Can you take milk thistle supplements while breastfeeding?

Can You Take Milk Thistle Supplements While Breastfeeding?
The question of whether breastfeeding mothers can safely take milk thistle supplements is a nuanced one, steeped in both traditional use and scientific caution. Milk thistle, known for its liver-protective properties, has been used for centuries in various herbal remedies. However, its safety during breastfeeding remains a topic of debate among healthcare professionals.
Traditional Use vs. Scientific Evidence
Historically, milk thistle has been considered safe for use by pregnant and breastfeeding women. Some proponents argue that it can even help increase milk supply, suggesting that it may be beneficial for nursing mothers. However, the scientific community has not reached a consensus on its safety during lactation. The lack of extensive research means that while some anecdotal evidence supports its use, there is no definitive proof to guarantee its safety for breastfeeding infants.
Potential Risks and Allergies
One of the primary concerns regarding milk thistle is the potential for allergic reactions, particularly in individuals with known allergies to plants in the Asteraceae family, which includes daisies and artichokes. For these individuals, consuming milk thistle could pose significant health risks. Additionally, the general recommendation is to approach herbal supplements with caution, especially during breastfeeding, as the effects on infants are not well-studied.
Expert Recommendations
Health experts often advise that breastfeeding mothers should consult with healthcare practitioners before starting any herbal supplements, including milk thistle. This is particularly important because dietary supplements are not subject to the same rigorous pre-marketing approval processes as pharmaceuticals, leading to variability in quality and concentration.
While some sources suggest that milk thistle is relatively safe when used in moderation, the consensus leans towards caution. The Royal Women’s Hospital notes that many complementary and alternative medicines lack sufficient research regarding their safety during breastfeeding.
Conclusion
In summary, while milk thistle has been traditionally used by breastfeeding women and may offer some benefits, its safety is not well-established. Mothers considering milk thistle supplements should engage in a thorough discussion with their healthcare provider to weigh the potential benefits against the risks, ensuring the health and safety of both mother and child.

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 milk thistle interfere with birth control?

Milk thistle might increase how fast the body breaks down estrogen pills to get rid of them. Taking milk thistle along with estrogens might decrease the effectiveness of estrogen pills.

Are there any herbs to avoid while breastfeeding?

But some herbs may affect how much milk your body makes. For instance, eating a lot of parsley could curb lactation. And too much sage and peppermint may cut your milk supply. For some nursing moms, even peppermint-flavored toothpaste and candies are a problem.

Is milk thistle safe for babies?

Stay on the safe side and avoid use. Children: Milk thistle is possibly safe when taken by mouth for up to 9 months in children 1 year of age and older. Allergy to ragweed and related plants: Milk thistle might cause an allergic reaction in people who are sensitive to the Asteraceae/Compositae plant family.

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 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.

Does milk thistle dry up breast milk?

It can boost breast milk production
One reported effect of milk thistle is that it can boost breast milk production in lactating mothers. It’s thought to work by making more of the milk-producing hormone prolactin.

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.

Can milk thistle be taken while breastfeeding?

Avoid using milk thistle because there is no information on the safety of this traditional medicine when used by breastfeeding mothers.

Can I take liver supplements while breastfeeding?

Can I take liver pills while pregnant or breastfeeding? Yes! Liver supplies you with the ultimate nutrition to pass through your breastmilk to your sweet babe.