How much vitamin C is too much while breastfeeding?

Understanding Vitamin C Intake While Breastfeeding
Vitamin C, a crucial nutrient known for its antioxidant properties and role in collagen production, is particularly important for breastfeeding mothers. However, the question of how much is too much during this sensitive period is essential for both maternal and infant health.
Recommended Daily Intake
For breastfeeding women, the recommended daily intake of vitamin C is 120 milligrams. This amount is designed to support the increased nutritional needs during lactation, ensuring both mother and baby receive adequate nutrition. Vitamin C is vital not only for the mother’s health but also for the baby’s development, as it plays a role in immune function and tissue repair.
Potential Risks of Excessive Intake
While vitamin C is water-soluble and excess amounts are typically excreted through urine, there is still a threshold beyond which intake can lead to adverse effects. High doses of vitamin C, particularly above 2,000 milligrams per day, can result in gastrointestinal disturbances such as diarrhea, nausea, and abdominal cramps. These symptoms can be uncomfortable and may lead to dehydration, which is particularly concerning for breastfeeding mothers.
Moreover, while the body can tolerate high levels of vitamin C, excessive supplementation can potentially affect the infant. For instance, maternal intake of very high doses may lead to increased levels of vitamin C in breast milk, which could cause digestive issues in some infants.
Conclusion
In summary, while vitamin C is essential for breastfeeding mothers, moderation is key. Sticking to the recommended intake of 120 milligrams per day is advisable, with caution exercised regarding high-dose supplements. Mothers should consult healthcare providers before making significant changes to their vitamin C intake, ensuring both their health and that of their nursing infants are prioritized.

Can too much vitamin C decrease milk supply?

Top 5 food / drinks to avoid if you have a low milk supply:
Excess Vitamin C & Vitamin B –supplements or drinks with excessive vitamin C Or B (Vitamin Water, Powerade, oranges/orange juice and citrus fruits/juice.) Peppermint or spearmint: (food, gum or candy with mint flavor)

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.

Is 1000mg of vitamin C safe when breastfeeding?

The recommended vitamin C intake in lactating women is 120 mg daily, and for infants aged 6 months or less is 40 mg daily. [1] High daily doses up to 1000 mg increase milk levels, but not enough to cause a health concern for the breastfed infant and is not a reason to discontinue breastfeeding.

Can I take 500 mg of vitamin C while breastfeeding?

Vitamin C 500mg a day is not only safe but when combined with 100 units of vitamin E, improves the milk’s biochemical antioxidant profile. Daily ingestion of 400mg of vitamin B-2 (riboflavin) should be avoided due to safety concerns for the infant.

Is 1000mg of vitamin C too much?

You should be able to get all the vitamin C you need by eating a varied and balanced diet. If you take vitamin C supplements, do not take too much as this could be harmful. Taking less than 1,000mg of vitamin C supplements a day is unlikely to cause any harm.

What does vitamin C do to a baby in the womb?

Not only does it boost your immune system and reduce your risk of suffering from iron-deficiency anaemia in pregnancy, Vitamin C is key to your baby’s physical development too. Vitamin C: Aids in the production of collagen, which supports normal growth, healthy tissue and wound healing.

Is 1000mg of vitamin C too much for a woman?

The recommended daily amount for vitamin C is 75 milligrams (mg) a day for women and 90 mg a day for men. During pregnancy, 120 mg a day are recommended. The upper limit for all adults is 2,000 mg a day.

Can too much vitamin C affect a baby?

High doses of Vitamin C during pregnancy may increase the risk of preterm birth or fetal complications. Other B vitamins, when taken in excessive amounts during pregnancy, can potentially cause adverse effects such as nerve damage or affect fetal …

How much vitamin C can you take nursing?

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].

What can suddenly decrease milk production?

Stress is the No. 1 killer of breastmilk supply, especially in the first few weeks after delivery. Between lack of sleep and adjusting to the baby’s schedule, rising levels of certain hormones such as cortisol can dramatically reduce your milk supply.