Dietary supplements for breastfeeding mothers: The best for your baby's health

• Dietary supplements for breastfeeding mothers: The best for your baby's health
  • Why are we talking about dietary supplements during breastfeeding?
  • When is it useful to consider integration (and when is it not)?
  • What benefits can be expected from dietary supplements during breastfeeding?
  • All nutrients that support breastfeeding
    • Folic acid
    • DHA and Omega-3
    • Iron and vitamin B12
    • Calcium, Vitamin D and K2
    • Iodine and selenium
    • B vitamins
    • Vitamins C and E
    • Probiotics
    • magnesium
  • Galactogenic supplements for breastfeeding mothers: What does science say?
  • How to take dietary supplements correctly
  • Diet and lifestyle that naturally support breastfeeding
  • When should you consult a professional?
  • How to choose a truly safe breastfeeding supplement

The birth of a child is an extraordinary moment, full of new emotions and profound changes for the mother's body.

Breastfeeding requires energy and nutrients , and maintaining this balance isn't always easy in the first few months. For this reason, many women wonder if there are supplements that can support their bodies while also promoting the well-being of their newborn .

To say it right away : We will see if and when they can be useful, what advantages they actually offer, and which nutrients are most important for a breastfeeding mother.

Why are we talking about dietary supplements during breastfeeding?

After birth, the mother's body She is undergoing a major transformation. She needs to regain her energy , rebalance her hormones , replenish her iron and other micronutrient stores , and simultaneously resume continuous milk production.

All of this leads to an increased need for nutrients , which is difficult to meet through food alone, especially in the months when the rhythm of life is irregular, people sleep little and fatigue accumulates.

Breastfeeding increases the need for many vitamins and minerals (such as vitamin D, calcium, iron, DHA, iodine), which pass directly into breast milk.

It also increases because the body expends a large portion of its own resources to produce complete and nutritious food for the child.

In this context, dietary supplements become an important topic: not because they are meant to replace a balanced diet, but because they can help to compensate for any deficiencies or to offer support in particularly difficult times.

When it makes sense to consider integration (and when it doesn't)

A dietary supplement is not always necessary, but can be helpful in many practical situations in the life of a young mother.

For example, signs such as pronounced and persistent fatigue, lack of motivation , difficulty concentrating , hair loss , brittle nails or pale skin may indicate that the body needs additional nutrients.

If deficiencies were detected during pregnancy ( especially in iron, vitamin D, B12 or omega-3 fatty acids), these are very likely to recur after birth, so targeted supplementation is beneficial.

Then there are situations in which integration is strongly recommended , for example in the following cases:

• vegan or vegetarian diet ;
• delivered with severe blood loss ;
• Twin breastfeeding ;
• very high milk production ;
• Periods of severeanxiety , physical or mental stress .

Conversely, if the mother eats a varied and balanced diet and consumes many important nutrients for breastfeeding and shows no signs of deficiency , additional nutrient intake may not be necessary .

The goal should always be to listen to your body and, if necessary, seek advice from an expert.

What benefits can you expect from dietary supplements during breastfeeding?

The dietary supplements They don't perform miracles, but they can provide real support during the months when fatigue is particularly severe and nutritional needs are high.

Many mothers initially notice an improvement in their overall energy levels , thanks to the restoration of essential nutrients for metabolism.

Even treating postpartum deficits (which are very common in the first few months) can make a big difference to mental clarity , mood , and daily well-being.

Another important area concerns supporting milk production . While breastfeeding on demand and adequate fluid intake remain key elements, certain nutrients contribute to smooth lactation and the quality of breast milk .

All nutrients that support breastfeeding

During breastfeeding, the mother's body works tirelessly to produce wholesome food that is rich in vitamins , minerals , essential fats and proteins .

For this reason, the need for nutrients increases significantly. It's not about "eating for two," but rather about ensuring a constant supply of the nutrients that are essential for the quality of breast milk and the well-being of both mother and child.

Let's take a look at the most important nutrients during breastfeeding and why it is so important to ensure an adequate intake of these nutrients.

