Does breast milk produce cannabinoids?

The Presence of Cannabinoids in Breast Milk: A Complex Interaction
The relationship between breast milk and cannabinoids is a topic of growing interest, particularly as research continues to uncover the complexities of the endocannabinoid system and its implications for infant development. While breast milk does not produce cannabinoids in the way that cannabis plants do, it does contain naturally occurring compounds that are similar to cannabinoids, known as endocannabinoids.
Endocannabinoids: Nature’s Own Cannabinoids
Endocannabinoids are naturally produced by the human body and play a crucial role in various physiological processes, including appetite regulation, pain sensation, mood, and memory. These compounds are vital during prenatal development and continue to be significant after childbirth. They help in the development of the infant’s brain and other systems, suggesting that breast milk is not just a source of nutrition but also a medium for delivering these essential signaling molecules.
Cannabinoids from Cannabis: THC and CBD in Breast Milk
In addition to the endocannabinoids produced by the body, studies have shown that cannabinoids from cannabis, particularly tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and cannabidiol (CBD), can also be present in breast milk. When breastfeeding mothers consume cannabis, THC can be excreted into breast milk in small quantities. Research indicates that THC can remain detectable in breast milk for extended periods, with some studies reporting detection times ranging from six days to over six weeks after use. This persistence is attributed to THC’s affinity for fat molecules, which are abundant in breast milk.
Implications for Infant Health
The presence of cannabinoids in breast milk raises important questions about the potential effects on infants. While endocannabinoids are beneficial and necessary for development, the implications of exposing infants to THC and CBD through breast milk are still not fully understood. Some studies have highlighted concerns regarding the impact of maternal cannabis use on infant development, emphasizing the need for further research to assess the long-term effects of cannabinoid exposure during breastfeeding.
Conclusion: A Dual Role of Cannabinoids in Breast Milk
In summary, breast milk does not produce cannabinoids in the traditional sense but contains both endocannabinoids—which are crucial for infant development—and cannabinoids from cannabis, such as THC and CBD, when mothers consume these substances. This dual role underscores the complexity of breast milk as a biological fluid and its importance in early human development. As research continues, it will be essential to balance the benefits of breastfeeding with the potential risks associated with cannabinoid exposure, ensuring that mothers are well-informed about the implications of their cannabis use during lactation.

How long do cannabinoids stay in breastmilk?

THC is stored in your fat cells, which means it sticks around for a long time. Studies show that although THC levels in breast milk peak one hour after use, it remains in your system for six days after use. That means you can’t just “pump and dump” milk after ingesting it to avoid exposing your baby to THC.

What drugs show up in breast milk?

Most drug molecules, including alcohol, nicotine and caffeine, are small enough to enter milk. Exceptions are drugs with high molecular weights such as heparins and insulin.

What is the main source of cannabinoids?

Cannabis sativa plant
Cannabinoids are naturally occurring compounds found in the Cannabis sativa plant. Of over 480 different compounds present in the plant, only around 66 are termed cannabinoids. The most well known among these compounds is the delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (Δ9-THC), which is the main psychoactive ingredient in cannabis.

Does breastmilk produce cannabinoids?

So, it is not surprising that maternal endocannabinoids are incorporated into human milk. Twelve endocannabinoid-related compounds have been detected in human milk. The most abundant endocannabinoid in human milk is 2-AG. Levels of 2-AG do not seem to be impacted by handling and storage, but scientific data is limited.

What can you not do while breastfeeding?

What foods and drinks should I limit or avoid while breastfeeding?

• Alcohol. There’s no level of alcohol in breast milk that’s considered safe for a baby.
• Caffeine. Avoid drinking more than 2 to 3 cups (16 to 24 ounces) of caffeinated drinks a day.
• Fish. Seafood can be a great source of protein and omega-3 fatty acids.

How long after smoking can I breastfeed again?

About 90 minutes after smoking, the level of nicotine in the mother’s blood and milk decreases by about half. Your baby will probably want to nurse frequently in the early weeks, so you may not always be able to wait that long between smoking and the next feeding.

Does the human body produce cannabinoids?

But few people know that the human body naturally produces chemicals that are very similar to delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol, or THC, the psychoactive compound in marijuana, which comes from the Cannabis sativa plant. These substances are called endocannabinoids, and they’re found across all vertebrate species.

Are drugs secreted in breast milk?

Most drugs taken by the mother are excreted in small amounts in breast milk.

How can I get natural cannabinoids?

Eat lots of leafy greens. Leafy greens contain a terpene that activate cannabinoid receptors and can help combat inflammation and autoimmunity. Eat more omega-3 essential fatty acids. Some researchers say an omega-3 deficiency will cause the ECS to not function properly.

How much CBD is in breast milk?

Median (IQR) cannabidiol (CBD) concentrations were: plasma 0.6 ng/ml (0.5-6.4) and breast milk 1.2 ng/ml (0.5-17.0). Median (IQR) THC M/P: 7.0 (1.8-34.6) and CBD M/P: 2.6. Median breast milk THC concentration increased from visit 1 to visit 2 by 30.2 ng/ml (95% CI 3.05-69.3 ng/ml).