Why cant you take milk thistle while breastfeeding?

Understanding the Risks of Milk Thistle During Breastfeeding
Milk thistle, a herbal remedy known for its potential liver-protective properties, has been a topic of interest for many, especially among breastfeeding mothers. While some believe it may enhance milk supply due to its plant estrogens, the safety of milk thistle during lactation remains a contentious issue.
Lack of Safety Data
One of the primary concerns regarding the use of milk thistle while breastfeeding is the absence of comprehensive safety data. According to health experts, there is no substantial information available that confirms the safety of milk thistle for nursing mothers and their infants. This lack of evidence raises significant caution among healthcare providers, as the effects of herbal supplements can vary widely and may not be well understood.
Potential Risks to Infants
While some studies suggest that the components of milk thistle, particularly silymarin, are poorly absorbed when taken orally, leading to a lower likelihood of adverse effects on breastfed infants, the uncertainty surrounding its overall impact cannot be overlooked. The potential for unknown side effects or interactions with other medications is a valid concern. Given that infants have developing systems, any substance that a mother consumes could potentially affect them, even if indirectly.
Traditional Use vs. Modern Evidence
Historically, milk thistle has been used for various medicinal purposes, including its purported benefits for increasing breast milk supply. However, traditional use does not equate to proven safety. The herbal remedy’s active compounds, such as silymarin, are known for their antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, but these benefits do not necessarily translate to safety during breastfeeding.
Conclusion: A Cautious Approach
In light of the current understanding, many health professionals recommend a cautious approach to using milk thistle while breastfeeding. The potential benefits of increased milk supply must be weighed against the risks of unknown effects on both the mother and the infant. As always, it is advisable for nursing mothers to consult with healthcare providers before introducing any new supplements into their regimen, ensuring that both their health and that of their child are prioritized.

Can I take milk thistle while pregnant?

Milk thistle is generally considered safe. But check with you doctor first before taking it. Women who are pregnant or breast feeding should not take this herb. If you are diabetic you should consult your doctor first.

Does milk thistle interfere with birth control?

Milk thistle might increase how fast the body breaks down estrogen pills to get rid of them. Taking milk thistle along with estrogens might decrease the effectiveness of estrogen pills.

Is milk thistle safe for babies?

Stay on the safe side and avoid use. Children: Milk thistle is possibly safe when taken by mouth for up to 9 months in children 1 year of age and older. Allergy to ragweed and related plants: Milk thistle might cause an allergic reaction in people who are sensitive to the Asteraceae/Compositae plant family.

Can I take liver supplements while breastfeeding?

Can I take liver pills while pregnant or breastfeeding? Yes! Liver supplies you with the ultimate nutrition to pass through your breastmilk to your sweet babe.

What supplements should you not take with birth control?

For example, St. John’s wort is often used as a natural way to treat mild depression or sleep problems. However, the herb can interfere with birth control by increasing estrogen breakdown. Flaxseed, saw palmetto, and garlic pills can also interfere with hormonal birth control.

What supplements should I avoid when breastfeeding?

Dietary Supplements and Herbs to Avoid When Breastfeeding

• Answer: Certain herbals, high dose vitamins, and other dietary supplements can be dangerous to breastfed babies through breast milk.
• Aloe latex.
• Ashwagandha.
• Berberine/goldenseal.
• Bilberry.
• Black cohosh.
• Butterbur.
• Dong quai.

Can you take milk thistle while pregnant?

Side effects
Milk thistle is generally considered safe. But check with you doctor first before taking it. Women who are pregnant or breast feeding should not take this herb. If you are diabetic you should consult your doctor first.

Is there a downside to taking milk thistle?

Milk thistle can cause an allergic reaction, including a severe, potentially life-threatening allergic reaction (anaphylaxis).

Can nursing moms take milk thistle?

Milk thistle should not be used by pregnant or breastfeeding women. People with a history of hormone-related cancers, including breast, uterine, and prostate cancer, should not take milk thistle. DO NOT take milk thistle if you are allergic to ragweed, chrysanthemums, marigolds, chamomile, yarrow, or daisies.

What supplements should I avoid while breastfeeding?

Dietary Supplements and Herbs to Avoid When Breastfeeding

• Answer: Certain herbals, high dose vitamins, and other dietary supplements can be dangerous to breastfed babies through breast milk.
• Aloe latex.
• Ashwagandha.
• Berberine/goldenseal.
• Bilberry.
• Black cohosh.
• Butterbur.
• Dong quai.