Home » Blog » Breastfeeding » Is there CBD in breast milk naturally?

Is there CBD in breast milk naturally?

The Presence of Cannabinoids in Breast Milk
The question of whether cannabidiol (CBD) is naturally present in breast milk is a complex one, intertwining the realms of biology, health, and the ongoing discourse surrounding cannabis use. Recent research indicates that while CBD itself may not be a natural component of breast milk, cannabinoids, which are similar in nature, are indeed present.
Cannabinoids and Endocannabinoids
Human breast milk contains naturally occurring cannabinoids known as endocannabinoids. These compounds, such as 2-arachidonoylglycerol (2-AG) and anandamide, play crucial roles in various physiological processes, including appetite regulation and immune response. Notably, levels of 2-AG in breast milk are significantly higher than those of anandamide, suggesting a complex interaction with the developing infant’s endocannabinoid system.
CBD and Its Relation to Breast Milk
While CBD itself is not a naturally occurring substance in breast milk, it can be detected in the milk of mothers who consume cannabis products. Studies have shown that traces of CBD can be found in breast milk, particularly in mothers who use cannabis during breastfeeding. This raises important considerations regarding the safety and implications of CBD use for nursing mothers.
Health Guidelines and Recommendations
Health authorities, including the FDA, strongly advise against the use of CBD and other cannabis products during pregnancy and breastfeeding. The rationale behind this caution stems from the potential risks associated with the unknown effects of these substances on both the mother and the infant. The presence of cannabinoids in breast milk, while natural, does not equate to safety when it comes to external sources like CBD oil or other cannabis-derived products.
Conclusion
In summary, while cannabinoids are naturally present in breast milk, the implications of introducing external cannabinoids like CBD into a nursing mother’s regimen remain uncertain. The existing evidence suggests that while the body produces its own cannabinoids, the introduction of CBD through supplements or oils could pose risks that are not yet fully understood. Therefore, nursing mothers are encouraged to consult healthcare professionals before considering the use of CBD products.

How can I reduce my baby’s exposure to drugs in breast milk?

Timing of feeds

  1. give the mother’s dose immediately after the infant has been fed with the aim of avoiding feeding at peak milk concentrations; or.
  2. withhold breastfeeding until after a suitable washout period of the medicine. This is most appropriate for short courses of a hazardous medicine.

Is CBD found in breast milk?

The cannabinoids THC and CBD are present and accumulate in breast milk after maternal cannabis use, whether by inhalation or edible ingestion. They appear rapidly after exposure and may remain present for at least 1–2 days.

What drugs show up in breast milk?

Most drug molecules, including alcohol, nicotine and caffeine, are small enough to enter milk. Exceptions are drugs with high molecular weights such as heparins and insulin.

Can you drink trip CBD while breastfeeding?

Women who are pregnant or breastfeeding are advised not to use CBD oil and other CBD products for that period of time.

What substances are passed through breast milk?

During breastfeeding, it is important for a woman not to consume alcohol, smoke, or take drugs. These substances are known to pass through the breast milk. This information can help mothers to understand better about the consequences of smoking, using drugs, and drinking alcohol during pregnancy.

How long after drinking can I breastfeed?

Breastfeeding mothers who have consumed alcohol can wait 2 hours (per drink) before breastfeeding. This time will allow alcohol levels in her breast milk to go down. If the mother cannot wait to feed her infant, she can feed milk that was previously expressed when the mother was not drinking.

What not to do while breastfeeding?

Don’t drink alcohol when you’re breastfeeding. Alcohol includes beer, wine, wine coolers and liquor. If you do drink alcohol, don’t have more than two drinks a week. Wait at least 2 hours after each drink before you breastfeed.

How long does it take for CBD to leave breast milk?

The duration of CBD’s presence in breast milk varies among individuals and depends on the dosage, frequency of use, and metabolism. Studies suggest that the half-life of CBD in breast milk is around 18 to 32 hours. This means that it may take several days for CBD to clear the system entirely.

How much CBD is in breast milk?

Median (IQR) cannabidiol (CBD) concentrations were: plasma 0.6 ng/ml (0.5-6.4) and breast milk 1.2 ng/ml (0.5-17.0). Median (IQR) THC M/P: 7.0 (1.8-34.6) and CBD M/P: 2.6. Median breast milk THC concentration increased from visit 1 to visit 2 by 30.2 ng/ml (95% CI 3.05-69.3 ng/ml).

What are the side effects of breastfeeding while pregnant?

What are the risks of breastfeeding while pregnant?

  • sore nipples.
  • nausea (may be triggered during letdown)
  • fatigue.
  • feelings of being overwhelmed.
  • a decreased milk supply.
  • changes to your breast milk — the color, consistency, and taste may change.
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.

Leave a Comment