1. Folic acid

Folic acid It is important not only during pregnancy, but also in the months after birth. In fact, it continues to contribute to normal blood formation and proper tissue development during breastfeeding.

Many mothers are born with reduced folic acid reserves because the fetus consumes a large amount of folic acid during pregnancy.

Continued support during breastfeeding helps the body recover faster and ensures a good supply of folic acid in breast milk.

2. DHA and Omega-3

DHA is one of the most important omega-3 fatty acids for a growing child .

It is a fundamental component of the brain and retina , therefore a good maternal supply directly influences the cognitive and visual development of the newborn .

Many women do not get enough vitamins through their diet alone , especially if they eat little fish.

Targeted DHA supplementation can help maintain high DHA concentrations in breast milk and thus make an important contribution to the neurological development of the baby in the first months of life.

3. Iron and Vitamin B12

Childbirth can lead to significant iron loss, and many women already have low or borderline iron levels in the first few days after delivery.

Iron and vitamin B12 work synergistically: they support the production of red blood cells , promote energy recovery and help to prevent or correct postpartum anemia , a condition that can make it difficult to cope with the intense pace of the first few months.

A sufficient level of these nutrients in breast milk is also essential for the correct neurological development of the newborn .

4. Calcium, Vitamin D and K2

Calcium , vitamin D and K2 form a true “triangle of bone health ”.

During breastfeeding , the mother's body transfers calcium into her breast milk to ensure the healthy development of the baby's bones and teeth . If the calcium intake is insufficient, the mother may draw on her own reserves, which can negatively affect bone density.

Vitamin D helps in the absorption of calcium , while vitamin K2 promotes its correct distribution in the tissues , thus helping to keep the skeletal system of mother and newborn in balance.

5. Iodine and Selenium

Iodine and selenium These are two micronutrients that are essential for the proper functioning of the thyroid gland , a gland that works particularly intensively during breastfeeding.

The thyroid gland regulates metabolism, energy balance and even the quality of breast milk : A deficiency in iodine or selenium can cause the mother to suffer from pronounced fatigue, difficulty concentrating or mood swings.

An adequate supply of these nutrients is also essential for the newborn , whose neurological development depends, among other things, on thyroid hormones.

6. B vitamins

B vitamins are involved in almost all metabolic processes : They help convert food into energy , support the nervous system and contribute to mood regulation .

Their need increases during breastfeeding , both because the mother's body uses more energy and because many of these vitamins pass directly into breast milk.

Consuming sufficient amounts of it helps reduce feelings of tiredness, supports concentration and promotes a better psychophysical balance in the sensitive months after birth .

7. Vitamins C and E

Vitamins C and E are two powerful natural antioxidants that help the body counteract oxidative stress, which increases after childbirth and during periods of extreme fatigue.

Vitamin C also supports the normal function of the immune system. and contributes to the production of collagen , which is important for maternal tissue during recovery.

Vitamin E protects cell membranes and supports skin health ; it also contributes to the stability of fatty acids in milk .

Taking sufficient amounts of both products helps the mother to recover faster and maintain good quality breast milk .

8. Probiotics

Probiotics are not nutrients, but beneficial microorganisms that contribute to the balance of the intestinal flora .

During breastfeeding, they can be a valuable ally: they support digestion , strengthen the mother's immune system and can contribute to better intestinal well-being , which is often put to the test after pregnancy.

A balanced gut flora also contributes to the formation of a healthy microbiota in the newborn , as some strains can be transmitted via breast milk and have a positive effect on its immunity in the first months of life.

9. Magnesium

Magnesium is one of the most useful minerals for supporting muscle relaxation , sleep quality and mental well-being .

In the weeks and months following childbirth, it can help to relieve tension , irritability , and the feeling of " nervous fatigue " that is common in new mothers.

It also contributes to the normal function of the nervous system and energy production. Adequate intake can therefore promote better emotional balance and a greater ability to cope with the daily demands of breastfeeding.

Galactagogical dietary supplements for breastfeeding mothers: What does science say?

