Does vitamin C pass through breast milk?

Does Vitamin C Pass Through Breast Milk?
Vitamin C, also known as ascorbic acid, is not only essential for the health of adults but also plays a crucial role in the nutrition of infants, particularly those who are exclusively breastfed. Research indicates that vitamin C is a natural component of human breast milk, serving as a vital antioxidant that contributes to the overall health of nursing infants.
Transfer of Vitamin C to Breast Milk
Studies have shown that when a lactating mother consumes vitamin C, it is quickly reflected in her breast milk. Specifically, increased levels of vitamin C can be detected in breast milk within just 30 minutes of ingestion. This rapid transfer underscores the importance of maternal diet in influencing the nutritional quality of breast milk.
The recommended daily intake of vitamin C for breastfeeding mothers is 120 mg, which is essential not only for the mother’s health but also for ensuring that her milk contains adequate levels of this nutrient for her baby. For infants, particularly those under six months, the recommended intake is about 40 mg daily, which they can receive through breast milk.
Dietary Sources and Supplementation
While vitamin C can be obtained through dietary sources, such as fruits and vegetables, its levels in breast milk can also be influenced by maternal intake. Interestingly, maternal consumption of vitamin C through food has been shown to effectively increase its concentration in breast milk, whereas supplementation alone may not have the same impact. This suggests that a balanced diet rich in vitamin C is crucial for nursing mothers.
Moreover, high doses of vitamin C, up to 1000 mg daily, can elevate the levels in breast milk, but such high intakes are generally unnecessary and may not provide additional health benefits.
Health Implications for Infants
The presence of vitamin C in breast milk is particularly significant as it can help reduce the risk of certain health issues in infants, such as atopy, which includes conditions like eczema and allergies. For exclusively breastfed infants, breast milk serves as their primary source of vitamin C, making it vital for mothers to ensure they are consuming adequate amounts of this nutrient.
In conclusion, vitamin C does indeed pass through breast milk, and its levels can be influenced by the mother’s dietary intake. Ensuring sufficient vitamin C in a lactating mother’s diet is essential for both her health and the health of her infant, highlighting the interconnectedness of maternal nutrition and infant development.

How does vitamin C affect baby?

Vitamin C is important for a healthy immune system, and during pregnancy it helps you and your baby make collagen for your tendons, bones, and skin. To get enough vitamin C during pregnancy, eat citrus fruits and other fruits and vegetables that are rich in this important nutrient.

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.

What vitamins should I avoid while 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.

Can vitamins be passed through breast milk?

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.

Are vitamin C products safe for breastfeeding?

Vitamin C plays an important role in tissue repair and helping with iron absorption, so getting the recommended 120 mg daily while breastfeeding is a must.

Can I take 2000mg of vitamin C while breastfeeding?

Can I take vitamin C while breastfeeding? Yes, the National Institutes of Health Office of Dietary Supplements say the recommended daily allowance (RDA) for vitamin C in a breastfeeding mother over age 19 is 120 mg/day with a tolerable upper intake level of 2000 mg [accessed 25 July 2023].

Does emergen C pass through breast milk?

Tell your doctor if you are pregnant before using this medication. This medication passes into breast milk.

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.

Can babies get vitamin C through breast milk?

The lowest concentrations occurred 2 months postpartum and during the spring. Thus, exclusively breast-fed infants are well protected against vitamin C deficiency, but marginal intake in lactating mothers is more common than assumed for a well-nourished population.

Can anything be passed through breast milk?

Three viruses (CMV, HIV, and HTLV-I) frequently cause infection or disease as a result of breast-milk transmission.