New mothers in the US have been milking the cash cow by selling their own breastmilk for huge amounts to hungry babies and bodybuilders.
Recent parents can usually have a pretty hard time of it after leaving the hospital, what with the sleepless nights and constant worry about keeping the baby safe, but some mothers are now profiting from their breastmilk-making capabilities.
Given how remarkably expensive it can be to have a baby, especially when you take into account the cost of medical bills in the US, then you cannot blame these new mothers for seeking another source of reliable income.
Although new-born babies have the pain of being part of Generation Beta (yes really), they can grow up in a rich family so long as they continue to share their meals with thirsty bodybuilders looking for a natural pre-mixed protein shake.
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Keira Williams, a recent mother-of-one, has revealed that she is able to make a staggering amount from selling her natural nectar, charging $0.50 per ounce for other new mothers in need, and $2 per ounce for any hungry health enthusiasts who need a boost before their workout.
Speaking to the New York Post, she said: "I’ve made $800 in just one day selling my breast milk on Facebook."
However, she is wary of some of the bodybuilders approaching her on Facebook, over fears that their pre-workout drink might actually just stem from a odd obsession with lactating ladies.
Another woman confirmed that she'd sold over 7,000 ounces in the past eight months, and is using the profits to help pay the bills and fund her own business.
Nicole Howard said: "It feels like a full-time job because I’m always pumping. I’ve sold over 7,000 ounces in the past 10 months.”
Just in case you were tempted to try it, and you don't have some ready to go in the fridge, then scientists don't exactly endorse the idea that you'll be better off physically after downing the drink.
Data from Queen Mary University of London reveals that 'no scientific study has evidenced that direct adult consumption of human milk for medicinal properties offers anything more than a placebo effect.'
Fortunately, it's not just the bodybuilders who are benefitting, as adopted parents or mothers who cannot produce breastmilk are also grateful recipients, with some of the mothers even donating it to local banks.
Ruby Du, from Utah, said: "I used some of the money to by myself a new workout watch, and buy gifts for my kids and husband. We also donate portions of the funds to parents on IVF journeys.
“It feels good to give back.”
Megan Lemmons added: “I produced so much milk, and I didn’t know what to do with it. My freezer was so packed with milk that we were running out of space for food. Selling it was an answer to prayer.
“It’s the most empowering, beautiful thing I’ve ever done in my entire life. I’m proud of my milk money.”
Not that my opinion counts for much, but I'd echo the sentiments of Mark Corrigan by saying drinking breast milk as an adult is one step away from cannibalism.
James Moorhouse