When milk production seems to decrease or the baby is frequently demanding, many mothers wonder whether herbs such as fenugreek , fennel or Galega officinalis can actually increase lactation .

Scientific research confirms this: These plants have long been used as "galactogas", i.e., substances that stimulate milk production.

Some studies specifically conducted with Galega Officinalis showed significantly higher milk yields in the groups taking the preparation compared to the placebo group, without any adverse effects .

However, the particular sensitivity of the breastfeeding period must be emphasized. Therefore, it is always important to make informed decisions regarding nutrition and dietary supplements and, if necessary, to consult an expert beforehand.

How to take dietary supplements correctly

When choosing a dietary supplement, it is important to follow some rules to minimize risks and maximize benefits .

It is best to take the product during or immediately after a meal , as food promotes absorption and reduces possible stomach discomfort.

Adequate fluid intake is important : Drinking water regularly promotes milk production and contributes to a good water balance.

It is also important to be aware of possible interactions . Many herbs can affect blood sugar levels and blood pressure. or cause interactions with medications ; therefore, it is advisable to consult a doctor if the mother is taking medication or suffers from certain diseases (e.g., diabetes, hypotension, thyroid problems, allergies).

Finally, it makes sense that supplementation should only last as long as necessary : Supplementation on demand can help in critical moments (low milk supply, stress, nutrient deficiency), but it is not advisable to use galactagoga for a longer period of time without medical supervision.

Diet and lifestyle that naturally support breastfeeding

Dietary supplements can be helpful, but the foundation of a healthy lifestyle, characterized by a balanced diet and good self-care, is always necessary .

• Consuming nutrient-rich foods (high-quality proteins, healthy fatty acids, fruits, vegetables, whole grain products) provides the body with everything it needs to support milk production.
• Furthermore, consistent fluid intake is essential. Frequent breastfeeding increases fluid loss, so drinking regularly helps maintain energy and milk supply.
• Lifestyle also plays a role. It's important to get as much sleep as possible , take breaks, and avoid excessive stress so that the body stays in balance.
• Listening and breastfeeding on demand is often the best stimulus : the frequency of sucking remains the main factor regulating milk production.
• Ultimately , emotional and social support makes all the difference. Feeling supported, connecting with other mothers, and having a support network can make breastfeeding significantly more pleasant.

When should you consult a professional?

To recognize signs that require a professional examination.

If you notice a significant decrease in milk production , excessive fatigue , signs of nutrient deficiencies , or persistent physical discomfort , it is advisable to seek qualified advice.

The gynecologist can assess the general health and postpartum condition , the nutritionist can recommend a balanced diet and targeted supplements, while an IBCLC consultant is the most suitable contact person for specific breastfeeding problems and to support correct sucking techniques .

It is essential not to rely on general advice from the internet or social media , as every mother and newborn has different needs and not all information available online is reliable.

How to choose a truly safe breastfeeding supplement

When choosing a breastfeeding supplement, the quality of the ingredients and the processing are crucial for effectiveness and safety .

It is always important to check the label to confirm the purity standards and the origin of the raw materials, which guarantee a reliable product.

The ingredients must be processed according to controlled supply chains and certified procedures, as the quality of the raw materials has a direct impact on the effectiveness of the food supplement.

At RedMoringa, we exclusively manufacture products that meet the highest standards , with certified labels and raw materials from Italy with a controlled supply chain – developed for the well-being of mother and child.

Our breastfeeding supplement for the postpartum period It combines the properties of Galega Officinalis , known for its milk-promoting effect , saffron , which promotes a good mood and a balanced disposition, and Moringa Oleifera , a superfood rich in essential nutrients and antioxidants .

Regular intake of this dietary supplement supports milk production , provides important nutrients for postpartum recovery, and contributes to the mother's overall well-being. Thanks to its positive effect on milk quality, it also benefits the baby.

Start taking care of your body and your baby's health right now by choosing a supplement specifically designed to safely and effectively support breastfeeding.

GO TO THE BREASTFEEDING SUPPLEMENT

Sources:

• https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC9684698/