Is elderberry ok for breastfeeding?

Elderberry and Breastfeeding
The use of elderberry during breastfeeding is a topic of some debate. While elderberry is generally considered safe for most adults, there is limited research on its safety and efficacy for breastfeeding mothers and their infants.
Key Points:
– Elderberry contains compounds like flavonoids and anthocyanidins that may have immune-boosting properties, making it a popular choice for supporting health during cold and flu season.
– However, the leaves, bark, and roots of the elderberry plant can contain potentially toxic compounds like sambunigrin, which can release cyanide. Cooked berries do not carry this risk.
– Most medical professionals advise caution when using elderberry while breastfeeding, as there is a lack of scientific data on its safety and effects on breastfed infants.,
– Some sources suggest elderberry may be used short-term while breastfeeding, but it’s generally recommended to consult with a healthcare provider before doing so.
– A few anecdotal reports suggest elderberry may have been used as a galactogogue (to increase milk supply) in Turkey, but this use is not supported by clinical trials.
– Overall, the consensus seems to be that the safety of elderberry during breastfeeding is unknown, and it’s best to err on the side of caution unless your healthcare provider specifically recommends and approves its use.
In summary, while elderberry may have potential benefits, the limited research on its safety for breastfeeding mothers and infants means that most experts advise against its use during this time, unless specifically recommended by a healthcare provider.

Is elderberry safe while breastfeeding?

Bottom line: There’s some evidence that it’s effective, but it’s generally not recommended for pregnant or breastfeeding women, or for children.

What not to take while breastfeeding?

Common medicines that are not recommended when you’re breastfeeding include:

• codeine phosphate.
• decongestants that come as tablets, liquids or powders that you swallow.
• some nasal decongestants that come as nose sprays or drops – check with a GP or pharmacist before using them.
• aspirin for pain relief.

What supplements should I avoid while breastfeeding?

Dietary Supplements and Herbs to Avoid When Breastfeeding

• Answer: Certain herbals, high dose vitamins, and other dietary supplements can be dangerous to breastfed babies through breast milk.
• Aloe latex.
• Ashwagandha.
• Berberine/goldenseal.
• Bilberry.
• Black cohosh.
• Butterbur.
• Dong quai.

What vitamins decrease milk supply?

If you haven’t nursed your infant yet, high doses of vitamins B1 (thiamine), B6 (pyridoxine), and B12 (cobalamin) may work to suppress lactation. One older study from the 1970s suggested that high doses B6, B1, and B12 suppressed lactation for 96% of the participants, with no unpleasant side effects.

Is it safe to take elderberry while pregnant?

Due to lack of evidence of efficacy and safety, health care personnel should not advice pregnant women to use echinacea or elderberry against upper respiratory tract infection.

What is not recommended for breastfeeding?

Medical Contraindications for Breastfeeding
There are a few medical contraindications to breastfeeding, and these include: An infant who has the metabolic disorder of classic galactosemia (galactose 1-phosphate uridyltransferase deficiency). A mother living with human T-cell lymphotrophic virus type I or type II.

How can I boost my immune system while breastfeeding?

How Breastfeeding Moms Can Strengthen Their Immunity

1. Eat a balanced diet. Following a well-rounded diet will help protect your body against colds, flus, and other illnesses.
2. Drink plenty of fluids. Staying hydrated will help your immune system—and your milk supply, too.
3. Catch some ZZZs.
4. Get Moving.
5. Keep stress in check.

Can I take emergen C while breastfeeding?

Yes, you can take Emergen-C while breastfeeding, but it’s important to not exceed the recommended dosage. Emergen-C is a supplement rich in vitamin C, often used for boosting immune health. However, while vitamin C is crucial for both you and your baby, consuming it in large amounts can cause digestive upset.

Will my baby catch my cold if I breastfeed?

With most common illnesses like a cold or flu, it is safe to continue breastfeeding your baby as long as you take proper hygiene precautions like handwashing. Continuing to breastfeed will help you to maintain your milk supply and will provide your baby with protection against the illness you are experiencing.

What can I take for a cold while breastfeeding?

You can use lozenges, pastilles and throat sprays (e.g. Strepsils®, Ultra-Chloraseptic throat spray®, Difflam®) when you are breastfeeding, to relieve your symptoms. There is very little data on whether these products affect breastfed infants, but they have been used extensively without reports of problems.