Can you drink elderberry while breastfeeding?

Understanding Elderberry Use While Breastfeeding
Elderberry, known for its vibrant purple hue and immune-boosting properties, has gained popularity as a natural remedy for colds and flu. However, when it comes to breastfeeding mothers, the safety of elderberry consumption is a topic of considerable debate among healthcare professionals.
Safety Concerns
Most medical experts advise caution regarding the use of elderberry while breastfeeding. The primary concern stems from the potential effects on breastfed infants and the lack of comprehensive research confirming its safety in this context. While elderberry berries themselves are generally safe when cooked or processed, the leaves and raw berries contain cyanogenic glycosides, which can be harmful if ingested in significant amounts.
Moreover, elderberry products, particularly syrups, are not always properly labeled, raising concerns about the actual ingredients and their concentrations. This lack of standardization can pose risks, especially for nursing mothers who may inadvertently consume harmful components.
Mixed Opinions on Consumption
Some sources suggest that consuming elderberry in forms such as tea or lozenges is generally considered safe for breastfeeding mothers. The processing of elderberry products typically removes harmful cyanide precursors, making them less risky. However, the consensus remains that there is insufficient research to definitively recommend elderberry for nursing mothers. As a result, many healthcare providers suggest refraining from its use until more conclusive studies are available.
Recommendations for Nursing Mothers
For mothers considering elderberry, the best course of action is to consult with a healthcare provider. Individual circumstances can vary widely, and a medical professional can provide personalized advice based on health history and specific needs. While some mothers report positive experiences with elderberry syrup during their postpartum period, it is crucial to approach its use with caution and informed consent.
In summary, while elderberry may offer benefits for immune support, breastfeeding mothers should prioritize safety and consult with their healthcare providers before incorporating it into their diets. The potential risks, coupled with the lack of solid research, suggest that caution is warranted in this area.

What supplements should I avoid while breastfeeding?

Dietary Supplements and Herbs to Avoid When Breastfeeding

• Answer: Certain herbals, high dose vitamins, and other dietary supplements can be dangerous to breastfed babies through breast milk.
• Aloe latex.
• Ashwagandha.
• Berberine/goldenseal.
• Bilberry.
• Black cohosh.
• Butterbur.
• Dong quai.

Is elderberry juice safe while breastfeeding?

Elderberry, winter colds & flu, & pregnancy: MANY of you have asked me about the safety of elderberry syrup for winter health — there is no known contraindication to using the syrup on a daily basis during pregnancy (and while breastfeeding).

What can I take for a cold while breastfeeding?

You can use lozenges, pastilles and throat sprays (e.g. Strepsils®, Ultra-Chloraseptic throat spray®, Difflam®) when you are breastfeeding, to relieve your symptoms. There is very little data on whether these products affect breastfed infants, but they have been used extensively without reports of problems.

What is not recommended for breastfeeding?

Medical Contraindications for Breastfeeding
There are a few medical contraindications to breastfeeding, and these include: An infant who has the metabolic disorder of classic galactosemia (galactose 1-phosphate uridyltransferase deficiency). A mother living with human T-cell lymphotrophic virus type I or type II.

What drinks are good for breastfeeding moms?

drinking plenty of fluids – have a drink beside you when you settle down to breastfeed: water, lower fat milks, lower sugar or sugar-free drinks are all good choices.

Is emergen C safe to take while breastfeeding?

Yes, you can take Emergen-C while breastfeeding, but it’s important to not exceed the recommended dosage. Emergen-C is a supplement rich in vitamin C, often used for boosting immune health. However, while vitamin C is crucial for both you and your baby, consuming it in large amounts can cause digestive upset.

What drinks to avoid when breastfeeding?

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.

Can you take Emergen C elderberry 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.

What vitamins decrease milk supply?

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.

How can I boost my immune system while breastfeeding?

How Breastfeeding Moms Can Strengthen Their Immunity

1. Eat a balanced diet. Following a well-rounded diet will help protect your body against colds, flus, and other illnesses.
2. Drink plenty of fluids. Staying hydrated will help your immune system—and your milk supply, too.
3. Catch some ZZZs.
4. Get Moving.
5. Keep stress in check.