that people were seeing in the past came from the barley, not the alcohol. If you want the benefits of the grain without the risks of alcohol, sticking to barley water, barley tea, or non-alcoholic malt beverages is a much better choice. These options give you the polysaccharides and nutrients your body needs to support prolactin without the dehydrating effects of alcohol.

Nutritional Profile of Barley

Beyond its potential to help with milk supply, barley is a nutritional powerhouse. When you are breastfeeding, your body is working overtime. You need a steady supply of complex carbohydrates to keep your energy up and a variety of vitamins and minerals to support your baby’s growth.

Iron for Energy

Iron is essential for producing hemoglobin, which carries oxygen in your blood. Many new moms are iron-deficient after childbirth. Low iron levels can lead to fatigue and have been linked to a lower milk supply in some cases. Barley provides a plant-based source of iron that can help replenish your stores.

Selenium and Antioxidants

Selenium is a mineral that acts as an antioxidant, protecting your cells from damage. It also plays a role in thyroid function. A healthy thyroid is vital for regulating your metabolism and the hormones involved in lactation.

B Vitamins

Barley contains several B vitamins, including niacin, thiamine, and B6. These vitamins are crucial for converting food into energy. They also support brain function and help manage stress levels. Since the postpartum period can be incredibly stressful, getting enough B vitamins is a great way to support your mental wellness.

Phosphorus and Manganese

These minerals are important for bone health. As you share your nutrient stores with your baby through your milk, it is important to replenish these minerals to keep your own bones and teeth strong.

How to Add Barley to Your Meal Plan

Incorporating barley into your diet does not have to be complicated. Because it has a mild, nutty flavor, it pairs well with both sweet and savory dishes. Here are a few easy ways to make barley a part of your daily routine:

Breakfast Barley: Replace your morning oats with cooked barley. Top it with fresh berries, a splash of almond milk, and a drizzle of barley malt syrup or honey.
Barley Soups: Add a handful of pearled barley to any vegetable or chicken soup. It acts as a natural thickener and adds a satisfying chew.
Barley Salads: Use cooked, cooled barley as a base for a grain salad. Mix it with chopped cucumbers, tomatoes, feta cheese, and a lemon-olive oil dressing.
Barley Tea: Roasted barley tea (known as Boricha in Korea or Mugicha in Japan) is a caffeine-free beverage that can be enjoyed hot or cold. It is a great way to stay hydrated throughout the day.
Barley Risotto: Use barley instead of Arborio rice to make a "farrotto." It has more fiber than white rice and holds its texture beautifully.

What to Do Next: Your Barley Action Plan

Buy pearled barley: It is the easiest to find and quickest to cook.
Make a batch of barley water: Keep it in the fridge for a hydrating, milk-supporting drink.
Swap your grains: Use barley in place of white rice or pasta once or twice a week.
Listen to your body: Notice if you feel more satisfied or if your supply feels more stable after including these foods.

Hydration and Milk Supply

While barley is a fantastic food for lactation, it works best when your overall hydration is on point. Breast milk is about 87% water. If you are dehydrated, your body may struggle to maintain a high volume of milk. This is why beverages like barley water or our Pumpin Punch™ are so popular. They provide the fluid your body needs along with specific ingredients to support lactation.

Many lactation consultants recommend drinking to thirst. You do not need to force-feed yourself gallons of water, but you should have a drink nearby every time you sit down to nurse or pump. If your urine is pale yellow, you are likely staying well-hydrated. If it is dark, it is time to reach for your water bottle or a glass of barley tea.

The Importance of Frequent Milk Removal

It is a common misconception that eating galactagogues like barley can solve supply issues on its own. The "golden rule" of breastfeeding is supply and demand. The more milk you remove from your breasts, the more milk your body will make. Barley acts as a support system for this biological process.

If you are trying to increase your supply, focus on:

Nursing on demand (whenever your baby shows hunger cues).
Ensuring a deep, comfortable latch.
Adding a pumping session after nursing if needed.
Practicing skin-to-skin contact with your baby to boost oxytocin.

Oxytocin is the hormone responsible for the let-down reflex. While prolactin (supported by barley) helps make the milk, oxytocin helps get the milk out. Activities that make you feel relaxed and bonded with your baby will help your milk flow more easily. For more guidance on supply and demand, explore this milk supply guide.

Considerations and Safety

For most people, barley is a very safe and healthy addition to a breastfeeding diet. However, there are a few things to keep in mind.

