What kind of magnesium is good for breastfeeding?

Understanding Magnesium for Breastfeeding Mothers
Breastfeeding is a critical period for both mothers and their infants, and ensuring adequate nutrition is paramount. Among the essential nutrients, magnesium plays a significant role in supporting the health of nursing mothers and their babies. However, the type of magnesium supplement one chooses can influence its effectiveness and safety.
The Importance of Magnesium
Magnesium is vital for numerous bodily functions, including muscle and nerve function, blood sugar control, and bone health. For breastfeeding mothers, the recommended daily intake is approximately 300 mg. This mineral is particularly important during this phase due to the increased nutritional demands placed on the body as it produces milk.
Types of Magnesium Supplements
While many forms of magnesium are available, not all are equally beneficial or safe during breastfeeding. Common types include:
– Magnesium Citrate: This form is often recommended for its high bioavailability, meaning it is easily absorbed by the body. However, some studies suggest that magnesium citrate may delay the onset of lactation when taken during pregnancy. Despite this, it is generally considered safe for breastfeeding mothers, with no special precautions required.
– Magnesium Sulfate: Typically used in medical settings, particularly for conditions like pre-eclampsia, magnesium sulfate is administered intravenously. While it has specific applications, its use outside of a clinical setting is less common for breastfeeding mothers.
– Other Forms: Other magnesium supplements, such as magnesium oxide and magnesium glycinate, are also available. These forms can vary in absorption rates and gastrointestinal tolerance. Magnesium glycinate, for instance, is often favored for its gentle effect on the stomach and lower likelihood of causing diarrhea.
Safety and Recommendations
Most forms of magnesium are deemed safe for breastfeeding mothers, and there are no significant adverse reactions reported. However, it is crucial for mothers to consult healthcare providers before starting any supplementation, especially if they have underlying health conditions or are taking other medications.
In terms of dosage, while some sources suggest that breastfeeding mothers may require up to 600 mg of magnesium daily, the general consensus leans towards the standard recommendation of 300 mg. This amount can typically be met through a balanced diet rich in magnesium-containing foods such as leafy greens, nuts, seeds, and whole grains.
Conclusion
In summary, magnesium is an essential nutrient for breastfeeding mothers, supporting both their health and that of their infants. While various forms of magnesium are available, magnesium citrate and magnesium glycinate are often recommended for their safety and efficacy. As always, consulting with a healthcare professional is advisable to tailor supplementation to individual needs and ensure both mother and baby thrive during this crucial time.

What is the downside of magnesium glycinate?

Taking magnesium supplements such as magnesium glycinate can cause side effects, including nausea and abdominal pain. In larger quantities, it can also cause diarrhea and more severe side effects, such as an irregular heartbeat, extreme hypotension, and cardiac arrest.

Who should not take magnesium glycinate?

Caution is advised if you have diabetes, alcohol dependence, liver disease, phenylketonuria (PKU), or any other condition that requires you to limit/avoid these substances in your diet. Ask your doctor or pharmacist about using this product safely. During pregnancy, this product should be used only when clearly needed.

Which is the best form of magnesium to take?

According to Carolyn Dean, MD, RD, ReMag magnesium chloride is the best because it will be completely absorbed, unlike magnesium oxide, which is the most common form on the market and also absorbed the most poorly.

When not to use magnesium citrate?

Who should avoid magnesium citrate? Magnesium citrate may interact with drugs, including specific antibiotics and medications that doctors prescribe to lower calcium concentration in the urine, such as potassium or sodium phosphate. People on low sodium or restricted-sodium diets should also avoid magnesium citrate.

Which magnesium supplement is best for pregnancy and postpartum?

Our Favorites

• Best For Sleep: Thorne Magnesium Bisglycinate.
• Best For Headaches: Nature Made Magnesium Oxide.
• Best Budget-Friendly: NOW Magnesium Glycinate.
• Best Prenatal Vitamin with Magnesium: FullWell Women’s Prenatal Multivitamin.
• Best For Constipation Relief: Pure Encapsulations Magnesium Citrate.

What vitamins should not be taken with magnesium?

Don’t use calcium, zinc, or magnesium supplements at the same time.

Should I take magnesium oxide or citrate?

• Magnesium Oxide : May be suitable for those looking for a more concentrated source of magnesium or for specific digestive issues like constipation.
• Magnesium Citrate : Often recommended for general supplementation due to its better absorption.

Is it better to take magnesium citrate or Magnesium glycinate?

Choose Magnesium Glycinate if you’re having trouble sleeping, need enhanced calm and muscle relaxation, or want to support your mood. Choose Magnesium Citrate if you’re looking to boost your overall levels of Magnesium in your body, or if you’re looking for digestive regularity or cardiovascular support.

What magnesium should I take while breastfeeding?

Breastfeeding mothers need to obtain sufficient amounts of magnesium and fluids. Daily supplementation with Magnesium-Diasporal® 300 mg granulated drink mix, the express1 magnesium, is recommended.

When should you not take magnesium oxide?

Avoid taking this medication within one hour of taking medications that are coated to prevent breakdown in the stomach. Avoid taking this medication within one to two hours of taking tetracycline or quinotone antibiotics. Magnesium supplements taken soon after these medications may interfere with their absorption.