Vitamin C for Breastfeeding Mothers

The breastfeeding period is one of the most crucial stages for both the baby and the mother, as the mother's diet directly impacts the composition of breast milk and consequently the nutrition of the infant. So can breastfeeding mothers take vitamin C? Follow the article to find out the answer.

Can breastfeeding mothers take vitamin C?

Vitamin C is a water-soluble vitamin that supports natural growth and development, enhances iron absorption, and is typically obtained from food as the body cannot produce it. So, can breastfeeding mothers take vitamin C?

Yes, vitamin C is a natural component in human milk and is one of the primary antioxidants in breast milk. Therefore, there is no objection to breastfeeding mothers consuming vitamin C from food or dietary supplements. However, only mothers who are malnourished and have low levels of vitamin C may need to take vitamin C supplements.

You can measure your vitamin C levels by performing a Vitamin C (Ascorbic Acid) test offered by Blazma, which does not require any prior preparation.

How does vitamin C affect breast milk?

Excessive intake of vitamin C in high doses can alter the taste of breast milk, making it more acidic, but there is unlikely to be a significant effect from moderate amounts.

What are the benefits of vitamin C during breastfeeding?

The level of vitamin C in breast milk usually increases within 30 minutes of consumption, and it enhances milk production if the mother is experiencing low milk supply. However, if milk production is adequate in women, vitamin C will maintain this level.

In addition to the above, vitamin C is crucial for many metabolic processes in the body, including:

• Collagen formation, essential for strengthening the skin, blood vessels, and bones, and speeding up wound healing.
• Enhancing iron absorption, especially non-heme iron found in plant-based foods.
• Combating free radicals that damage cell membranes and increase the risk of heart disease, cancer, and other conditions, due to its antioxidant properties.
• Boosting the immune system and fighting infections.

What is the recommended amount of vitamin C for breastfeeding mothers?

The recommended daily amount of vitamin C for breastfeeding mothers is 120 milligrams per day. For infants aged 6 months or younger, the recommended daily amount of this vitamin is 40 milligrams per day. Most people can obtain this amount from their diet.

Regarding higher daily doses, up to 1000 milligrams per day, they are not harmful to the mother or the infant and do not warrant discontinuation of breastfeeding. The kidneys typically regulate the amount of vitamin C in the body, excreting any excess. The recommended upper limit for all breastfeeding or non-breastfeeding women is 2000 milligrams.

What are the natural sources of vitamin C?

The body cannot produce vitamin C, so it is typically obtained from food or dietary supplements in cases of malnutrition or severe deficiency. Here is a list of the main natural sources:

• Leafy green vegetables.
• Tomatoes.
• Kiwi.
• Citrus fruits such as oranges, lemons, and grapefruits.
• Mango.
• Watermelon.
• Strawberries.
• Cabbage.
• Bell peppers.
• Cauliflower.
• Potatoes.

What are the risks of vitamin C?

Vitamin C is relatively non-toxic, but excessive amounts (i.e., more than 3000 milligrams per day) can cause the following side effects in the mother:

• Diarrhea.
• Nausea.
• Vomiting.
• Headache.
• Stomach cramps.
• Gastric reflux.