Can You Take Hair, Nail And Skin Vitamins While Breastfeeding?
Are you worried about dry skin, brittle nails, or hair loss after giving birth? Are you interested in taking vitamins but unclear if they are good for your child? If yes, don’t worry. All of your concerns will be covered in this article, along with suggestions on how to take better care of your skin, hair, and nails. Continue reading!
Deteriorating hair texture, dry, dull skin, and weak nails are issues that many new mothers encounter. Taking biotin supplements is the common recommendation we hear for treating these issues. Biotin also known as vitamin B7 or B8 is a B-vitamin that improves the health of the hair, nails, and skin. It is, in fact, one of the vitamins that your post-partum body needs.
However, many mothers wonder whether taking these nutritional supplements is safe for their children because vitamins are leached into breast milk. The straightforward answer is yes.
According to Lacted, you can take vitamin supplements while nursing, but be aware of the quantity. Since too much might be hazardous to your child. Also, remember that if you are breastfeeding or pregnant, your doses of vitamins will alter. Therefore, it is advised to see your medical professional before taking any supplements.
Vitamins And Minerals That Work Against Dry Skin, Brittle Hair And Nails
- B vitamins. Biotin is known as “the hair vitamin. You can find it, fundamentally, in certain nuts, something that we run away from when we are on a diet. You can also find isolated biotin in nutricosmetics. Vitamin B12 or cobalamin helps us maintain impeccable-looking hair and nails and is found in fish, shellfish, eggs and some red meats (so a vegetarian diet will need vitamins of this type outside of your balanced diet). Finally, vitamin B3 or niacin stimulates the growth of hair and nails. Seeds, legumes, green leafy vegetables and carrots are some of the foods that provide us with niacin.
- Vitamin C. Vitamin C, present mainly in citrus and red fruits, prevents premature aging and dryness and prevents hair loss. Broccoli, cauliflower, spinach and celery are very rich in this vitamin.
- Vitamins A and D. The lack of vitamin A, responsible for stimulating the production of sebum, dries out the hair. It is, therefore, essential to incorporate it into our diet. Carrots, mango, egg yolk and milk are rich in this fat-soluble vitamin. So is D, among whose benefits is the improvement of hair follicle and nail health, and which we find in fish, eggs, dairy products, liver… Again, a diet without animal protein will most likely have a deficit of this vitamin.
- Vitamin E. Responsible for creating new blood vessels and, consequently, improving circulation, vitamin E is an essential nutrient for maintaining healthy hair and nails. You can find it in sunflower seeds, some nuts, vegetable oils, broccoli, spinach, and avocados…
- Zinc, copper, etc. Garlic, wheat germ or chickpeas are foods rich in zinc, whose symptoms can be nails with white spots and brittle hair. Copper is found in dried fruits, red meats, shellfish, cocoa or soybeans, among others. Its deficit can influence the lack of pigmentation of the hair, among other things.
What Constitutes Vitamin for Hair, Skin, and Nails Treatment?
Vitamins for the hair, nails, and skin act as supplements to treat nutritional deficiencies and improve bodily health. These, sometimes referred to as beauty supplements, have grown in favor for preserving the health of the skin, hair health, and nails.
In fact, celebrities and social media influencers frequently tout vitamins for their numerous advantages.
Vitamins for healthy hair, skin, and nails frequently include biotin, a B-complex vitamin, along with vitamins A, vitamin C, and vitamin E.
In most cases, a variety of other nutrients are also included, including flaxseed oil, fish oil, iron, manganese, selenium, and manganese, all of which support strong, healthy thicker hair, skin & nails.
You may have seen a wide variety of these vitamins on the shelves of your nearby supermarkets, and they all include biotin, sometimes known as vitamin H.
These ingredients have been touted as a miraculous treatment for skin blemishes, brittle nails, and even hair loss.
Are These Extra Vitamins Necessary Post Birth?
Women are advised by the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) to take postnatal vitamins for the duration of nursing.
