Hi, I’m Hilary.
I can still remember how drained I felt in those early weeks—not just tired, but completely depleted. My body was adjusting, my hormones were shifting, and every ounce of energy I had was going toward feeding my baby.
I did what every new mum does. I focused on the latch, the frequency of feeds, the positioning. But what I didn’t focus on—what no one had really told me—was how much hydration mattered. I was drinking water constantly, but I still felt exhausted, lightheaded, and like my milk supply wasn’t quite where it should be.
That’s when I learned something that changed everything: breastfeeding is about more than just feeding—it’s about replenishment. Every time we nurse, our bodies transfer fluid, nutrients, and minerals into our milk. If we don’t restore what we’re losing, we start running on empty. And when we’re depleted, our milk supply can suffer.
Why Hydration Matters for Breastfeeding
Breast milk is made up of almost 90% water, which means a mother’s fluid intake directly impacts her ability to produce milk. Research has shown that even mild dehydration can reduce milk supply because the body prioritises essential functions over lactation when fluids are low.
The effects of dehydration go beyond milk production. Many postpartum symptoms—fatigue, headaches, dizziness, brain fog, and sluggish digestion—can often be traced back to fluid and mineral imbalances. Yet, despite how common this is, many mothers assume their exhaustion is simply part of the postpartum experience rather than a sign that their body needs replenishment.
But here’s what most people don’t realise—plain water isn’t always enough. When I was struggling, I drank litres of water each day, yet I still felt exhausted. That’s because hydration is about more than just fluid intake—it’s about electrolytes, minerals, and nutrients that actually help the body absorb and use that water effectively.
Why Herbal Teas Are More Effective Than Water Alone
We’re often told to “drink more water” when breastfeeding, but hydration doesn’t work that way. The body needs electrolytes, trace minerals, and plant compounds to actually retain and utilise fluids efficiently. That’s why herbal teas, especially those formulated for breastfeeding and postpartum recovery, can be more effective than water alone.
A breastfeeding support infusion like The Breastfeeding Herbata doesn’t just hydrate—it delivers bioavailable nutrients that actively support milk production, hormone balance, and overall postpartum recovery.
Here’s how the herbs in a milk supply boost tea work together to nourish and restore:
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Stinging Nettle & Oat Straw – Naturally rich in calcium, magnesium, and iron, helping to replenish minerals lost during breastfeeding. These nutrients support muscle function, circulation, and energy levels, all of which impact milk production.
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Fennel & Moringa – Known for their ability to increase milk supply naturally, these herbs also contain vital antioxidants and phytonutrients that reduce inflammation and support postpartum healing.
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Holy Basil & Vervain – Adaptogenic herbs that help regulate cortisol levels and promote relaxation, which is key because stress can significantly impact let-down reflex and milk flow.
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Cinnamon & Cardamom – Warming spices that aid digestion and circulation, helping nutrient absorption and postpartum recovery while also making the tea naturally soothing and enjoyable to drink.
This hormone-balancing breastfeeding tea offers hydration plus nourishment, making it far more effective than just increasing water intake alone.
The Connection Between Stress, Hydration & Milk Flow
One of the biggest surprises for me was learning that stress and hydration are deeply connected.
When we’re dehydrated, our cortisol levels can rise, triggering the body’s stress response. High cortisol levels interfere with oxytocin, the hormone responsible for milk let-down. This means that even if your body is making enough milk, stress and dehydration can make it harder for that milk to flow.
For me, drinking a nourishing lactation tea wasn’t just about hydration—it became a ritual. A moment to pause, breathe, and reset. And I noticed something incredible: the more relaxed I was, the easier my milk flowed.
A warm cup of breastfeeding tea not only hydrates but also creates a calming moment in the day, signaling the body to slow down, reducing stress hormones, and allowing milk to flow more freely.
How to Stay Hydrated While Breastfeeding
If you’re feeling constantly thirsty, exhausted, or struggling with milk flow, consider these hydration strategies:
✔ Start your day with hydration. Before your first feed, drink a warm breastfeeding-friendly tea to replenish fluids lost overnight.
✔ Sip throughout the day. Keep a large bottle of water or a mineral-rich lactation infusion nearby at all times.
✔ Prioritise electrolytes and nutrients. Herbal infusions like this postpartum tea for breastfeeding contain bioavailable minerals that support hydration better than plain water.
✔ Listen to your body. If you’re feeling dizzy, lightheaded, or constantly fatigued, take it as a sign to increase fluid intake and focus on replenishing lost minerals.
Caring for Yourself is Caring for Your Baby
I wish I had known sooner that taking care of myself was not a luxury—it was a necessity. The more I nourished myself, the easier breastfeeding became. The more I supported my body, the more milk I made.
If you’re struggling with milk supply, exhaustion, or simply feeling depleted, start with the basics. Hydrate deeply. Nourish yourself. Give your body what it needs to do what it was designed to do.
A cup of lactation-boosting herbal tea won’t fix everything overnight—but it can be a small, grounding step toward feeling more balanced, replenished, and in tune with your body’s needs.
Because the truth is, when we care for ourselves, we can show up stronger for our babies, too.
HORMONAL & PROUD
Created as a brand to help women navigate the toughest moments in pregnancy, childbirth, postpartum — and practically every stage of life –– The SABI is changing the narrative around our hormones from one of taboo, embarrassment, and loneliness to awareness and even, pride. As more than a wellness brand, The SABI offers a carefully-crafted line of products to carry you through your hormonal journey, including rituals, supportive tools, and ancient herbal remedies that have been tested time and time again by women and now come backed by medicine. The SABI is a blend of science and nature conceived by women who have experienced the joys and deep struggles of bringing a child into the world, the pains of a heavy, difficult period, miscarriage, and difficulty conceiving.
We invite you to get to know your body and its cycles better –– to really understand what is going on inside. Learn to use your hormones to your advantage no matter your stage of life, and know that you can support and balance your hormone levels. We are here to help with the information, understanding and natural tools to support your body and the emotional process along with it.
