Is it okay to take magnesium while breastfeeding?

Understanding Magnesium and Breastfeeding
As new mothers navigate the complexities of breastfeeding, one common concern is the safety of taking supplements, particularly magnesium. This essential mineral plays a crucial role in various bodily functions, including muscle and nerve function, blood sugar control, and blood pressure regulation. But is it safe to take magnesium while breastfeeding?
Safety of Magnesium During Breastfeeding
The consensus among health professionals is that most forms of magnesium are safe for breastfeeding mothers. Research indicates that magnesium supplementation does not pose significant risks to nursing infants. In fact, magnesium is vital for both mothers and their babies, as it contributes to the development of a robust immune system in newborns through breast milk.
While some studies have noted that certain types of magnesium, such as magnesium citrate, may delay the onset of lactation when taken during pregnancy, this does not appear to carry over into breastfeeding. In general, magnesium is well-tolerated and can be beneficial for mothers, especially in managing stress and promoting relaxation, which can indirectly support milk flow.
Recommended Dosages and Forms
Experts recommend that breastfeeding mothers consider magnesium supplementation, particularly if they are experiencing symptoms of deficiency, such as muscle cramps or fatigue. Dr. Carolyn Dean, a noted expert on magnesium, suggests that nursing mothers should take magnesium in recommended dosages to support their health.
Forms of magnesium that are commonly recommended include magnesium citrate and magnesium glycinate, both of which are easily absorbed by the body. However, it is always advisable for mothers to consult with their healthcare provider before starting any new supplement regimen to ensure it aligns with their individual health needs.
Benefits of Magnesium for Nursing Mothers
Taking magnesium can offer several benefits for breastfeeding mothers. It helps in reducing stress levels, which can be particularly beneficial during the postpartum period. Lower stress levels can lead to a more relaxed state, potentially enhancing milk flow. Additionally, magnesium supports overall health, which is crucial for mothers who are recovering from childbirth and managing the demands of caring for a newborn.
Moreover, magnesium is not only important for the mother but also contributes to the nutritional quality of breast milk. As mothers breastfeed, they pass on essential nutrients, including magnesium, to their infants, aiding in their growth and development.
Conclusion
In summary, taking magnesium while breastfeeding is generally considered safe and can be beneficial for both mothers and their babies. With its role in promoting relaxation and supporting overall health, magnesium supplementation may help mothers navigate the challenges of breastfeeding more effectively. However, as with any supplement, it is essential for mothers to discuss their specific needs with a healthcare professional to ensure they are making informed choices for their health and their baby’s well-being.

How much magnesium should I take while breastfeeding?

Breast-feeding females—340 to 355 mg per day. Children 7 to 10 years of age—170 mg per day. Children 4 to 6 years of age—120 mg per day. Children birth to 3 years of age—40 to 80 mg per day.

What is the best vitamin for breastfeeding mothers?

Vitamin D is made when the skin is exposed to sunlight. Good food sources of vitamin D include fortified low-fat or fat-free milk, fortified orange juice, egg yolks, and salmon. Experts recommend that pregnant and breastfeeding women get 600 international units of vitamin D daily.

Why can’t you take magnesium while breastfeeding?

Oral absorption of magnesium by the infant is poor, so maternal magnesium citrate is not expected to affect the breastfed infant’s serum magnesium. Magnesium citrate supplementation during pregnancy might delay the onset of lactation, but it can be taken during breastfeeding and no special precautions are required.

Is magnesium safe postpartum?

In order to decrease the risk of eclampsia, magnesium sulfate is administered to women with pre-eclampsia with severe features through continuous intravenous (IV) infusion or intramuscular (IM) injections intrapartum, and may be continued postpartum.

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.

Is magnesium calm safe while breastfeeding?

Yes, healthy pregnant and breastfeeding women can safely take Natural Calm magnesium. In fact, magnesium needs will increase during gestation and lactation. Enough magnesium during pregnancy may help with DNA formation and is thought to play a role in preventing complications such as pre-eclampsia.

Can magnesium affect breastfed baby?

Oral absorption of magnesium by the infant is poor, so maternal magnesium hydroxide is not expected to affect the breastfed infant’s serum magnesium. Magnesium hydroxide supplementation during pregnancy might delay the onset of lactation, but it can be taken during breastfeeding and no special precautions are required.

Can magnesium relieve anxiety?

Magnesium may reduce anxiety symptoms by improving sleep quality, calming the nervous system, improving mood, and decreasing muscle tension. Research suggests that magnesium L-threonate and magnesium glycinate may be especially beneficial for improving anxiety.

Can I take magnesium and zinc while breastfeeding?

Can I take magnesium while breastfeeding? Yes! Magnesium also doesn’t cross over into milk very well, so your baby doesn’t get too much magnesium from your supplement (plus, your baby’s digestive system doesn’t absorb it well anyways).

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.