Can I take emergency vitamin C while breastfeeding?

Understanding Vitamin C and Breastfeeding
For nursing mothers, the question of whether to take emergency vitamin C supplements, such as Emergen-C, often arises, especially during cold and flu season. The good news is that vitamin C is generally safe to take while breastfeeding. This essential nutrient, also known as ascorbic acid, is crucial for both maternal health and the development of the infant.
Safety and Dosage
Research indicates that vitamin C does pass into breast milk, but the levels are typically proportional to the amount consumed by the mother. According to health experts, it is important for breastfeeding mothers to maintain adequate vitamin C levels, as it supports immune function and overall health. However, high doses of vitamin C—beyond the recommended daily allowance—have little to no additional benefits and could potentially lead to side effects such as gastrointestinal discomfort.
The upper limit for vitamin C intake for breastfeeding women is set at 2,000 milligrams per day. This guideline is supported by both the manufacturers of vitamin supplements and health organizations. Therefore, while taking emergency vitamin C in moderation is acceptable, exceeding this limit is not advisable.
Benefits of Vitamin C
Vitamin C plays a vital role in various bodily functions, including the maintenance of healthy skin, blood vessels, and cartilage. It is also known for its antioxidant properties, which help protect cells from damage. For breastfeeding mothers, ensuring adequate vitamin C intake can contribute to better health outcomes for both the mother and the baby.
Conclusion
In summary, taking emergency vitamin C while breastfeeding is safe as long as mothers adhere to the recommended dosage. It is a beneficial supplement that can help support the immune system during times of increased stress or illness. However, as with any supplement, it is wise to consult with a healthcare provider before starting any new regimen, especially during the breastfeeding period.

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.

Is it safe to take extra vitamin C while breastfeeding?

The recommended vitamin C intake in lactating women is 120 mg daily, and for infants aged 6 months or less is 40 mg daily. [1] High daily doses up to 1000 mg increase milk levels, but not enough to cause a health concern for the breastfed infant and is not a reason to discontinue breastfeeding.

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.

Is Emergen-C vitamin C safe during pregnancy?

Is Emergen-C safe to take while I’m pregnant? Yes, most likely. But most pregnant women in the U.S. don’t need to supplement with other forms of vitamin-C, like Emergen-C. They can get enough vitamin C from their prenatal vitamins and their diet.

Can I use Emergen-C while breastfeeding?

So you can continue to take Emergen-C to support your immune system while breastfeeding, but remember not to exceed the recommended dosage. It’s always advisable to consult with your healthcare provider when making any dietary or supplemental changes during this time.

Is it safe to take 1000mg of vitamin C while pregnant?

You can easily get the vitamin C you need from fruits and vegetables, and your prenatal vitamins also contain vitamin C. It’s not a good idea to take large doses of vitamin C when you’re pregnant. The maximum daily amount that’s considered safe is 1800 mg for women 18 and younger and 2000 mg for women 19 and over.

Who should not take Emergen-C?

Before taking this medication, tell your doctor or pharmacist your medical history, especially of: use/abuse of alcohol, liver problems, stomach/intestinal problems (such as ulcer, colitis).

Can you breastfeed after emergency C section?

Tips to help with breastfeeding after a c-section
Skin-to-skin contact with your baby in the first 24 hours after birth helps you bond with your baby and can help you start to breastfeed. If you weren’t able to have this contact, for example, if you or your baby were ill, you can still breastfeed.

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.

Is it good to take emergency pills while breastfeeding?

Studies indicate that levonorgestrel does not affect the composition or amount of breastmilk, or the growth and development of the breastfed infant. 6 Levonorgestrel is the same hormone found in the “Mini Pill”, which is considered the oral contraceptive of choice for breastfeeding mothers.