The effect of moringa leaf pudding combined with mung beans on breast milk production in postpartum mothers

Abstract

Insufficient breast milk production during the early postpartum period can reduce the success of exclusive breastfeeding. Maternal nutrition is one modifiable factor that may support lactation. Moringa leaves and mung beans contain protein, minerals, phytosterols, polyphenols, and flavonoids that may stimulate prolactin and oxytocin activity. This study analyzed the effect of moringa leaf pudding combined with mung beans on breast milk production among postpartum mothers at Kartika Jaya Clinic, Samarinda. This quasi-experimental study used a pretest and posttest non-equivalent control group design. Thirty-six postpartum mothers were divided into an intervention group (n = 18) and a control group (n = 18). The intervention group received moringa leaf pudding combined with mung beans for seven consecutive days. Breast milk volume was measured using a standardized digital breast pump and measuring cup before and after the intervention. Within-group differences were analyzed using the Wilcoxon test, while between-group differences were analyzed using the Mann-Whitney test. The intervention group showed an increase in mean breast milk volume from 26.94 ml to 37.94 ml. The control group increased from 27.94 ml to 31.33 ml. The Wilcoxon test showed a significant within-group change (p = 0.000). The Mann-Whitney test showed no baseline difference between groups (p = 0.907), but a significant post-intervention difference (p = 0.002). Moringa leaf pudding combined with mung beans significantly improved breast milk production in postpartum mothers. Midwives should consider nutrition-based lactation education as part of postpartum care.