Are cannabinoids found in breast milk?

Cannabinoids in Breast Milk: An Emerging Understanding
The presence of cannabinoids in breast milk has become a topic of increasing interest and concern among researchers, healthcare professionals, and new parents alike. Cannabinoids, the active compounds found in cannabis, such as tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and cannabidiol (CBD), have been shown to accumulate in breast milk, raising questions about the implications for breastfeeding infants.
Cannabinoid Accumulation in Breast Milk
Research indicates that cannabinoids can bind to fat molecules, which are abundant in breast milk. This affinity allows compounds like THC to be excreted into breast milk in measurable quantities. Studies have shown that THC can be detected in breast milk for up to six days after a breastfeeding mother uses cannabis . In fact, a study involving 54 milk samples from mothers who reported recent marijuana use found that THC and its metabolites were present in a significant number of samples, highlighting the potential for infant exposure.
Natural Cannabinoids in Breast Milk
Interestingly, breast milk is not just a passive medium for cannabinoids from external sources; it also contains natural endocannabinoids. These compounds play a crucial role in infant development, particularly in regulating appetite and promoting bonding between mother and child. The endocannabinoid system is vital during prenatal development and continues to be relevant after childbirth, suggesting that the presence of these natural cannabinoids may serve important physiological functions.
Implications for Infant Health
The implications of cannabinoid presence in breast milk are significant but not yet fully understood. Experts caution that while cannabinoids may have beneficial effects, such as promoting relaxation and appetite in infants, the long-term effects of exposure to THC and other cannabinoids through breast milk remain largely unknown. There is an urgent need for further research to explore how these compounds affect infant development and health.
Conclusion
As the conversation around cannabis use continues to evolve, it is crucial for breastfeeding mothers to be informed about the potential transfer of cannabinoids through breast milk. While the presence of natural endocannabinoids may support infant health, the introduction of external cannabinoids through maternal use of cannabis poses questions that warrant careful consideration. Parents and healthcare providers must navigate this complex landscape with caution, prioritizing the well-being of the infant while staying informed about the latest research developments.

How can I reduce my baby’s exposure to drugs in breast milk?

Timing of feeds

1. give the mother’s dose immediately after the infant has been fed with the aim of avoiding feeding at peak milk concentrations; or.
2. withhold breastfeeding until after a suitable washout period of the medicine. This is most appropriate for short courses of a hazardous medicine.

Does your breast milk produce cannabinoids?

So, it is not surprising that maternal endocannabinoids are incorporated into human milk. Twelve endocannabinoid-related compounds have been detected in human milk. The most abundant endocannabinoid in human milk is 2-AG. Levels of 2-AG do not seem to be impacted by handling and storage, but scientific data is limited.

What organ is affected by cannabinoids?

THC acts as a partial agonist at the cannabinoid receptor CB1 (primarily located in the brain and spinal cord as well as CB2 receptor expressed in cells of the immune system.

What substances are in breast milk?

The most abundant proteins are casein, α-lactalbumin, lactoferrin, secretory immunoglobulin IgA, lysozyme, and serum albumin. Non-protein nitrogen-containing compounds, including urea, uric acid, creatine, creatinine, amino acids, and nucleotides, comprise ~25% of human milk nitrogen.

How long do cannabinoids stay in breastmilk?

THC is stored in your fat cells, which means it sticks around for a long time. Studies show that although THC levels in breast milk peak one hour after use, it remains in your system for six days after use. That means you can’t just “pump and dump” milk after ingesting it to avoid exposing your baby to THC.

What passes through breast milk?

Foods and drinks to avoid while breastfeeding
Caffeine passes into breastmilk, so large amounts of tea, coffee and cola drinks are best avoided. Drinking small amounts of drinks with caffeine (3 or less drinks a day) should not be a problem. Alcohol also passes into breastmilk and can affect your baby.

Are drugs secreted in breast milk?

Most drugs taken by the mother are excreted in small amounts in breast milk.

Does the human body produce cannabinoids?

But few people know that the human body naturally produces chemicals that are very similar to delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol, or THC, the psychoactive compound in marijuana, which comes from the Cannabis sativa plant. These substances are called endocannabinoids, and they’re found across all vertebrate species.

What drugs show up in breast milk?

Most drug molecules, including alcohol, nicotine and caffeine, are small enough to enter milk. Exceptions are drugs with high molecular weights such as heparins and insulin.

Where else are cannabinoids found?

Phytocannabinoids are bioactive terpenoids that were thought to be exclusive to Cannabis sativa, but have now also been discovered in Rhododendron species, some legumes, the liverwort genus Radula, and some fungi.