Gluten Content

Barley is a gluten-containing grain. If you have Celiac disease or a non-celiac gluten sensitivity, you should avoid barley. In these cases, oats (certified gluten-free) or other grains like quinoa and millet are better options for supporting your supply.

Gradual Introduction

Because barley is very high in fiber, introducing a large amount into your diet suddenly might cause some gas or bloating. Start with small servings and increase your intake as your digestive system adjusts. This will help you get the benefits of the grain without any discomfort.

Consult a Professional

If you are struggling with a significantly low milk supply or if your baby is not gaining weight, it is important to speak with a healthcare provider or a certified lactation consultant. While foods like barley can help, there may be underlying issues like a tongue-tie or hormonal imbalance that need professional attention.

Combining Barley with Other Support

Using barley is just one way to care for yourself while breastfeeding. At Milky Mama, we focus on a holistic approach. This includes proper nutrition, hydration, and emotional support. You might find that eating a bowl of barley soup for lunch and having one of our lactation snacks in the afternoon gives you the energy boost you need to get through the day.

Our supplements, like Pumping Queen™ or Milk Goddess™, are designed to work alongside a healthy diet. They contain concentrated amounts of supportive herbs that complement the nutrients found in whole grains like barley. When you combine good nutrition with high-quality support products, you are giving your body the best environment possible for successful lactation.

The Foundation of Milk Supply

While we love talking about the benefits of barley, it is important to remember that you are the most important part of the equation. Your rest, your mental health, and your confidence all play a role in your breastfeeding journey. Breastfeeding is a natural process, but it doesn't always come naturally. It is a skill that both you and your baby are learning together.

Don't be afraid to ask for help. Whether it is joining a support group, booking a virtual lactation consultation, or just talking to a friend who has been there, support is essential. You are doing an amazing job, and every drop of milk you provide for your baby is a gift.

Takeaway on Support

Nutrition is a powerful tool, but it works best when combined with frequent nursing, proper hydration, and a strong support system.

When to Seek Professional Support

While adding barley to your diet is a great step, sometimes you need a bit more guidance. You should reach out to an International Board Certified Lactation Consultant (IBCLC) or your pediatrician if:

Your baby has fewer than six heavy wet diapers in 24 hours.
Your baby is consistently fussy or seems hungry immediately after a long feeding.
You are experiencing significant pain during nursing.
You are concerned about your baby’s weight gain.

A professional can help you develop a plan that includes both nutritional support and technical adjustments to ensure your breastfeeding journey is as smooth as possible.

Conclusion

Is barley good for breastfeeding? The answer for many families is a resounding yes. Its unique combination of prolactin-boosting beta-glucans and essential minerals makes it a top-tier food for nursing parents. Whether you enjoy it as a comforting bowl of soup, a refreshing glass of barley water, or a nutty breakfast grain, barley can provide the support your body needs during this demanding time.

Remember that there is no "perfect" diet for breastfeeding. The goal is to nourish your body with foods that make you feel good and support your milk production. Barley is an affordable, accessible, and scientifically backed option that fits perfectly into a balanced lifestyle.

Barley may help boost prolactin, the milk-making hormone.
It is rich in iron, fiber, and essential minerals for postpartum recovery.
Hydrating options like barley water provide dual benefits for supply.
Combine barley with frequent milk removal for the best results.

"Your well-being matters just as much as your milk supply. Take the time to nourish yourself with foods that support your body and your spirit."

If you are looking for more ways to support your lactation journey, explore Milky Mama's lactation drink mixes and lactation supplements. We are here to support you every step of the way with products designed by a nurse and lactation consultant who understands exactly what you are going through.

FAQ

Does barley increase milk supply quickly?

While some parents notice a difference within a day or two of adding barley or barley water to their routine, every body responds differently. It is best to use barley as a consistent part of your diet rather than a one-time fix. For the best results, ensure you are also nursing or pumping frequently to signal your body to make more milk.

Can I drink barley tea while breastfeeding?

Yes, roasted barley tea is a popular, caffeine-free choice for many nursing parents. It is a great way to stay hydrated and provides a mild, nutty flavor that many find soothing. Since it is caffeine-free, you can drink it throughout the day and even in the evening without worrying about it affecting your baby's sleep.

Is barley better than oats for milk supply?

Both barley and oats are excellent sources of beta-glucans, which are known for their lactogenic properties. Many parents find that a combination of both grains works well for them. If you enjoy the taste of one over the other, feel free to prioritize that, as both offer similar nutritional benefits for breastfeeding. You can also explore Milky Mama's lactation cookies and treats.

Can I use barley if I have a gluten intolerance?

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