Is it OK to take calcium while breastfeeding?

The Role of Calcium During Breastfeeding
Calcium is a vital nutrient for breastfeeding mothers, playing a crucial role in both maternal health and the development of the infant. During lactation, the body undergoes significant physiological changes that affect calcium metabolism. This nutrient is essential not only for the mother’s bone health but also for the proper growth and development of the baby.
Calcium Requirements for Nursing Mothers
The recommended daily intake of calcium for breastfeeding mothers is approximately 1,000 to 1,300 milligrams, depending on age and specific health guidelines. This intake is essential to ensure that both the mother and the infant receive adequate calcium for bone development and overall health.
Interestingly, research indicates that most breastfeeding women do not require additional calcium supplements beyond what is typically recommended for their age group. Studies have shown that women can meet their calcium needs through a balanced diet without the necessity for extra supplementation.
Dietary Sources of Calcium
For nursing mothers, incorporating calcium-rich foods into their diet is a practical approach to meet these nutritional needs. Dairy products such as milk, cheese, and yogurt are excellent sources of calcium. Additionally, non-dairy options like leafy greens, almonds, and fortified foods can also contribute significantly to daily calcium intake.
Conclusion: Is It OK to Take Calcium Supplements?
In summary, while it is perfectly acceptable for breastfeeding mothers to take calcium, it is generally not necessary to take supplements if they are consuming a balanced diet that meets the recommended calcium intake. However, if a mother has specific dietary restrictions or health concerns, consulting with a healthcare provider is advisable to determine the best course of action regarding calcium intake. This ensures both the mother’s health and the optimal development of her child during this critical period.

What are the symptoms of low calcium while breastfeeding?

Muscle Cramps and Weakness. Lactating mothers experiencing unexplained muscle cramps or weakness may be exhibiting early signs of calcium deficiency.

What vitamins should I avoid while breastfeeding?

Daily ingestion of 400mg of vitamin B-2 (riboflavin) should be avoided due to safety concerns for the infant. A high dose of vitamin B-6, such as 200mg-600mg daily for many months/years can increase the risk of neuropathy in the mother.

Is it okay to take calcium supplements while breastfeeding?

The amounts of calcium that women need do not change when they are pregnant or nursing. The recommended amount for teen girls age 14 to 18 is 1,300 mg a day. Women who are older than age 18 should get 1,000 mg of calcium a day.

Why is calcium important in breast milk?

Vitamin D and calcium in the human milk is essential for the growth and the prevention of rickets in infants. In this review, we will discuss the physiology and the functions of vitamin D and calcium and the mechanisms of vitamin D and calcium transfer into the human breast milk.

What not to do when breastfeeding?

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

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

How can I get enough calcium without dairy breastfeeding?

Dairy free sources of calcium: If you or your child are allergic or intolerant to milk, other cow’s milk free sources of calcium include: Calcium Fortified dairy free plant drinks or ‘milks’ such as soya milk, rice milk*, oat milk, almond milk, hazelnut milk, hemp milk, coconut milk, pea milk etc**.

What vitamins stop breastfeeding?

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.

Does calcium increase milk supply?

No significant correlations (P > 0.6) were observed between a mother’s calcium intake and her breast-milk volume, calcium concentration, and total calcium output.

What foods decrease milk supply?

Top 5 food / drinks to avoid if you have a low milk supply:

• Carbonated beverages.
• Caffeine – coffee, black tea, green tea, etc.
• Excess Vitamin C & Vitamin B –supplements or drinks with excessive vitamin C Or B (Vitamin Water, Powerade, oranges/orange juice and citrus fruits/juice.)

How can I get calcium without dairy while breastfeeding?

To achieve a sufficient intake it is important that you try to use a calcium enriched cow’s milk substitute (for example soya drink, oat drink, rice drink, nut drink, hemp drink) and include non-dairy sources of calcium in your diet.