Can I use B12 while breastfeeding?

Understanding Vitamin B12 and Breastfeeding
Breastfeeding mothers often have questions about their nutritional needs, particularly regarding vitamin B12. This essential nutrient plays a crucial role in maintaining the health of both the mother and the infant.
The Importance of Vitamin B12
Vitamin B12 is vital for the production of red blood cells and DNA synthesis, and it supports the nervous system. For breastfeeding mothers, the recommended daily intake of vitamin B12 is 2.8 micrograms. This requirement is slightly higher than that for non-pregnant adults, reflecting the increased nutritional demands during lactation.
Can You Use B12 While Breastfeeding?
Yes, breastfeeding mothers can and should use vitamin B12 if needed. It is a normal component of human milk, which means that adequate maternal intake can help ensure that the infant receives sufficient amounts through breast milk. In cases where mothers have dietary restrictions—such as vegan or vegetarian diets—or other risk factors for deficiency, supplementation may be necessary. Some experts recommend a daily intake of 120 to 250 micrograms for these mothers to maintain optimal levels.
Risks of Deficiency
Vitamin B12 deficiency can have serious implications for both mothers and infants. Inadequate levels during breastfeeding can lead to developmental issues in infants, including anemia and neurological problems. Therefore, it is crucial for mothers to monitor their B12 status, especially if they have dietary restrictions or a history of gastrointestinal issues that may affect nutrient absorption.
Supplementation and Safety
For mothers who are concerned about their B12 levels, supplementation is generally considered safe during breastfeeding. Hydroxocobalamin, a form of vitamin B12, is specifically noted as safe for breastfeeding mothers. Additionally, many women continue taking their prenatal vitamins post-delivery, which often contain adequate amounts of B12.
Conclusion
In summary, breastfeeding mothers can safely use vitamin B12 supplements to meet their nutritional needs. Ensuring adequate intake is essential not only for the mother’s health but also for the healthy development of the infant. Regular screening for B12 levels, especially in those at risk of deficiency, is advisable to maintain optimal health for both mother and child.

What are the symptoms of B12 deficiency in babies?

Symptoms and signs of vitamin B12 deficiency appear between 2 to 12 months and include vomiting, lethargy, failure to thrive, hypotonia, and arrest or regression of developmental skills. Treatment with vitamin B12 corrects these metabolic abnormalities very rapidly within a few days.

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.

Does vitamin B stop breast milk?

PIP: Vitamin B6 (pyridoxine hydrochloride) is contained in most prenatal and multivitamin preparations. Available research states that pyridoxine blocks lactation and inhibits the secretion of breast milk in nursing mothers by suppressing the normally elevated prolactin hormone levels encountered during puerperium.

What decreases milk supply?

Other things that can also lead you to have low milk production include:

• Smoking or drinking.
• Some medicines and herbs.
• Hormonal forms of birth control. This is especially true for birth control that has estrogen.
• Nursing or pumping less often.
• Getting sick.
• Feeling stressed.
• Getting pregnant again.

What is the role of vitamin B12 in nursing?

Vitamin B12 is an essential water-soluble vitamin, which is vital in the production of red blood cells, nervous system function, and DNA synthesis during cell division.

What vitamins stop breastfeeding?

If you haven’t nursed your infant yet, high doses of vitamins B1 (thiamine), B6 (pyridoxine), and B12 (cobalamin) may work to suppress lactation. One older study from the 1970s suggested that high doses B6, B1, and B12 suppressed lactation for 96% of the participants, with no unpleasant side effects.

Is vitamin B12 safe when breastfeeding?

It’s OK to take cyanocobalamin if you’re breastfeeding. Vitamin B12 (including cyanocobalamin) is a natural part of breast milk. Cyanocobalamin does pass into breast milk, but it’s unlikely to cause any side effects in your baby.

Is B12 safe to take while pregnant?

Vitamin B12 supplements can be used in pregnancy but should not be needed unless you are at risk of B12 deficiency (e.g. because of a vegan diet) or have had a B12 deficiency diagnosed with a blood test.

Does vitamin B dry up breast milk?

One older study from the 1970s suggested that high doses B6, B1, and B12 suppressed lactation for 96% of the participants, with no unpleasant side effects. However, more recent studies, including ones from a 2017 literature review, suggest conflicting information regarding the effectiveness of this option.

Which vitamin is most deficient in breast milk?

While breast milk is highly nutritive, containing important immunological and growth factors, scientific investigation reveals a few short-falls. Overall, human breast milk has been found to be low in certain nutrients in developed countries: vitamin D, iodine, iron, and vitamin K.