Moringa Supplementation for Improved Milk Output

Investigating the Effect of Moringa Oleifera Leaf Powder on Breastmilk Quantity and Quality: a Double Blinded Randomized Placebo-controlled Trial

The overall objective is to obtain preliminary data on the effect of Moringa oleifera leaf supplementation (moringa) at 4g daily for four weeks compared to placebo to improve human milk quantity and quality and infant health. Hypothesis: Four grams of moringa daily by mouth compared to placebo will increase breastmilk output and percent of mother's own milk consumed by infant.

Mom

YES:

• willing to breastfeed or pump for one week
• willing to complete study activities (at minimum measure 24 hour pumped volume at start and end of capsules, take capsules daily, and answer questions)
• has access to breastpump (in hospital and/or home)
• English speaking
• 18 years or older
• Gave birth between 2-6 weeks prior to study start

NO:

• taking metoclopramide (trade name Reglan) currently or within 2 weeks of enrollment
• taking moringa regularly or within 2 weeks of enrollment
• breast surgery (amplification, reduction, or other)
• breast condition: Insufficient Glandular tissue
• unprescribed or street drug use at any point in pregnancy, or enrolled in rehab program or receiving addiction therapy
• refuses to take 4 capsules twice daily within 2 days of study start
• wishes to withdraw within 2 days of study start

Infant

YES:

• 28-36 and 7 weeks gestation (ie 37 weeks is too old)
• 2-6 weeks old
• singleton birth

NO:

· any condition where breastmilk is clinically contraindicated