4 Beneficial Supplements for Moms While Breastfeeding
After giving
birth to your bundle of joy, your main goal is to keep him or her healthy. Many
of us know that breast milk is not only vital for the growth of a baby but also
for his or her immunity. Breast milk is the primary source of nutrition for the
baby, and, therefore, the quality of milk is essential. Luckily, most
mothers are not in dire need of supplements to ensure their breast milk has all
the nutrients their child needs. Studies have shown that if you take the
recommended intakes in your food, you do not necessarily need a routine
supplement of vitamins and minerals. However, if you do not meet the daily
recommended intakes or you want to increase your milk production, there are
supplements you can take to improve your health and that of your baby. We will delve
into 4 beneficial supplements for breastfeeding mothers.
#1. Omega 3s and DHA
Most mothers who
have done any research prior to starting to breastfeed have come across Omega 3
fatty acids. DHA is actually one of eleven essential fats but one of the most
important for brain development in your baby and provides a plethora of
additional health benefits including. As mentioned above, there are instances
where daily intake can be reached through normal diet but more often than not,
mothers should consider adding a prenatal DHA to their routine.
• Healthy brain development
• Improved vision in babies
• Contributes to better heart health
Source - WebMD
#2. Vitamin B Complex
Vitamin B
complex consists of 8 B vitamins, including:
- B-1 (also
known as thiamine),
- B-2 (also
known as riboflavin),
- B-3 (also
known as niacin),
- B-5 (also
known as pantothenic acid),
- B-6 (also
known as pyridoxine),
- B-7 (also
known as biotin),
- B-9 (also
known as folic acid), and
- B-12 (also
known as cobalamin).
Collectively,
the B vitamins are water-soluble and can improve your milk levels.
Additionally, the contraction levels of the B vitamins in your breast milk will
increase up to a certain level before plateauing. Nonetheless, taking this
supplement will increase the supply of vitamins for your child.
Individually,
the increase of the various B vitamins will improve the developmental process
and functionality process in your child. For instance, B6 is known to support
the bodily function of cell generation and body repair while improving the
growth process. Additionally, it aids in the development of neurons.
B12, on the
other hand, improves the functionality of your child DNA and RNA, thereby
ensuring he or she grows well. B5 helps the digestive system absorb other
vitamins. B9 supports the development of red blood cells and the brain
development of your baby. The B9 vitamin is crucial in helping the baby’s brain expand its functionality.
In a nutshell,
if there is one supplement you should take while breastfeeding, your baby is
vitamin B complex.
#3. Vitamin D
You should
consider taking vitamin D supplements, especially if you are not getting enough
sunshine. Vitamin D3, which is regarded as the most crucial portion of the
vitamin, is produced in the presence of the sun’s rays by the skin. D3 combines with D2 to form the final vitamin D,
which is crucial for the strengthening of your child’s bones. The vitamin also plays a role in helping your child fight
pathogens and diseases.
#4. Vitamin C
Vitamin C is
another water-soluble vitamin that you should consider taking supplements for.
Like the other water-soluble vitamins, the B-vitamins, vitamin C can aid in the
increase of breast milk levels. Moreover, the vitamin concentration will also
increase in the milk, thereby increasing the supply of the vitamin you provide your
baby with.
Vitamin C is
critical in quick healing. Whenever you become injured, you are recommended to
take vitamin C supplements to speed up your healing process. Supplementing with
vitamin C will increase the supply of the vitamin in your child, which in turn
helps boosts your child’s
ability to heal wounds. Furthermore, the vitamin plays a vital role in the
development of white blood cells, which aids your child’s immunity. This helps your child protect him or herself from pathogens.
While these vitamins
are beneficial for you and your baby, it is essential that you consult your
physician before you start taking the supplements.
