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Is brewers yeast safe while breastfeeding?

Is Brewer’s Yeast Safe While Breastfeeding?
Brewer’s yeast, a byproduct of beer brewing, has gained popularity as a dietary supplement among breastfeeding mothers, primarily due to its reputation as a galactagogue—a substance believed to enhance milk production. However, the safety and efficacy of brewer’s yeast during breastfeeding remain subjects of debate.
#Potential Benefits and Claims
Proponents of brewer’s yeast often highlight its nutritional profile, which includes proteins, B vitamins, and minerals that are essential for both maternal health and lactation. Some anecdotal evidence suggests that it may help increase milk supply, making it an appealing option for new mothers struggling with lactation issues.
Despite these claims, scientific research supporting the effectiveness of brewer’s yeast as a lactation aid is limited. A review of existing studies indicates that while some women report positive experiences, there is a lack of robust clinical evidence to confirm its benefits for milk production.
#Safety Concerns
The safety of brewer’s yeast for breastfeeding mothers is a significant concern. According to health experts, the absence of comprehensive safety research means that brewer’s yeast should be approached with caution. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) advises against the use of substances that lack established safety profiles in nursing mothers.
Moreover, reports from mothers who have consumed brewer’s yeast indicate potential adverse effects, including weight gain, stomach cramps, dry mouth, and nausea. Approximately 11% of mothers in one study reported experiencing these side effects. Given these reactions, it is crucial for breastfeeding mothers to consider their individual health circumstances and consult healthcare providers before incorporating brewer’s yeast into their diets.
#Conclusion
In summary, while brewer’s yeast is often touted for its potential benefits in enhancing milk supply, the lack of scientific validation and safety research raises important questions. Mothers should weigh the anecdotal benefits against the possible risks and side effects. Consulting with a healthcare professional is advisable to ensure that any dietary supplement, including brewer’s yeast, aligns with their health needs and breastfeeding goals.

Is Brewers yeast better than nutritional yeast for lactation?

Note: brewer’s yeast is not the same thing as nutritional yeast and would not be a good substitute for brewer’s yeast in a smoothie or lactation cookie recipe. Nutritional yeast also provides B vitamins and protein, but is better suited to savory foods and is delicious sprinkled on stove-top popcorn.

How important is brewers yeast in lactation cookies?

Brewer’s yeast, which is traditionally used in the production of beer and ale, can also help with breast milk production. It delivers essential B-complex vitamins, minerals, and amino acids to both mom and baby. Finally, we have heart-healthy flaxseed in the mix. Flax is known as a superfood with good reason.

What can I drink to lose belly fat while breastfeeding?

1) Drink At Least 8 Cups Of Water Every Day
And it’s especially important for breastfeeding moms. Water helps your body naturally shed unwanted pounds because water: Contributes to regular body functions, like circulation, digestion, regulation of body temperature, transportation of nutrients, and milk production.

Is brewers yeast safe for breastfeeding?

When it comes to lactation, only brewer’s yeast is considered a lactogenic food, but both brewer’s yeast and nutritional yeast are great options for nursing moms.

What to use instead of brewers yeast for lactation?

Brewer’s yeast has been used by nursing mothers to help increase energy, get rid of the baby blues, and make more breast milk. While brewer’s yeast is the most commonly recommended for increased milk supply, nutritional yeast can be substituted in a pinch.

Does fenugreek actually increase milk supply?

BENEFITS FOR MOTHER AND INFANT
Stimulates breast milk production in many women. Increases milk volume within 2-3 days. Most mothers will see an increase within 2-3 days of taking fenugreek capsules as a supplement to their diet.

Is brewers yeast safe for pregnancy?

However, very little is known about the safety of brewer’s yeast during either pregnancy or breastfeeding. Ask your healthcare provider before using it. Monitor your blood sugars carefully if you’re on diabetes medications and start taking brewer’s yeast. It may cause dangerously low blood sugar (hypoglycemia ).

Who should avoid brewers yeast?

If you are being treated with any of the following medications, you should not use brewer’s yeast without first talking to your doctor.

  • Monoamine Oxidase Inhibitors (MAOIs)
  • Meperidine (Demerol)
  • Medications for Diabetes.

Does brewer’s yeast make babies gassy?

I do want to make sure I tell you that sometimes brewers yeast and flax can cause an increase in gassiness (in both you and your baby). I would recommend increasing your water intake when consuming these cookies as well as starting with just 1-2 cookies a day to see how your body, and your baby, react.

Is brewers yeast bad for babies?

Stay on the safe side and avoid use. Children: There isn’t enough reliable information to know if brewer’s yeast is safe for children, including very small premature infants. Crohn disease: Brewer’s yeast can make Crohn disease worse. Don’t use brewer’s yeast if you have Crohn disease.

Natasha Lunn

Tash is an IBCLC and Business Coach helping fellow IBCLCs create fun, profitable businesses that are more than just an expensive hobby. Before becoming an IBCLC and starting her private practice - The Boobala, Tash graduated as an Osteopath in 2008 and has been in Private Practice in South West Sydney. She was also a volunteer Breastfeeding Counsellor and Community Educator with the Australian Breastfeeding Association for 6 years. Through her business, Your Lactation Biz, Tash coaches and creates products to help new and seasoned IBCLCs build businesses that suit their personality and lifestyle.

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