What supplements are not safe during breastfeeding?

Understanding Unsafe Supplements During Breastfeeding
Breastfeeding is a critical period for both mothers and infants, and while many women focus on maintaining a healthy diet, the use of supplements can raise concerns. Certain supplements may pose risks to nursing infants, making it essential for breastfeeding mothers to be informed about what to avoid.
Key Supplements to Avoid
1. Medicinal Herbs: Many herbal supplements lack sufficient research regarding their safety during breastfeeding. For instance, while some herbs may be safe in tea form, concentrated supplements can be problematic. Raspberry leaf, commonly used in pregnancy, is one such example; while the tea is generally considered safe, the supplement form should be avoided due to limited safety data.
2. Fat-Soluble Vitamins: Vitamins A and E are fat-soluble, meaning they can accumulate in the body and potentially concentrate in breast milk. Excessive intake of these vitamins can be harmful to a breastfeeding baby. Therefore, it is crucial for mothers to monitor their intake and avoid high-dose supplements.
3. Soy and Flaxseed: These supplements are often recommended for their health benefits, but they can interfere with hormonal balance and may not be safe during breastfeeding. Their effects on infants are not well-studied, leading to recommendations against their use.
4. Collagen Supplements: There is insufficient research on the safety of collagen supplements during breastfeeding. Given the lack of data, it is advisable for mothers to wait until they have weaned their baby before resuming these supplements.
5. Melatonin: Often used as a sleep aid, melatonin’s effects on breastfeeding infants are not well understood. Its use is generally discouraged during this period due to potential risks.
General Recommendations
While some vitamins and minerals are beneficial during breastfeeding, such as vitamin D, which is recommended for all breastfeeding women, the safety of other supplements should be evaluated on a case-by-case basis. It is always best for mothers to consult healthcare providers before starting any new supplement regimen.
In conclusion, breastfeeding mothers should exercise caution with supplements, particularly those that are herbal or fat-soluble. Prioritizing a balanced diet and consulting with healthcare professionals can help ensure both mother and baby remain healthy during this crucial time.

What vitamins should I avoid 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.

What negatively affects breast milk?

Stress is the No. 1 killer of breastmilk supply, especially in the first few weeks after delivery. Between lack of sleep and adjusting to the baby’s schedule, rising levels of certain hormones such as cortisol can dramatically reduce your milk supply.

What vitamins stop breastfeeding?

If you haven’t nursed your infant yet, high doses of vitamins B1 (thiamine), B6 (pyridoxine), and B12 (cobalamin) may work to suppress lactation. One older study from the 1970s suggested that high doses B6, B1, and B12 suppressed lactation for 96% of the participants, with no unpleasant side effects.

What are unsafe drugs in breastfeeding?

ANSWER: Only a few drugs pose a clinically significant risk to breastfed babies. In general, antineoplastics, drugs of abuse, some anticonvulsants, ergot alkaloids, and radiopharmaceuticals should not be taken, and levels of amiodarone, cyclosporine, and lithium should be monitored.

What is not recommended for breastfeeding?

Medical Contraindications for Breastfeeding
There are a few medical contraindications to breastfeeding, and these include: An infant who has the metabolic disorder of classic galactosemia (galactose 1-phosphate uridyltransferase deficiency). A mother living with human T-cell lymphotrophic virus type I or type II.

What not to take while breastfeeding?

Common medicines that are not recommended when you’re breastfeeding include:

• codeine phosphate.
• decongestants that come as tablets, liquids or powders that you swallow.
• some nasal decongestants that come as nose sprays or drops – check with a GP or pharmacist before using them.
• aspirin for pain relief.

What are the don’ts of breastfeeding?

Don’ts

• Don’t give up on breastfeeding your newborn no matter how hard you find it.
• Do not ignore your pain if you are experiencing sore nipples.
• Don’t eat any painkillers or medicine unless your doctor prescribes it.
• Don’t start breastfeeding when you are feeling angry or depressed.

Why avoid strawberries while breastfeeding?

A quart or more of orange juice or a diet heavy in seasonal fruits such as strawberries, melons or cherries have been associated with diarrhea and colicky symptoms in some infants. Foods containing many preservatives, additives or dyes have been associated with signs of discomfort in some babies.

What you Cannot do while breastfeeding?

What foods and drinks should I limit or avoid while breastfeeding?

• Alcohol. There’s no level of alcohol in breast milk that’s considered safe for a baby.
• Caffeine. Avoid drinking more than 2 to 3 cups (16 to 24 ounces) of caffeinated drinks a day.
• Fish. Seafood can be a great source of protein and omega-3 fatty acids.

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.