What supplements can I take for anxiety while breastfeeding?

Supplements for Anxiety While Breastfeeding
Navigating anxiety during the postpartum period can be particularly challenging for breastfeeding mothers. While many seek natural remedies to alleviate their symptoms, it’s crucial to approach supplementation with caution, considering both the mother’s health and the safety of the breastfeeding infant.
Understanding Postpartum Anxiety
Postpartum anxiety can manifest in various ways, including excessive worry, restlessness, and difficulty concentrating. It is essential to recognize that anxiety can stem from multiple factors, including hormonal changes, sleep deprivation, and the stress of new motherhood. Therefore, addressing these symptoms holistically is vital.
Safe Supplements to Consider
1. Omega-3 Fatty Acids: Research suggests that omega-3 fatty acids, particularly DHA, may help reduce anxiety symptoms. These essential fats are found in fish oil and can support brain health. They are generally considered safe for breastfeeding mothers, as they can also benefit the infant’s development.
2. Magnesium: This mineral plays a role in regulating mood and can help alleviate anxiety. Magnesium supplements are often recommended for their calming effects and are typically safe for breastfeeding mothers.
3. B Vitamins: B vitamins, particularly B6 and B12, are crucial for brain health and can help manage stress and anxiety levels. They are generally safe to take while breastfeeding and can support both the mother’s and baby’s health.
4. L-Theanine: Found in green tea, L-theanine is an amino acid that promotes relaxation without sedation. It may help reduce anxiety and improve focus, making it a suitable option for breastfeeding mothers.
5. Herbal Teas: Certain herbal teas, such as chamomile and lemon balm, are known for their calming properties. While many herbal remedies should be approached with caution, these teas are generally considered safe in moderation during breastfeeding.
Supplements to Avoid
While some supplements can be beneficial, others may pose risks. For instance, certain herbal supplements, such as St. John’s Wort, are not recommended during breastfeeding due to potential adverse effects on the infant. Additionally, supplements like valerian root and kava should be avoided, as they can have sedative effects that may not be safe for nursing mothers.
Consulting Healthcare Providers
Before starting any supplement regimen, it is crucial for breastfeeding mothers to consult with healthcare providers. They can provide personalized advice based on individual health needs and ensure that any supplements taken do not interfere with breastfeeding or the infant’s health.
Conclusion
Managing anxiety while breastfeeding requires a careful balance of self-care and professional guidance. While supplements like omega-3 fatty acids, magnesium, and B vitamins can offer support, it is essential to avoid those that may pose risks. By working closely with healthcare professionals, mothers can find effective strategies to manage anxiety while ensuring the well-being of both themselves and their babies.

How to stop breastfeeding anxiety?

What non-medication strategies are helpful in decreasing postpartum anxiety?

1. Cuddle your baby (a lot). This releases oxytocin, which can lower anxiety levels.
2. Try to maximize sleep.
3. Spend time with other mothers.
4. Increase your physical activity.
5. Wean gradually.
6. Ask for help.

What medication is best for postpartum anxiety?

SSRIs (selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors) are the most widely used and most researched medication for postpartum anxiety and postpartum depression.

Can I take ashwagandha for anxiety while breastfeeding?

Ashwagandha is effective for both PPD and anxiety, and can also be used to increase milk supply and is considered safe while breastfeeding (“Withania – Drugs and Lactation Database (LactMed)”). Ashwagandha has little to no toxicity, though it can create digestive upset if used in high concentrations.

What is a natural anti anxiety while breastfeeding?

Studies show that passion flower and oat are as effective as prescription anxiety medications. Plus, oats can help boost the metabolism of fats and increase milk production for nursing mamas. Melissa (Lemon Balm). Melissa, a member of the mint family, helps ease anxiety and depression and is an effective antiviral.

Can my anxiety affect my breastfed baby?

Stress May Affect Cortisol Levels
As your stress level rises, the level of cortisol in your breast milk also increases. When your baby nurses, they may consume some of this extra cortisol.

How long until ashwagandha helps with anxiety?

Are you curious about when ashwagandha starts helping with anxiety? Most people start seeing results within two to four weeks of regular intake. Yet, for some, the impact might be sooner, maybe within a week. Meanwhile, others might need patience for up to six weeks to spot changes.

What vitamins help with postpartum anxiety?

By correcting these deficiencies postnatal depression could be prevented in some women. Specific examples of dietary supplements aimed at preventing postnatal depression include: omega‐3 fatty acids, iron, folate, s‐adenosyl‐L‐methionine, cobalamin, pyridoxine, riboflavin, vitamin D and calcium.

Why does breastfeeding trigger my anxiety?

Dysphoric milk ejection reflex, or D-MER, is a condition that affects people who breastfeed (chest feed) or pump milk. It causes sudden and intense negative emotions just before you “let down” or release milk. It’s quick and lasts just a minute or two.

What can you take for anxiety when breastfeeding?

Safe medication in breastfeeding
They include, in no particular order: SSRI antidepressants e.g. sertraline, citalopram, fluoxetine, paroxetine all have anti- anxiety activity. They take 4 to 6 weeks to exert full benefit. Tri-cyclic antidepressants e.g. amitriptyline, imipramine.

What medication is used for anxiety in nursing?

Benzodiazepines most commonly used to treat anxiety disorders are clonazepam (Rivotril)*, alprazolam (Xanax) and lorazepam (Ativan). Also used are bromazepam (Lectopam), oxazepam (Serax), chlordiazepoxide (once marketed as Librium), clorazepate (Tranxene) and diazepam (Valium).