Are Tums safe when breastfeeding?

Are Tums Safe When Breastfeeding?
When it comes to managing heartburn or indigestion during breastfeeding, many mothers wonder about the safety of over-the-counter medications like Tums. Tums, which primarily contain calcium carbonate, are commonly used antacids that can provide quick relief from discomfort. But is it safe to use them while nursing?
General Safety of Tums During Breastfeeding
According to health experts, Tums are generally considered safe for breastfeeding mothers. The consensus is that the active ingredient, calcium carbonate, poses minimal risk to infants when taken in recommended doses. It is advised that mothers consult with their healthcare providers to tailor the dosage based on their feeding schedule, which can help mitigate any potential effects on the baby.
Calcium Intake Considerations
Calcium carbonate not only serves as an antacid but also acts as a calcium supplement. For breastfeeding mothers aged 19 and older, the recommended dietary allowance (RDA) for calcium is 1,000 mg per day, with an upper limit of 2,500 mg. This means that taking Tums can contribute to meeting daily calcium needs, which is beneficial for both the mother and the breastfeeding infant.
Absorption and Effects on Infants
Research indicates that the absorption of calcium carbonate is low, and thus, the amount that could potentially pass into breast milk is minimal. Studies have shown that antacids, including those containing calcium, are generally well-tolerated during breastfeeding, with no significant adverse effects reported in infants.
Precautions and Recommendations
While Tums are deemed safe, it is still crucial for breastfeeding mothers to use them judiciously. Overuse of any medication, including antacids, can lead to side effects such as constipation or altered calcium levels. Therefore, it is recommended that mothers monitor their intake and consult healthcare professionals if they have any concerns or if symptoms persist.
In summary, Tums can be a safe option for breastfeeding mothers seeking relief from heartburn, provided they are used as directed and in consultation with a healthcare provider. This approach ensures that both the mother’s health and the baby’s safety are prioritized.

How do you treat acid reflux while breastfeeding?

Helping your baby with reflux

1. get advice about your baby’s breastfeeding position.
2. hold your baby upright during feeding and for as long as possible after feeding.
3. burp (or wind) your baby regularly during feeds.
4. make sure your baby sleeps flat on their back (they should not sleep on their side or front)

Is it safe to take Tums while pregnant?

Key Takeaways. Tums are perfectly safe to take during pregnancy. Use as directed (two to three tablets as symptoms occur) and don’t take more than five tablets in 24 hours. It’s also safe to take Pepcid, Pepcid Complete, Prevacid, Prilosec, and other similar antacids during pregnancy.

Is TUMS safe for newborns?

Babies with uncomplicated GER (“happy spitters”) do not benefit from medicines that reduce stomach acid. All of these medicines, even antacids, can cause side effects and are not recommended for babies unless you talk to your child’s health care provider.

Can I take Pepto and Tums while breastfeeding?

Pepto-Bismol and breastfeeding
Do not take Pepto-Bismol if you’re breastfeeding.

Will my upset stomach affect my baby while breastfeeding?

A nursing mother with diarrhea caused by food or water sources can continue to breastfeed her child. However, she should also increase her own fluid intake to prevent dehydration (loss of too much water in the body). The organisms that cause travelers’ diarrhea do not pass through breast milk.

Can breastfeeding moms have Tums?

Bismuth subsalicylate compounds (such as Pepto Bismol) contain enough aspirin ingredients that they may not be safe for your baby. For a sour stomach or heartburn, Tums and Rolaids are safe to use.

What is the best medicine for upset stomach while breastfeeding?

Cimetidine, ranitidine, famotidine
Ranitidine and famotidine appear to carry minimal risk in pregnant women,6, 7 cimetidine has a small risk. Similarly, ranitidine and famotidine are the preferred choices in breastfeeding women.

What are the best antacids for breastfeeding?

There is extensive experience of use of antacids during breastfeeding and they are considered first-line options for managing heartburn or dyspepsia. Alginates and simeticone are also considered acceptable for use during breastfeeding.

What medications decrease milk supply?

High dose steroids (such as Solumedrol) Strong antihistamines such as diphenhydramine (Benadryl) Testosterone. Estrogen.

What not to take while breastfeeding?

Common medicines that are not recommended when you’re breastfeeding include:

• codeine phosphate.
• decongestants that come as tablets, liquids or powders that you swallow.
• some nasal decongestants that come as nose sprays or drops – check with a GP or pharmacist before using them.
• aspirin for pain relief.