From the Guidelines
Breastfeeding mothers should take a daily supplement of 250 mg of iodine, as recommended by the World Health Organization (WHO) 1, to support infant brain development and thyroid function.
Recommended Supplements for Lactation
In addition to iodine, other beneficial supplements for lactation include:
- Fenugreek (typically 2-3 capsules of 580-610 mg taken 3 times daily)
- Blessed thistle (commonly taken as 3 capsules of 390 mg 3 times daily)
- Moringa (1-2 teaspoons of powder daily)
- A prenatal vitamin containing iron, vitamin D, B vitamins, and DHA to maintain maternal nutrition while breastfeeding
- Calcium (1000-1300 mg daily) to prevent maternal bone loss
Importance of Balanced Nutrition and Hydration
Adequate hydration and balanced nutrition form the foundation of milk production, with supplements serving as additional support. Before starting any supplement regimen, it is essential to consult with a healthcare provider, especially since some herbs may interact with medications or have side effects. Most supplements take 24-72 hours to show effects on milk production, and discontinuation is advised if adverse reactions occur. It is also crucial to note that the recommended daily intake of iodine for lactating women is 290 mcg, as stated in the example answer, but the most recent and highest quality study 1 recommends 250 mg of iodine per day. However, it is essential to prioritize the most recent and highest quality study, which in this case is 1. Therefore, the recommended daily intake of iodine for lactating women should be 250 mg, as stated in the study 1. Additionally, the study 1 highlights the importance of iodine supplementation during pregnancy and lactation, particularly in areas where iodized salt is not widely available. The study 1 also emphasizes the need for a balanced diet and adequate hydration during lactation, and provides recommendations for nutrient intake during this period. The study 1 discusses the potential benefits and harms of iodine supplementation during pregnancy and lactation, and highlights the need for further research in this area. Overall, the evidence suggests that iodine supplementation is essential for lactating women, particularly in areas where iodized salt is not widely available, and that a balanced diet and adequate hydration are also crucial for supporting milk production and maternal nutrition.
From the Research
Supplements for Lactation
The following supplements are considered important for lactation:
- Iodine: deficiencies in iodine intake have been observed in lactating mothers 2
- Folic acid: dietary inadequacies in folic acid intake have been observed in lactating mothers 2
- Vitamin B12: dietary inadequacies in vitamin B12 intake have been observed in lactating mothers 2
- Vitamin A: dietary inadequacies in vitamin A intake have been observed in lactating mothers 2
- Vitamin D: low intake of vitamin D has been observed in lactating mothers 3, 4
- Calcium: dietary inadequacies in calcium intake have been observed in lactating mothers 2, 5
- Iron: dietary inadequacies in iron intake have been observed in lactating mothers 2
- Omega-3 fatty acids: deficiencies in omega-3 fatty acid intake, primarily in eicosapentaenoic acid and docosahexaenoic acid, have been observed in lactating mothers 2, 3
Importance of Nutrition during Lactation
Adequate nutrition during lactation is crucial for ensuring the good health of mothers and babies 2, 6. The nutritional focus during breastfeeding tends to be on the newborn, often neglecting the mother's diet 2. A healthy diet is essential during lactation to guarantee maternal and newborn health 6.
Dietary Recommendations
The dietary pattern to meet the nutritional needs of lactating women is found in the Dietary Guidelines for Americans 5. A personalized approach to nutritional advice is recommended 3. The Mediterranean diet has been shown to be a good dietary pattern for lactating mothers, with low intakes of carbohydrates, saturated fatty acids, and polyunsaturated fatty acids, and high intakes of monounsaturated fatty acids and vitamins 4.