What vitamins are good for a breastfeeding mother to take?

Question

i'd like to start taking vitamins for not only my benefit, but my son's as well. i know i could just take a multi-vitamin, but im sure there are more specific options out the there. what are some of the best choices for a breastfeeding women in her 20's? thanks so much.

Answer 1

It's a good idea to keep taking your prenatal vitamins.

Otherwise, any standard multivitamin -- or just a healthy diet is all that's necessary. Your milk will be perfect even if you are poorly nourished, so the extra vitamins are for you.  

Answer 2

Any prenatal is fine.   Vitamins are for YOU... since your body is putting all the good stuff in your milk, taking vitamins is for you to stay healthy.  It's not going to give your milk any more healthty stuff.. well maybe a little of some things, but sometimes TOO MUCH of other things.

If you eat a good diet, you shouldn't have to take any vitamins at all really.

Answer 3

Continue taking your prenatal vitamins.  

Answer 4

You can just keep taking your prenatal vitamins.

Answer 5

If you feel it's necessary to take vitamin supplements, try to find some that are not synthetic. You might have to find some organic food stores to find these, but they are really worth it. Synthetics really don't do a whole lot for the body.  Otherwise, fruits and vegetables are PACKED with necessary vitamins and minerals, and actually, if you're on a diet that is rich in fruits and veggies, you shouldn't need to take any extra vitamin supplements at all...

Answer 6

My doctor has me still taking my prenatal vitamins until after I am done breastfeeding.  I also take calcium everyday.  The baby needs so much of it and so do you.

Answer 7

My MD told me to continue with the prenatal vitamin. Lots of other brands of multivitamins have such a wide assortment of vitamins and minerals, and often contain more of the daily value intake than needed.

Answer 8

Just your prenatal vitamins that you took while you were pregnant.  It tells you on the bottle that you should take them while you are breastfeeding.  Materna is a good brand.  Good luck.