Is poppy seed safe during breastfeeding?

The Safety of Poppy Seeds During Breastfeeding
As new mothers navigate the complexities of breastfeeding, dietary choices often come under scrutiny. One common question that arises is whether poppy seeds are safe to consume during this period. The answer, while nuanced, generally leans towards reassurance.
Poppy Seeds and Their Composition
Poppy seeds, derived from the opium poppy, are commonly used in various culinary dishes, from bagels to salad dressings. They are known for their nutty flavor and nutritional benefits, including healthy fats, fiber, and essential minerals. However, they also contain trace amounts of opiates, which can raise concerns for breastfeeding mothers.
Safety in Moderation
Research indicates that consuming poppy seeds in typical culinary amounts—such as those found in baked goods or sprinkled on salads—is considered safe for breastfeeding mothers. For instance, a snippet from Baby Facts clarifies that while it is safe to consume foods containing poppy seeds, concentrated forms, such as supplements, are not recommended due to a lack of proven safety for nursing mothers.
Moreover, a source from AccessibleGardens reassures that small amounts of poppy seeds have been shown to be safe during breastfeeding, despite their association with opium. This is echoed by other sources, which emphasize that moderate consumption does not pose significant risks to either the mother or the infant.
Potential Risks and Considerations
While the general consensus supports the safety of poppy seeds in moderation, there are a few caveats. One notable concern is the potential for poppy seeds to cause a positive drug test result due to their opiate content. Studies have shown that even small servings can lead to detectable levels of codeine in urine, which could be problematic in certain situations. Therefore, breastfeeding mothers should be mindful of their consumption, especially if they are subject to drug testing.
Additionally, while poppy seeds may enhance breast milk production and flavor, excessive intake should be avoided. It’s essential for mothers to maintain a balanced diet and consult healthcare providers if they have specific concerns about their dietary choices.
Conclusion
In summary, poppy seeds can be safely included in the diets of breastfeeding mothers when consumed in moderation. They offer nutritional benefits and can enhance the flavor of various dishes. However, awareness of their opiate content and the potential for drug testing implications is crucial. As always, when in doubt, consulting with a healthcare professional can provide personalized guidance tailored to individual circumstances.

Is nutmeg safe while breastfeeding?

Anticholinergics may reduce lactation. [1,2] In vitro studies found that nutmeg may have antiprogesterone activity,[3] which also theoretically could affect lactation. Nutmeg and mace in amounts higher than those found in foods as a flavoring should be avoided during breastfeeding.

When should I stop eating poppy seeds during pregnancy?

You probably don’t have to shelve them for the entire nine months of pregnancy, but you might want to avoid foods that contain poppy seeds before you take a drug test or if you’re close to delivering, says Layan Alrahmani, M.D., a board-certified ob-gyn and member of the BabyCenter Medical Advisory Board.

Are poppy seeds safe for babies?

Poppy seeds may be introduced into meals as soon as baby is ready to start solids, which is generally around 6 months of age. Just make sure that the poppy seeds are “food grade” and sold from food or grocery retailers you recognize. Unwashed, non-food grade poppy seeds carry a high risk of opiate exposure.

How long will poppy seeds stay in your system?

Research shows that morphine and codeine can sometimes be detected in the urine up to 48 hours after ingestion of poppy seeds from some pastries, such as bagels, muffins, and cakes (see reference one for a free article on this topic).

Can we add poppy seeds to milk?

They can be consumed as tea or mixed with warm milk for a good night’s sleep. Bone Health: Rich in copper and calcium, poppy seeds support bone health. The manganese in the seeds aids collagen production, protecting bones from damage.

Can you eat poppy seeds while breastfeeding?

Poppy seeds come from the poppy plant and are often used in foods such as bagels, pastries, cakes, and salad dressings. The seeds are washed and processed before use and eating small amounts now and then as part of a food dish or baked item is not known to be a risk during pregnancy or breastfeeding.

Do poppy seeds affect breast milk?

Poppy seeds come from the poppy plant and are often used in foods such as bagels, pastries, cakes, and salad dressings. The seeds are washed and processed before use and eating small amounts now and then as part of a food dish or baked item is not known to be a risk during pregnancy or breastfeeding.

What are the benefits of poppy seeds in milk?

The zinc present in poppy seeds is known to maintain the proper functioning of the thyroid glands. Poppy seeds are also a good source of healthy fat and protein, which help in the development of muscles. If consumed daily with milk, one can see a tremendous result in weight gain.

Why avoid cinnamon while breastfeeding?

Coumarin, an ingredient in some cinnamon products, can cause liver problems, but the amount you’d get is so small that it probably won’t be a problem. Given the lack of evidence about its safety, children, pregnant women, and women who are breastfeeding should avoid cinnamon as a treatment.

Can I have poppy seed baby in pregnancy?

Four weeks
Your baby, now officially an embryo, is about the size of a poppy seed. Find out more about your baby’s development this week. Watch how your baby develops in our Inside Pregnancy: weeks 1-9 video.