Some experts say that the best practice is to keep taking them beyond your breastfeeding journey, especially if you intend on having more children.
Women who decide not to breastfeed need to keep taking their prenatal vitamins for at least six months after giving birth.
Are They Safe To Take When Nursing?
Yes, as long as they are used in moderation, these vitamins are safe. Higher concentrations of vitamin D3, vitamin B6, and vitamin B12 are frequently found in these products. All of which support the well-being of both mother and child. In fact, these supplements support a mother’s nutrition through a tough time in her nursing journey.
It goes without saying that you will have less time for homemade meals and self-care, so having the choice to make sure you are keeping the proper quantities of vitamins and minerals may be a relief.
How to Maintain Healthy Hair, Skin, and Nails While Naturally Breastfeeding
There are safe and natural ways to preserve the health of your skin, hair, and nails even if postpartum problems like hair loss, brittle nails, and dry skin are frequent.
1. Keep Up a Healthy Diet
To satisfy both your body’s nutritional needs and those of your infant (via breast milk), you must eat a well-balanced diet. Dry hair and brittle nails can be caused by poor nutrition, stress, and poisonous substances. The following meals are very important in giving you the nutrients you need for gorgeous skin, strong nails, and glossy hair.
- Green leafy vegetables, such as spinach, watercress, broccoli, kale, and spirulina, are superfoods that you shouldn’t leave out of your diet. These foods provide biotin, iron, and vitamins A, E, K, and C. Which are all beneficial for the health of your skin, nails, and hair.
- Root veggies are a good source of vitamin A, which promotes strong hair, nails, and skin. Examples of such veggies are sweet potatoes, carrots, and pumpkins.
- Oats – rich in protein and biotin, oats support healthy skin, hair, and nails. They also increase milk output.
- Almonds – Almonds are rich in vitamin E and proteins. Vitamin E promotes collagen synthesis and aids in the reduction of inflammation in the body. Additionally high in calcium, almonds maintain healthy bones and nails.
- Pumpkin seeds are among the finest foods for hair, skin, and nails because they are rich in biotin, which makes them good for healthy nails and hair. They are a good source of protein, biotin, potassium, magnesium, and omega-3, all of which are necessary for strong, healthy hair, skin, and nails. Your skin, hair, and nails may all be quickly improved by eating a quarter cup of pumpkin seeds.
2. Cut back on simple carbohydrates and saturated fats.
Because too much saturated fat and protein might affect our overall health, it’s crucial to list both what to consume and what to avoid eating. Dull skin, a lack of radiance, or even acne outbreaks can be seen as a result of the liver having to work harder and the removal of toxins taking longer.
As a result, not only should white meat, eggs, and legumes be favored in the diet, but also industrial fat and processed foods should be eliminated.
3. Stay Hydrated
Hydration is beneficial for your general health as well as for nursing. Water helps your body eliminate toxins, which is great for your skin hydration and promotes the health of your hair growth and skin.
4. Take Essential Vitamins for Postnatal Care
Although it is ideal to obtain all the nutrients you require through food, this may not always be achievable. As a result, most healthcare professionals advise new moms to take postnatal vitamins. The components in postnatal vitamins, which are specially formulated for your body’s postpartum nutritional requirements and baby growth, encourage milk supply and hair growth.
5. Apply Special Products
By using keratin-based products, such as shampoos, conditioners, or specialized masks, you may revive the attractiveness of your hair.
Its constituents will aid in the development of wholesome proteins that have the tendency to smooth it and provide it suppleness, hydration, and an exceptional shine.
Just make sure they include necessary minerals like vitamin E and vitamin B5, along with zinc, iron, and copper, since they all greatly boost keratin synthesis.
Which Other Vitamins and Supplements Are Safe To Take While Breastfeeding?
Prenatal vitamins and daily multivitamin/minerals are often suggested for breastfeeding women who don’t get enough nutrition from food alone. However, there isn’t any evidence that suggests taking standalone vitamin or herbal supplement products during pregnancy or breastfeeding is harmful.
