Page Content [show]
The Impact of Vitamin B12 on Breastfeeding
Vitamin B12, an essential nutrient crucial for various bodily functions, plays a significant role in breastfeeding, particularly concerning the health of both mothers and infants. As breastfeeding is often touted as the optimal method of infant nutrition, understanding the implications of B12 levels in breast milk is vital for ensuring the well-being of nursing mothers and their babies.
Vitamin B12 in Breast Milk
Breast milk naturally contains vitamin B12, which is vital for an infant’s development, particularly for brain health and the formation of red blood cells. The recommended daily intake of vitamin B12 for lactating women is approximately 2.8 micrograms, while infants aged six months or younger require about 0.4 micrograms per day. However, the concentration of B12 in breast milk is heavily influenced by the mother’s dietary intake. Mothers who consume animal products typically have higher levels of B12 in their milk compared to those on strict vegetarian or vegan diets.
Risks of Deficiency
Infants who are exclusively breastfed by mothers following a vegan or vegetarian diet are at a heightened risk of developing vitamin B12 deficiency. This is particularly concerning as breast milk from these mothers often contains insufficient amounts of the vitamin. The deficiency can lead to serious health issues in infants, including developmental delays and neurological problems. Therefore, it is crucial for breastfeeding mothers who do not consume animal products to consult healthcare providers about potential supplementation to ensure adequate B12 levels for both themselves and their babies.
Supplementation and Recommendations
For mothers who are deficient in vitamin B12, supplementation is not only safe but necessary. Studies indicate that treating a deficiency effectively is essential for maintaining the health of both mother and child. Some health authorities recommend that lactating women consider taking supplements to meet the increased nutritional demands during this period.
Moreover, while breast milk is generally an excellent source of nutrition, it does not provide sufficient amounts of vitamin D or B12 on its own, particularly in cases where maternal intake is inadequate. This highlights the importance of a well-rounded diet for breastfeeding mothers, ensuring they receive all necessary nutrients to support their health and that of their infants.
Conclusion
In summary, vitamin B12 is a critical component of breastfeeding that directly affects the health of both mothers and infants. Mothers on vegetarian or vegan diets must be particularly vigilant about their B12 intake to prevent deficiencies that could adversely impact their babies. Consulting healthcare professionals about dietary choices and potential supplementation is essential for ensuring that both mother and child thrive during the breastfeeding period.
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.
What vitamin is deficient in breast milk?
However, it has been demonstrated over and over again that breast milk has very low levels of vitamin D which is significant for newborns with a vitamin D deficiency and for those who are exclusively breastfed for a prolonged period of time.
Is it safe to take vitamin B12 while 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.
What are the symptoms of lacking vitamin B12?
Symptoms of vitamin B12 or folate deficiency
- extreme tiredness.
- a lack of energy.
- pins and needles.
- a sore and red tongue.
- mouth ulcers.
- muscle weakness.
- problems with your vision.
- psychological problems, which can range from mild depression or anxiety to confusion and dementia.
Does Plan B mess up milk supply?
Studies indicate that levonorgestrel does not affect the composition or amount of breastmilk, or the growth and development of the breastfed infant.
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.
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.
What vitamins stop breastfeeding?
Use Vitamin B.
Research shows that — in women who have not yet started producing breast milk — vitamin B can limit lactation. Always consult with your physician before trying to reduce or prevent your milk production.
What are the symptoms of B12 deficiency in breastfed babies?
Conclusion. Spells, tremor, and irritability are common findings in early infant vitamin B12 deficiency.
Why avoid strawberries while breastfeeding?
A quart or more of orange juice or a diet heavy in seasonal fruits such as strawberries, melons or cherries have been associated with diarrhea and colicky symptoms in some infants. Foods containing many preservatives, additives or dyes have been associated with signs of discomfort in some babies.
