Probiotics are living microorganisms similar to healthy bacteria normally present in the human gut. These microorganisms have several health benefits and therefore have become a popular dietary supplement in recent times. However, the health benefits of probiotics for breastfeeding mothers and their babies are yet to be explored and established. So, can breastfeeding mothers add probiotics to their regular diet? We have compiled information about the safety, facts, health benefits, side effects, and natural sources of probiotics for breastfeeding mothers. Read on to know more.
Are Probiotics Safe When Breastfeeding?
Probiotics are safe to take when breastfeeding. When used orally or as a vaginal suppository, they are generally well-tolerated and are considered safe (1). Research suggests that their persistent use could enhance the immunoprotective potential of breast milk (2). However, you need to talk to a doctor or lactation expert before taking any supplements when breastfeeding.
Important Facts About Probiotics When Breastfeeding
Laura Howells, an IBCLC from Albany, California, says, “Probiotics do not pass directly to your baby, but by colonizing your body with good bacteria, those will be passed to your baby in your milk. Breasts have a microbiome of their own to make this possible.”
Possible Health Benefits of Probiotics When Breastfeeding
There could be several combined benefits for you and your baby by consuming probiotics when breastfeeding.
Mutual Benefits
These benefits come to the mother and could also impact the baby through breast milk.
Benefits For Mothers
Possible Side Effects Of Probiotics While Breastfeeding
In the US, probiotics are sold as dietary supplements. They do not undergo the FDA’s stringent testing and approval process mandatory for the regular drugs. (18). Therefore, you need to be extra careful and cognizant of the likely side effects of probiotics (5) (19). If you do not want probiotic supplements, then you can consume the naturally occurring probiotics in foods.
Foods Rich In Probiotics For Breastfeeding Mothers
You can add the following probiotic foods to your diet.
Fermented milk products
Read the label and select a variant that has multiple ingredients Pick yogurt low in added sugar, high in protein and calcium It should be fortified with some essential nutrients, such as vitamin D
Buttermilk, sour cream, leben (a type of fermented milk), skyr, and kumis are a few other probiotic fermented milk products you could consume regularly.