Ultimately, it really comes down to whether you think you need more of a particular vitamin or nutrient. If you and your health professional decide you need more of one, then supplementation is usually safe, provided that you stay within the recommended dose and don’t take too large a dose.
Herbal products aren’t always safe, even if they’re natural. Many herbal products haven’t been well studied in pregnant or breastfeeding women or nursing babies. So doctors don’t really understand their safety or effectiveness.
Unlike prescription drugs, dietary supplement companies don’t need to prove their products are safe before they’re allowed to sell them. Therefore, you’re usually better off avoiding them entirely.
If you’re going to use any kind of herbal or homeopathic supplements, speak with your health professional before taking them. Try to take the smallest dose you can and take the supplement right away after breastfeeding so that the amount of the supplement ends up in your breastmilK.
If you’re wondering if there are any vitamins or supplements you should be taking during pregnancy or after birth, here are some of the most commonly asked questions about them.
Collagen
There isn’t much evidence that taking collagen during pregnancy or lactation is harmful, but since there aren’t any studies specifically looking at breastfeeding mothers, your best bet is to wait until after you’ve weaned.
Echinacea
Echinacea may be effective at treating colds and flus. But there isn’t enough evidence yet to say if it’s safe when taken by pregnant women or nursing mothers.
Elderberry
Another natural remedy believed to be helpful for fighting off colds or flus. It has not been studied enough in pregnant or nursing mothers, so you’re better off avoiding it.
Magnesium
Magnesium plays a crucial role in more than 300 different biochemical processes in the body, from helping your bones absorb enough vitamin D to keeping your heart healthy. You need magnesium every day, but pregnant and nursing mothers don’t seem to be at particular risk for low levels.
More importantly, supplemental calcium can be harmful in large amounts. So try to get enough of the mineral from foods such as nuts, seeds, whole grain products, peanut butter, and black beans. If you’re deficient, talk to your physician about ways to supplement safely.
Taking Vitamins While Breastfeeding Conclusion
Hair, skin & nails are those external attributes that we must take care of to maintain our youth and our attractiveness every day. And for these, vitamin supplements are the easiest way out. So now, even if you are breastfeeding your newborn, you can take these supplements however, be mindful of the dosage.
The majority of supplements for healthy skin, nails and hair regrowth include high concentrations of biotin and vitamins A and vitamin E. Which may be detrimental to your nursing infant if taken in excess.
If you have any questions, stick to the dosage specified on the bottle or speak with a healthcare provider.
You may continue taking these vitamins safely by being aware of these possible risks and taking precautions to make sure you’re not consuming too much of them.
Faqs
What are prenatal vitamins?
Pregnancy supplements are usually taken by women who are pregnant. They contain nutrients that help support the health of both mother and baby.
Folic acids are an essential part of any diet. They’re needed for healthy growth and development of babies’ bodies. Women who plan to get pregnant should start taking them months before they try to conceive. Pregnant women also should continue taking them until after delivery.
You don’t need to buy any supplements unless your healthcare professional recommends them. Your healthcare providers may suggest certain vitamin supplements for you.
Why Are Vitamins Important For Your Baby?
Vitamines are essential for a child’s growth and development. They help ensure that a child gets enough nutrients throughout their life. If they don’t get enough vitamines. Then they run the risk of developing deficiencies which could cause stunting of growth and delays in developmental milestones.
During the first few months of life, babies get most of their nutrition from breastfeeding. After six months, they start eating solid foods, but even then, breastfeeding can provide some nutrients.
Does cutting hair help with postpartum hair loss?
If you want to go for a “practical ” haircut, then you might be able to get away with it, but it won’t stop hair loss. Hair loss happens because your body naturally sheds old hair.
Does breastfeeding cause hair to fall out?
Most women lose about 50% of their body hair after giving birth. Some women may lose more hair than others. However, this is completely normal and does not mean your baby is sucking too much. In addition, if you are experiencing any unusual changes in your skin, such as redness or itching, contact your doctor immediately.