Is moringa vita good for breastfeeding mothers?

Moringa Vita: A Potential Ally for Breastfeeding Mothers
In recent years, Moringa oleifera, commonly known as moringa, has gained attention as a superfood with numerous health benefits, particularly for breastfeeding mothers. This plant, often referred to as “malunggay” in the Philippines, is rich in vitamins, minerals, and essential amino acids, making it a popular choice among new mothers seeking to enhance their nutrition and milk supply.
The Galactagogue Effect
Moringa is traditionally used as a galactagogue, a substance that promotes lactation. Studies indicate that it may help increase breast milk volume, although the evidence is somewhat mixed. Some research suggests that moringa supplementation can lead to significant increases in milk production, with one study noting that breastfeeding mothers who consumed moringa flour capsules experienced greater increases in their babies’ weight compared to those taking iron-folic acid supplements . However, it is important to note that many studies on this topic are of poor quality, leading to conflicting data regarding its effectiveness.
Nutritional Benefits
Beyond its potential to boost milk supply, moringa is packed with essential nutrients that can benefit breastfeeding mothers. It is particularly high in iron, which is crucial for combating fatigue—a common issue for new mothers. The plant also contains vitamins A, C, and K, which are important for both maternal health and the development of the infant. Vitamin K, in particular, is vital for new mothers who may experience heavy bleeding postpartum.
Safety and Considerations
Moringa is generally considered safe for breastfeeding mothers and their infants. In controlled studies, no negative health effects were reported among mothers who consumed moringa. This safety profile, combined with its nutritional benefits, makes moringa an appealing option for those looking to enhance their postpartum diet.
Conclusion
While moringa shows promise as a beneficial supplement for breastfeeding mothers, particularly in terms of increasing milk supply and providing essential nutrients, the quality of existing research varies. Mothers interested in incorporating moringa into their diets should consult healthcare professionals to ensure it aligns with their individual health needs and circumstances. As always, a balanced diet and proper hydration remain key components of successful breastfeeding.

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 moringa make my baby gassy?

These have moringa in them, which causes the side effect of gassiness and diarrhea. They also did not increase my milk supply. I switched to a different brand without moringa, and my supply has increased by a lot and it doesn’t cause gas pains to my baby.

What vitamins not to take 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.

Which vitamins increase breast milk?

Vitamin B. Dietary supplementation with vitamin B group, including B1 [47], B2 [47], B6 [45] and B12 [46, 49] was associated with increased levels of these vitamins in breast milk, however, no significant differences were observed for thiamin [48], and B12 [48] in some studies.

Can I take moringa supplements while breastfeeding?

Moringa the super-supplement for new mums
For centuries it has been used to improve nutrition in infants and breastfeeding mothers. One of the most nutrient-dense foods in the world, moringa leaves are rich in 5 essential vitamins & minerals including iron, calcium, vitamins A, E & K.

What pills are good for increasing breast milk supply?

Domperidone is the most effective medicine used to improve breast milk supply. It was developed to treat nausea, vomiting, indigestion and gastric reflux, but has been found to be effective when used to increase milk supply.

Who should not take moringa?

Moringa appears to have few side effects. However, people who are pregnant or taking thyroid, diabetes, or blood pressure medication should speak with their doctor before taking Moringa.

Which supplement is best for breastfeeding mothers?

If you’re breastfeeding, you should consider taking a 10mcg daily vitamin D supplement. If your baby is only having breast milk (no first infant formula top-ups), you should give them a daily vitamin D supplement of 8.5 to 10mcg.

What happens if you take moringa everyday?

To date, studies show that Moringa oleifera may lead to modest reductions in blood sugar and cholesterol. It may also have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects and protect against arsenic toxicity. Moringa leaves are also highly nutritious and should be beneficial for people who are lacking in essential nutrients.

Is moringa safe for babies?

Moringa leaves are very safe for children to consume and are used to supplement nutrition for malnourished children in developing countries. The leaves are also used to enhance the nutrition of pregnant and nursing mothers and benefit their growing babies. Pregnant mothers often complain of fatigue.