Can babies get vitamin C through breast milk?

Can Babies Get Vitamin C Through Breast Milk?
Breastfeeding is a vital source of nutrition for infants, and one of the many benefits it provides is the delivery of essential vitamins, including vitamin C. This water-soluble vitamin plays a crucial role in the growth and development of babies, acting as a powerful antioxidant and supporting immune function.
Vitamin C in Breast Milk
Research indicates that breast milk naturally contains vitamin C, which is essential for infants, especially in their early months. The recommended daily intake of vitamin C for infants under six months is approximately 40 mg, while breastfeeding mothers are advised to consume 120 mg daily to ensure adequate levels in their milk. Notably, the concentration of vitamin C in breast milk can be influenced by the mother’s dietary intake. Studies have shown that maternal consumption of vitamin C-rich foods can enhance the levels of this vitamin in breast milk, whereas supplementation alone may not have the same effect.
Health Benefits for Infants
Vitamin C is vital for infants as it supports various bodily functions, including collagen synthesis, iron absorption, and immune system health. The presence of vitamin C in breast milk not only helps meet the nutritional needs of the baby but also contributes to reducing the risk of certain health issues, such as atopy, which includes conditions like eczema and allergies.
Safety and Recommendations
For breastfeeding mothers, maintaining a diet rich in fruits and vegetables can help ensure that both they and their babies receive sufficient vitamin C. While high doses of vitamin C (up to 1000 mg) can increase the levels in breast milk, such amounts are generally considered safe and do not pose a health risk to the breastfeeding infant. However, it is always advisable for mothers to consult healthcare providers before making significant changes to their diet or vitamin intake.
In conclusion, breast milk is indeed a source of vitamin C for babies, providing them with essential nutrients that support their growth and health. Mothers are encouraged to consume a balanced diet rich in vitamin C to optimize the benefits for their infants.

What vitamins should I avoid when breastfeeding?

AVOID dose of vitamin A above 700-800 mcg/day and vitamin B6 above 20-50 mg/day. Iodine can concentrate in breastmilk so do not take levels in excess of 100% RDA. There are no studies on the safety of high dose intra-venous (IV) vitamin drips in breastfeeding mothers.

Can babies get vitamin C from breastmilk?

The lowest concentrations occurred 2 months postpartum and during the spring. Thus, exclusively breast-fed infants are well protected against vitamin C deficiency, but marginal intake in lactating mothers is more common than assumed for a well-nourished population.

Can vitamin C pass through breast milk?

Water soluble vitamins, such as B and C are more variable in their transmission into breastmilk. If maternal ingestion of high dose vitamins leads to high levels in breastmilk, it needs to be determined whether that higher dose is safe for the nursing infant.

Can vitamins be passed through breast milk?

Vitamin B12 is transferred through the placenta to the fetus during pregnancy and through breast milk after birth. Infants will receive enough vitamin B12 if they: Drink breast milk from a mother who consumes adequate amounts of vitamin B12.

Does vitamin C in breast milk reduce the risk of atopy in the infant?

A higher concentration of vitamin C in breast milk was associated with a reduced risk of atopy in the infant (OR=0.30; 95% CI 0.09–0.94; P=0.038), whereas α-tocopherol had no consistent relationship with atopy.

Are vitamin C products safe for breastfeeding?

Vitamin C plays an important role in tissue repair and helping with iron absorption, so getting the recommended 120 mg daily while breastfeeding is a must.

How does breast milk reduce the risk of allergies in a baby?

Breast milk contains many active immune factors, such as cytokines, inflammatory mediators, signaling molecules and soluble receptors, which may also reduce the risk of allergic disease.

Does emergen C pass through breast milk?

Tell your doctor if you are pregnant before using this medication. This medication passes into breast milk.

What vitamins should I avoid while breastfeeding?

AVOID dose of vitamin A above 700-800 mcg/day and vitamin B6 above 20-50 mg/day. Iodine can concentrate in breastmilk so do not take levels in excess of 100% RDA. There are no studies on the safety of high dose intra-venous (IV) vitamin drips in breastfeeding mothers.

Can anything be passed through breast milk?

Infectious organisms can reach the breast milk either by secretion in the fluid or cellular components of breast milk or by contamination of the milk at the time of or after expression.