Does B12 pass through breast milk?

The Role of Vitamin B12 in Breast Milk
Vitamin B12, an essential nutrient for human health, plays a crucial role in the development of infants, particularly during the breastfeeding period. Research indicates that B12 is indeed present in human breast milk, making it a vital component for nursing infants. The concentration of this vitamin in breast milk can vary significantly based on maternal dietary intake and overall nutritional status.
Transfer Mechanism and Importance
During pregnancy, vitamin B12 is transferred from the mother to the fetus through the placenta, and this transfer continues postnatally through breast milk. This process is essential for the infant’s growth and neurological development. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) notes that B12 is usually transferred through breast milk, ensuring that infants receive this critical nutrient after birth.
Recommended Intake and Variability
For lactating women, the recommended daily intake of vitamin B12 is approximately 2.8 micrograms, with some authorities suggesting up to 5.5 micrograms per day to meet the needs of both mother and child. Infants aged six months or younger require about 0.4 micrograms of B12 daily. However, the actual concentration of B12 in breast milk can vary widely among women, influenced by factors such as diet, particularly the consumption of animal products, and overall health.
Impact of Maternal Diet
The nutritional profile of breast milk is significantly affected by the mother’s diet. For instance, women following a vegan or vegetarian diet may have lower levels of B12 in their milk, which could potentially lead to deficiencies in their infants. This highlights the importance of maternal supplementation, especially in populations where dietary sources of B12 are limited. Studies have shown that maternal B12 intake directly influences the levels of B12 in breast milk, emphasizing the need for adequate dietary intake or supplementation during lactation.
Conclusion
In summary, vitamin B12 does pass through breast milk, playing a vital role in the health and development of infants. The concentration of this nutrient is influenced by maternal dietary habits, making it essential for breastfeeding mothers to ensure they meet their B12 needs to support their child’s growth effectively. As awareness of nutritional needs during lactation grows, the importance of monitoring and potentially supplementing B12 intake becomes increasingly clear, particularly for mothers with dietary restrictions.

What are the negatives of B12 injections?

Common side effects

• Pain, swelling or itchy skin where you had the injection. These symptoms are usually mild and should only last a few hours.
• Feeling or being sick (nausea or vomiting) Stick to simple meals and avoid rich or spicy food.
• Diarrhoea.
• Headaches.
• Feeling dizzy.
• Hot flushes.

Can vitamins pass through breast milk?

According to the our comprehensive guidebook, The Womanly Art of Breastfeeding, if a breastfeeding mother is getting an adequate supply of vitamins in her diet, her milk will contain adequate nutrients in the perfect balance for her baby.

Does milk affect B12 absorption?

Interestingly, research has found that your body absorbs the vitamin B12 in milk and dairy products better than the vitamin B12 in beef, fish, or eggs.

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 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.

Can anything be passed through breast milk?

Infectious organisms can reach the breast milk either by secretion in the fluid or cellular components of breast milk or by contamination of the milk at the time of or after expression.

Can breastfeeding cause B12 deficiency in mother?

Some breastfeeding mothers may not be able to absorb various vitamins and minerals, such as vitamin B12, folic acid (vitamin B9), iron, and calcium.

What blocks B12 absorption?

Conditions affecting the stomach
Some stomach conditions or stomach operations can prevent the absorption of enough vitamin B12. For example, a gastrectomy, a surgical procedure where part of your stomach is removed, increases your risk of developing a vitamin B12 deficiency.

Does B12 transfer to breastmilk?

Vitamin B12 is transferred through the placenta to the fetus during pregnancy and through breast milk after birth. Infants will receive enough vitamin B12 if they: Drink breast milk from a mother who consumes adequate amounts of vitamin B12. Drink infant formula.

Is a B12 shot safe while breastfeeding?

You can have hydroxocobalamin while you’re breastfeeding. Hydroxocobalamin is a natural part of breast milk. When you have hydroxocobalamin injections as a supplement or treatment, it passes into your breast milk in low amounts and helps your baby to stay healthy.