Breastfeeding is an amazing experience, but it can also be tiring, especially for new mothers. As a breastfeeding mom, you need all the energy and nutrients to keep your baby nourished and healthy.
Taking vitamins is a quick and easy way to ensure that your body is getting the necessary nutrients to keep up with the demands of breastfeeding.
But, Can Breastfeeding Moms Take Any Vitamins?
Not all vitamins are safe for breastfeeding moms. It’s important to know which vitamins are safe to consume, and what the recommended dosages are. Here are some vitamins that are safe for breastfeeding moms:.
Vitamin D
Vitamin D is an essential vitamin that helps your body absorb calcium. It’s important for the growth and development of your baby’s bones and teeth.
Breastfeeding moms who live in areas with limited sunlight or darker skin tones are at a higher risk of deficiency, which is why it’s important to take a Vitamin D supplement. The recommended dose is 600-800 IU per day. Talk to your doctor before taking any supplements.
Vitamin B Complex
Vitamin B Complex includes a group of eight essential vitamins that play a vital role in maintaining good health. These vitamins help with cell growth, energy levels, and brain function.
Taking a Vitamin B Complex supplement can help breastfeeding moms maintain their energy levels, which can often be depleted during breastfeeding. The recommended dose is 2.8-20 mg per day.
Vitamin C
Vitamin C is an essential vitamin that helps with the absorption of iron, which is important for both mom and baby. It also helps boost the immune system, which can help protect against infections.
The recommended dose is 85 mg per day, and you can get this through a supplement or by eating foods high in vitamin C such as oranges and strawberries.
Folic Acid
Folic acid is essential for the development of the neural tube in a developing baby, which is why it’s recommended that all women take folic acid before and during pregnancy.
Breastfeeding moms should also continue taking folic acid to ensure that their baby is getting enough of this essential nutrient. The recommended dose is 500-600 mcg per day.
Iron
Iron is an important nutrient for both mom and baby. It helps with the production of blood cells and the transportation of oxygen throughout the body.
Breastfeeding moms need to ensure that they are getting enough iron, as breastfeeding can deplete the body’s iron stores. The recommended dose is 9-27 mg per day.
Calcium
Calcium is essential for the growth and development of a baby’s bones and teeth. It’s important that breastfeeding moms get enough calcium to ensure that their baby is getting what they need. The recommended dose is 1000-1200 mg per day.
Zinc
Zinc is an important nutrient that helps with cell growth and repair. Breastfeeding moms need to ensure that they are getting enough zinc to help with the growth and development of their baby. The recommended dose is 8-13 mg per day.
Omega-3 Fatty Acids
Omega-3 fatty acids are essential for the development of a baby’s brain and eyesight. Breastfeeding moms need to ensure that they are getting enough omega-3 fatty acids to help with the growth and development of their baby.
The recommended dose is 200-300 mg per day.
Probiotics
Probiotics are good bacteria that can help improve digestion and boost the immune system. They can also help prevent infections such as thrush, which can be common during breastfeeding. Taking a probiotic supplement can be helpful for both mom and baby.
The recommended dose varies depending on the supplement, so make sure to talk to your doctor before taking any probiotics.
Conclusion
As a breastfeeding mom, it’s important to take care of your body and ensure that you are getting the necessary nutrients to keep up with the demands of breastfeeding.
While it’s important to eat a healthy and balanced diet, taking vitamins can help fill any nutritional gaps that you might have. Make sure to talk to your doctor before taking any supplements, and always follow the recommended dosages.