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Is it safe to take Lactaid pills while pregnant?

Understanding Lactaid Use During Pregnancy
As pregnancy brings about numerous dietary considerations, many expectant mothers wonder about the safety of various supplements and medications. One common concern is whether it is safe to take Lactaid pills, which are designed to aid in the digestion of lactose for those who are lactose intolerant.
Safety Profile of Lactaid Pills
Lactaid pills contain lactase, an enzyme that helps break down lactose, the sugar found in milk and dairy products. According to the Lactaid brand, their products are considered safe for daily use, including during pregnancy. While the FDA has not assigned an official pregnancy-safety rating to lactase enzymes, the consensus among various sources is that Lactaid is safe for pregnant women.
The American Pregnancy Association also supports this view, indicating that managing lactose intolerance during pregnancy is possible without compromising nutritional intake. This is particularly important as pregnant women need to ensure they receive adequate calcium and other nutrients typically found in dairy products.
Expert Opinions and User Experiences
Many users on platforms like BabyCenter have shared their experiences, noting that Lactaid products are well-tolerated and pose no significant risks during pregnancy. They emphasize that the primary ingredient—lactase—is simply an enzyme that aids digestion, making it a safe option for those who struggle with lactose intolerance.
Moreover, Drugs.com highlights that lactase has an excellent safety profile and can be used not only during pregnancy but also while breastfeeding. This reassurance from both medical sources and user testimonials provides a strong case for the safety of Lactaid pills during this critical time.
Conclusion
In summary, Lactaid pills are generally regarded as safe for pregnant women who are lactose intolerant. They offer a practical solution for managing dietary needs without sacrificing essential nutrients. However, as with any supplement or medication during pregnancy, it is always advisable for individuals to consult with their healthcare provider to ensure that their specific health circumstances are taken into account.

Can Lactaid mess up your stomach?

Since LACTAID® products are real dairy, without the lactose, you shouldn’t experience any side effects. If you continue to experience symptoms like diarrhea, bloating, gas, or stomach upset, you should contact your doctor, as you may have another condition.

What gas relief pills are safe during pregnancy?

Benjamin assures that simethicone, the active ingredient in Gas-X and other gas relievers—is generally safe to take during pregnancy (and even when breastfeeding) to relieve gas pain in pregnancy. In fact, simethicone is the same active ingredient in many infant gas relief medications, like Mylicon.

Will lactose intolerance affect baby?

Babies with lactose intolerance cannot digest lactose properly and it remains indigestible in the intestine. The build up of lactose attracts water which produces watery faeces (poo) causing diarrhoea. Very young babies often are not yet producing enough of the enzyme (lactase) which helps to digest lactose.

Who should not take LACTAID pills?

They need to know if you have any of these conditions:

  • Phenylketonuria.
  • An unusual or allergic reaction to lactase, other medications, foods, dyes, or preservatives.
  • Pregnant or trying to become pregnant.
  • Breast-feeding.

Is lactose free safe for pregnancy?

Your digestive system changes during pregnancy as a result of hormones. An increase in the hormone progesterone may cause a slowing down of the digestive system, resulting in the issues mentioned above. Lactose-free dairy can be incorporated into the diet to help alleviate some of these issues.

Can you take LACTAID pills while pregnant?

A: Generally acceptable. Controlled studies in pregnant women show no evidence of fetal risk.

What precautions should be taken when using Lactaid?

Before taking this medicine
This product may contain phenylalanine and could be harmful if you have phenylketonuria (PKU). Ask a doctor, pharmacist, or other healthcare provider if it is safe for you to use this product if you have other medical conditions. Do not give Lactaid to a child younger than 4 years old.

What is the major concern for a lactose intolerant woman who is pregnant?

You may also feel nauseous or begin cramping. Although lactose intolerance is fairly common and easily managed by adjusting your diet, it is imperative that you supplement your diet with other foods that will supply you with the nutrients you and your baby need.

How much LACTAID is safe?

Original Strength: Swallow three caplets with first bite of dairy foods to help prevent symptoms. Extra Strength: Swallow two caplets with first bite of dairy foods to help prevent symptoms. Ultra Caplets: Take one caplet with first bite of dairy foods to help prevent symptoms. Maximum Dose: Two caplets at a time.

What happens if a pregnant woman is lactose intolerant?

What are the signs of lactose intolerance during pregnancy? The most common signs of lactose intolerance are abdominal pain, bloating, cramping and gas after ingesting dairy products.

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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