Is it safe to take magnesium while breastfeeding?

Understanding Magnesium and Breastfeeding
As new mothers navigate the complexities of postpartum health, one common question arises: Is it safe to take magnesium while breastfeeding? The answer, based on current research and expert opinions, is generally affirmative. Magnesium, an essential mineral, plays a crucial role in various bodily functions, and its importance does not diminish during breastfeeding.
Safety of Magnesium Supplements
Most forms of magnesium are considered safe for breastfeeding mothers. Research indicates that when taken in recommended dosages, magnesium supplements do not pose significant risks to nursing infants. In fact, magnesium is vital for both maternal health and the development of the baby. It contributes to the production of breast milk, which contains essential nutrients, including magnesium itself, that support the infant’s immune system and overall growth.
However, there are nuances to consider. Some studies suggest that specific types of magnesium, such as magnesium citrate, may delay the onset of lactation if taken during pregnancy. Fortunately, this concern primarily pertains to the prenatal period, and no special precautions are necessary for breastfeeding mothers.
Recommended Dosages and Forms
Experts recommend that breastfeeding mothers ensure they meet their magnesium needs, which can sometimes be challenging through diet alone. Foods rich in magnesium include leafy greens, nuts, seeds, and whole grains, but supplementation can be beneficial for those who may not get enough from their diet. Dr. Carolyn Dean, a noted expert on magnesium, suggests that nursing mothers consider taking magnesium supplements to support their health and that of their baby.
Conclusion
In summary, taking magnesium while breastfeeding is generally safe and can be beneficial for both mother and child. As long as mothers adhere to the recommended dietary allowances, incorporating magnesium into their postpartum nutrition plan is advisable. This essential mineral not only supports the mother’s health but also contributes to the nutritional quality of breast milk, ensuring that infants receive the necessary nutrients for healthy development. As always, it’s wise for mothers to consult with healthcare providers before starting any new supplement regimen to tailor it to their specific health needs.

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.

Will taking magnesium help my breastfed baby sleep?

Adding magnesium to a body lacking in it, really can help your child sleep. Without sufficient magnesium, the body struggles to regulate cortisol levels, which leads to elevated alertness levels. Highly alert is NOT what we want your child to be at night.

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.

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.

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.

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.

What does magnesium do for postpartum?

Magnesium sulfate can help prevent seizures in women with postpartum preeclampsia who have severe signs and symptoms. Magnesium sulfate is typically taken for 24 hours. After treatment with magnesium sulfate, your health care provider will closely monitor your blood pressure, urination and other symptoms.

Does magnesium help with milk supply?

A woman’s blood calcium levels gradually decrease during this period of time, and for some women the drop in blood calcium causes a drop in milk supply. For women who have this problem, calcium/magnesium supplements may be helpful.

Can too much magnesium affect baby?

In a baby, magnesium toxicity can cause low muscle tone. This is caused by poor muscle control and low bone density. These conditions can put a baby at greater risk for injuries, such as bone fractures, and even death.

How much magnesium is safe 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.