What vitamins decrease milk supply?

Understanding the Impact of Vitamins on Milk Supply
Breastfeeding is a complex process influenced by various factors, including maternal nutrition. While many mothers focus on increasing their milk supply, it’s equally important to understand that certain vitamins and dietary choices can inadvertently decrease it.
Key Vitamins and Their Effects
Research indicates that excessive intake of certain vitamins may negatively impact milk production. For instance, high doses of vitamin A can lead to a decrease in milk supply. This is particularly concerning for breastfeeding mothers who might be taking supplements without professional guidance. The body requires a balanced intake of vitamins, and an overload can disrupt the delicate hormonal balance necessary for lactation.
Moreover, vitamin B6 has been noted in some discussions as potentially influencing milk supply. While it is essential for overall health, excessive amounts may lead to complications that could affect breastfeeding. However, the evidence surrounding this is less definitive, and more research is needed to establish a clear connection.
The Role of Diet
Beyond vitamins, the overall dietary habits of breastfeeding mothers play a crucial role in milk production. Certain foods and herbs, such as peppermint and sage, are known to potentially decrease milk supply. These items can interfere with the hormonal signals that promote lactation. Therefore, mothers should be mindful of their dietary choices, particularly if they are consuming herbal supplements or teas that may contain these ingredients.
The Importance of Balance
It’s essential for breastfeeding mothers to maintain a well-balanced diet rich in essential nutrients. While vitamin supplements are not typically necessary for those who eat a varied diet, the focus should be on obtaining nutrients from whole foods. This approach not only supports milk production but also ensures that both mother and baby receive the necessary vitamins and minerals for optimal health.
In conclusion, while certain vitamins can potentially decrease milk supply, the key lies in moderation and balance. Mothers should consult healthcare professionals before making significant changes to their diet or supplement regimen to ensure they are supporting their breastfeeding journey effectively.

Which vitamin decrease milk supply?

PIP: Vitamin B6 (pyridoxine hydrochloride) is contained in most prenatal and multivitamin preparations. Available research states that pyridoxine blocks lactation and inhibits the secretion of breast milk in nursing mothers by suppressing the normally elevated prolactin hormone levels encountered during puerperium.

What vitamins stop milk production?

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.

Does vitamin B12 decrease milk supply?

There have been anecdotal reports of low milk supply in vitamin B12 deficient mothers, which improved when the B12 deficiency was corrected. Mothers with pernicious anemia are also at higher risk for thyroid problems, which can affect milk supply.

What vitamins stop lactation?

High doses of Vitamin B6 (Pyridoxine) may inhibit the body’s production of plasma prolactin. Prolactin aids in the production of breast milk. At a dose of 200mg three times a day Vitamin B6 (Pyridoxine) may decrease milk production thereby stopping lactation.

What vitamin deficiency causes low milk supply?

Deficiencies in certain key nutrients can also play a role in low milk supply. Many in the United States are low in iron, putting breastfeeding parents at risk for exhaustion and depression. Low iron levels are also a risk factor. Mothers may be low in other important nutrients as well: vitamins D and B12.

How do you reverse low milk supply?

Breastfeeding frequently—especially in the first hours, days, and weeks—is the main way to increase your milk supply. Your body will make milk to meet your baby’s demand.

What decreases milk supply?

Other things that can also lead you to have low milk production include:

• Smoking or drinking.
• Some medicines and herbs.
• Hormonal forms of birth control. This is especially true for birth control that has estrogen.
• Nursing or pumping less often.
• Getting sick.
• Feeling stressed.
• Getting pregnant again.

What shortens your milk supply?

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 does breast milk lack?

vitamin D
Breast milk alone does not provide infants with enough vitamin D. Shortly after birth, most breastfed infants will need an additional source of vitamin D through a supplement.

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.