What supplements should I avoid when breastfeeding?

Understanding Supplements to Avoid While Breastfeeding
Breastfeeding is a critical period for both mother and child, and while many mothers focus on their diet, the use of supplements can also raise concerns. Certain supplements can pose risks to breastfeeding infants, and it’s essential for nursing mothers to be informed about what to avoid.
Herbal Supplements and Medicinal Herbs
One of the primary categories of supplements to steer clear of during breastfeeding is herbal supplements. Many herbal products lack sufficient research regarding their safety and efficacy for nursing mothers and their babies. For instance, while some herbs are touted for their health benefits, they can have unpredictable effects on breast milk and, consequently, on the infant. It is generally advised that mothers avoid these unless specifically recommended by a healthcare provider.
Fat-Soluble Vitamins
Another significant concern involves fat-soluble vitamins, such as vitamins A and E. These vitamins can accumulate in breast milk, and excessive intake may lead to toxicity in infants. For example, high levels of vitamin A can be particularly harmful, potentially leading to developmental issues in babies. Therefore, while it’s important for breastfeeding mothers to maintain adequate nutrition, they should be cautious about supplementing with these vitamins without medical guidance.
Soy and Flaxseed
Certain food-based supplements, like soy and flaxseed, are also recommended to be avoided. These substances can affect hormone levels and may have estrogen-like effects, which could be concerning during breastfeeding. The impact of these supplements on a nursing infant is not well understood, making it prudent to avoid them unless advised otherwise by a healthcare professional.
Collagen Supplements
Collagen supplements, popular for their purported benefits to skin and joint health, are another area of caution. There is insufficient research on their safety during breastfeeding, and it is generally recommended to wait until after weaning to resume their use. This lack of clarity underscores the importance of erring on the side of caution when it comes to supplementing during this sensitive time.
Conclusion
In summary, while breastfeeding mothers may feel the need to enhance their nutrition through supplements, it is crucial to approach this with caution. Herbal supplements, fat-soluble vitamins, soy, flaxseed, and collagen supplements are among those that should be avoided unless specifically recommended by a healthcare provider. The health and safety of both mother and child should always come first, and consulting with a healthcare professional can help navigate the complexities of nutrition during breastfeeding.

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 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.

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.

What medications dry up milk supply?

What medications do you think have been found to decrease milk supply? Choose 1 or more:

• Epinephrine.
• Labetolol.
• High dose steroids (such as Solumedrol)
• Strong antihistamines such as diphenhydramine (Benadryl)
• Testosterone.
• Estrogen.
• Methylergonovine (Methergine)
• Pseudoephedrine (Sudafed)

Why avoid cinnamon while breastfeeding?

Coumarin, an ingredient in some cinnamon products, can cause liver problems, but the amount you’d get is so small that it probably won’t be a problem. Given the lack of evidence about its safety, children, pregnant women, and women who are breastfeeding should avoid cinnamon as a treatment.

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.

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 vitamins should not be taken 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.

Which fruit is not good for feeding a mother?

Strawberries. Kiwifruit. Pineapple. The gassy veggies like onion, cabbage, garlic, cauliflower, broccoli, cucumbers, and peppers.

What vitamins stop breastfeeding?

Use Vitamin B.
Research shows that — in women who have not yet started producing breast milk — vitamin B can limit lactation. Always consult with your physician before trying to reduce or prevent your milk production.