Can you take flaxseed while breastfeeding?

Can You Take Flaxseed While Breastfeeding?
The question of whether flaxseed is safe for breastfeeding mothers is one that many new parents ponder, especially given the myriad of dietary recommendations that accompany the postpartum period. Flaxseed, derived from the plant *Linum usitatissimum*, is known for its high content of alpha-linolenic acid (ALA), a type of omega-3 fatty acid, as well as its fiber content, which can aid digestion. However, the safety and efficacy of flaxseed consumption during lactation remain somewhat ambiguous due to limited research.
Moderation is Key
Current insights suggest that while flaxseed can be beneficial, it should be consumed in moderation. The available data indicates that flaxseed is generally well tolerated by adults, including breastfeeding mothers. However, the specific effects on breast milk composition and infant health are not extensively studied. Experts recommend that if mothers choose to incorporate flaxseed into their diets, they should do so cautiously and in small amounts.
Potential Benefits
Flaxseed is rich in nutrients that can be advantageous for breastfeeding mothers. It contains dietary fiber, which can help alleviate constipation—a common issue postpartum. Additionally, the ALA found in flaxseed may contribute positively to the overall nutritional profile of breast milk, although studies have shown mixed results regarding its impact on the levels of docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) in breast milk. Some research indicates that while flaxseed oil supplementation does not significantly increase DHA levels in breast milk, it may still provide other health benefits.
Considerations for Consumption
When consuming flaxseed, it is important to note that whole flaxseeds are not easily digestible. To maximize their benefits, it is advisable to consume ground flaxseed, which can be easily incorporated into smoothies, oatmeal, or baked goods. This ensures that the nutrients are more readily available for absorption.
Consulting Healthcare Professionals
Given the limited research on flaxseed’s effects during lactation, it is prudent for breastfeeding mothers to consult healthcare professionals before making significant dietary changes. This is particularly important for those with specific health conditions or dietary restrictions. A healthcare provider can offer personalized advice based on individual health needs and circumstances.
In conclusion, while flaxseed can be a healthy addition to a breastfeeding mother’s diet, moderation is essential, and professional guidance is recommended to ensure both maternal and infant health are prioritized.

Are flax seeds good for breasts?

In postmenopausal women, lignans can cause the body to produce less active forms of estrogen. This is believed to potentially reduce breast cancer risk. There is evidence that adding ground flaxseeds into the diet decreases cell growth in breast tissue as well.

What can I drink to lose belly fat while breastfeeding?

1) Drink At Least 8 Cups Of Water Every Day
And it’s especially important for breastfeeding moms. Water helps your body naturally shed unwanted pounds because water: Contributes to regular body functions, like circulation, digestion, regulation of body temperature, transportation of nutrients, and milk production.

Does flaxseed affect breast milk?

Summary of Use during Lactation
Flaxseed oil increases the ALA content of breastmilk, but does not increase the DHA content. Maternal intake of preformed DHA, primarily derived from seafood or other marine oils, is required to increase breastmilk DHA content.

What is the biggest disadvantage of flax?

Adding flaxseed to the diet might increase the number of bowel movements each day. It might also cause side effects such as bloating, gas, stomachache, and nausea. Higher doses are likely to cause more side effects.

What foods decrease milk supply?

Top 5 food / drinks to avoid if you have a low milk supply:

• Carbonated beverages.
• Caffeine – coffee, black tea, green tea, etc.
• Excess Vitamin C & Vitamin B –supplements or drinks with excessive vitamin C Or B (Vitamin Water, Powerade, oranges/orange juice and citrus fruits/juice.)

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.

What seeds are good for breastfeeding?

Good nutritional sources of folate while nursing are essential to meet the needs of both you and your baby. Another great option is pepitas, or pumpkin seeds. Sunflower seeds and pepitas are versatile–perfect for sprinkling on a salad, adding to trail mix, or eating as a stand-alone snack.

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.

Does flaxseed affect birth control?

Taking flaxseed might decrease the effects of oral contraceptive drugs and estrogen replacement therapy. Oral drugs. Taking flaxseed might decrease absorption of oral drugs. Consider taking oral drugs and flaxseed an hour or two apart.

Who should avoid flaxseed?

Ask your doctor before taking flaxseed if you are pregnant or breastfeeding. Men with prostate cancer should ask their doctor before taking flaxseed. People with a bowel obstruction, inflamed bowel, or narrowed esophagus should not take flaxseed. It is high in fiber and could make the condition worse.