Page Content
- Is it safe to take adaptogens while breastfeeding?
- What are the negatives of rhodiola?
- What supplements should I avoid while breastfeeding?
- What does rhodiola do to hormones?
- Can rhodiola cause weight gain?
- Why should I avoid ashwagandha while breastfeeding?
- Who should avoid rhodiola?
- Is rhodiola safe for breastfeeding?
- Can rhodiola raise cortisol?
- Why no ashwagandha while breastfeeding?
Understanding Rhodiola and Its Safety During Breastfeeding
Rhodiola, particularly Rhodiola rosea, is an adaptogenic herb known for its potential benefits in enhancing physical and mental performance, alleviating stress, and improving mood. However, when it comes to its use during breastfeeding, the consensus among health professionals leans towards caution.
Lack of Research on Safety
Currently, there is insufficient reliable information to definitively determine whether rhodiola is safe for breastfeeding mothers. The available studies do not provide conclusive evidence regarding its effects on lactation or the nursing infant. This uncertainty is compounded by the fact that many herbal supplements, including rhodiola, have not undergone rigorous testing for safety in pregnant or breastfeeding populations.
Recommendations Against Use
Health authorities generally recommend that breastfeeding women avoid rhodiola. The Merck Manual explicitly states that rhodiola is not recommended for pregnant or breastfeeding women due to the potential risks of side effects and drug interactions. Additionally, the National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health (NCCIH) emphasizes the need for further research to ascertain the safety of rhodiola during lactation.
Potential Risks
One of the concerns surrounding rhodiola is its immunomodulatory properties, which could potentially stimulate the immune system. This is particularly relevant for breastfeeding mothers, as any changes in immune function could affect both the mother and the infant. Moreover, the lack of comprehensive studies means that the long-term effects on infants who are exposed to rhodiola through breast milk remain unknown.
Conclusion
In summary, while rhodiola may offer various health benefits, its use during breastfeeding is not well-supported by scientific evidence. Given the potential risks and the absence of clear safety data, it is advisable for nursing mothers to err on the side of caution and avoid using rhodiola. Consulting with a healthcare provider is essential for any mother considering herbal supplements during this critical period.
Is it safe to take adaptogens while breastfeeding?
Adaptogens typically state on the packaging that they are not for people who are pregnant or breastfeeding as they haven’t been sufficiently tested.
What are the negatives of rhodiola?
Possible side effects include dizziness and either dry mouth or excessive saliva production. Little is known about whether it’s safe to use rhodiola during pregnancy or while 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.
What does rhodiola do to hormones?
Rhodiola rosea may help modulate the stress response by reducing the production of stress hormones like cortisol and adrenaline, helping to restore balance in the body.
Can rhodiola cause weight gain?
A: Rhodiola supports weight loss by boosting metabolism, reducing stress-related cortisol that can contribute to weight gain, and affecting appetite control. However, it should be used in conjunction with a healthy diet and regular exercise for the best results.
Why should I avoid ashwagandha while breastfeeding?
Although it is rare, there have been a number of cases that link liver injury to ashwagandha supplements. Ashwagandha should be avoided during pregnancy and should not be used while breastfeeding.
Who should avoid rhodiola?
Safety Considerations: Rhodiola rosea should not be used if you have bipolar disorder, are pregnant or breastfeeding, and are under 18. Since rhodiola may increase jitteriness, the dose of rhodiola may need to be decreased if you have anxiety.
Is rhodiola safe for breastfeeding?
Rhodiola is not generally recommended because the claimed beneficial effects on health have not been confirmed in high-quality studies in people and do not outweigh the risk of side effects or drug interactions. Pregnant and breastfeeding women, children, and people with autoimmune disorders should avoid rhodiola.
Can rhodiola raise cortisol?
Rhodiola is an herb grown in the cold, mountainous regions of Europe and Asia. The roots are known as adaptogens, which means they help your body adapt to stress when they’re consumed. Rhodiola also relieves anxiety, suppresses cortisol and provides overall resistance to general stressors.
Why no ashwagandha while breastfeeding?
Although it is rare, there have been a number of cases that link liver injury to ashwagandha supplements. Ashwagandha should be avoided during pregnancy and should not be used while breastfeeding.