An Overview of Maca and Breastfeeding
Consuming maca in normal amounts through food appears to be safe for breastfeeding infants. However, it is not known if maca supplements are also safe. Therefore, it is a good idea to check with your healthcare provider before taking maca supplements while breastfeeding.
Is Maca Safe While Breastfeeding?
It is not known if maca supplements are safe (or unsafe) for women who are breastfeeding. No studies have evaluated the safety of maca for use during breastfeeding.
Just because maca is a vegetable, it does not mean that maca supplements are safe for use during breastfeeding. Sometimes, a normal intake of some substances through food is perfectly safe, while consumption through
dietary supplements may cause problems. Often, dietary supplements provide substances at much higher doses, compared to a normal intake through food. Sometimes, the preparation process or other factors introduce contaminants or somehow change the components in ways that make the supplement unsafe for women who are breastfeeding and their infants. It simply cannot be assumed that a dietary supplement derived from a vegetable source is safe.
Talking With Your Healthcare Provider About Maca and Breastfeeding
You should talk with your healthcare provider about maca and breastfeeding. Each woman's situation is different, and you and your healthcare provider understand your situation best. After considering what you want and expect, as well as your current health situation, you and your healthcare provider can make a shared decision about maca and breastfeeding that is right for you.
