As a breastfeeding mother, you’re likely always looking for ways to improve your health and well-being. Collagen supplements have become increasingly popular in recent years, but you may be wondering whether they’re safe to take while nursing your baby. The safety and benefits of collagen for breastfeeding mothers are very important and we wanted to provide you with everything you need to know to make an informed decision.
Is It Safe To Take Collagen While Breastfeeding?
The safety of taking collagen supplements while breastfeeding is a common concern among nursing mothers. However, there’s no evidence to suggest that collagen is harmful to breastfeeding babies. Collagen is a natural protein that is already present in the body, and the supplements available on the market are typically derived from natural sources such as fish or grass-fed cows.
That being said, it’s always a good idea to consult with your healthcare provider before taking any supplements, including collagen. They can help you determine if collagen is safe for you and your baby, and provide you with any necessary precautions or recommendations.
How Much Collagen Is Safe While Breastfeeding?
When it comes to dosage, the general rule of thumb is to start with a small amount and gradually increase it over time. For breastfeeding mothers, a daily dosage of 10 grams of collagen powder is typically considered safe. However, it’s important to listen to your body and adjust the dosage accordingly. It’s also worth noting that there’s no need to exceed the recommended dosage, as doing so may not provide any additional benefits and may even lead to unwanted side effects.
What Are The Benefits Of Collagen While Breastfeeding?
Collagen is a key component of connective tissue, which is found throughout the body. It’s responsible for maintaining the strength and elasticity of skin, joints, bones, and muscles. For breastfeeding mothers, the benefits of taking collagen supplements may include:
Improved Skin Elasticity:
Collagen supplements may help improve skin elasticity and reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. This can be particularly beneficial for postpartum mothers who may be experiencing changes in their skin due to hormonal fluctuations.
Improved skin elasticity is important for breastfeeding mothers because the physical demands of nursing and caring for a newborn can take a toll on the body, including the skin. Collagen supplements can help support skin elasticity and prevent stretch marks and other skin issues related to pregnancy and postpartum.
Joint Health:
The high levels of collagen in our joints help to keep them strong and flexible. As a breastfeeding mother, you may experience joint pain or stiffness due to the physical demands of caring for your baby. Taking collagen supplements can help to alleviate these symptoms and improve your overall joint health.
Joint health is important for breastfeeding mothers because they spend a lot of time sitting or standing while nursing, which can cause joint pain and stiffness. Additionally, joint health is essential for maintaining an active and healthy lifestyle, which is important for overall well-being while caring for a newborn.
Gut Health:
Collagen is an important component of the gut lining, which is responsible for protecting the body from harmful bacteria and toxins. By taking collagen supplements, you may be able to improve your gut health and reduce your risk of developing digestive issues such as leaky gut syndrome.
What Collagen Is Best For Breastfeeding?
There are several types of collagen supplements available on the market, including bovine, marine, and chicken collagen. For breastfeeding mothers, marine collagen is often recommended as it’s typically derived from fish, which is a low-risk allergen. Additionally, marine collagen is considered to be more easily absorbed by the body than other types of collagen, making it a more effective supplement. When choosing a collagen supplement for a nursing mother, it’s important to opt for a high-quality product that’s free from additives and preservatives. Look for products that are sourced from reputable suppliers and have undergone third-party testing to ensure purity and quality.
Our two favorite collagens for breastfeeding women are Protiva Nourish and Needed Collagen, which are both specially formulated to support joint health, gut health, and improved skin elasticity. These collagen supplements are safe, effective, and easy to use, making them an ideal choice for busy moms.
Protiva Nourish
Protiva Nourish collagen is an excellent choice for breastfeeding mothers because it is specifically designed to support joint health, gut health, and skin elasticity, which are all important aspects of postpartum health. I’ll be honest, Protiva is a great collagen for women in general. This high-quality collagen supplement contains a blend of type I and type III collagen, which are essential for maintaining healthy joints, skin, and connective tissue.
Protiva Nourish is also free of common allergens like dairy, gluten, and soy, making it a safe option for moms with dietary restrictions or sensitivities. It also contains prebiotic fiber, which supports digestive health and helps to improve nutrient absorption. Furthermore, Protiva Nourish is easy to use and highly convenient for busy moms.
Needed: Collagen Protein Powder
Needed Collagen Protein Powder is a great choice for breastfeeding mothers who are looking for a high-quality collagen supplement. This premium collagen powder is sourced from grass-fed, pasture-raised bovine hides, and contains type I and type III collagen, which are essential for maintaining healthy joints, skin, and connective tissue.
In addition, Needed Collagen powder is free of additives, fillers, and artificial sweeteners, making it a pure and clean option for moms who are conscious about what they put in their bodies. It is also easy to use and can be added to a variety of beverages and recipes, making it a versatile supplement that can fit into any busy mom’s routine.
What Supplements Should I Avoid While Breastfeeding?
While many supplements are safe to take while breastfeeding, there are some that you should avoid to protect the health of your baby. Here are some supplements to avoid while breastfeeding:
High-Dose Vitamin A Supplements:
High doses of vitamin A can be toxic to your baby and may cause birth defects. Avoid taking supplements that contain more than the recommended daily intake of vitamin A.
Herbal Supplements:
Not all herbal supplements are created equally. Many herbal supplements are not regulated by the FDA and may contain ingredients that can be harmful to your baby. It’s important to talk to your doctor before taking any herbal supplements while breastfeeding. It’s actually a good rule of thumb to ask your doctor about any supplementation, especially if you’re a nursing mother.
Weight Loss Supplements:
We get it, one of the first things some new mothers want to do after giving birth is to get back into pre-birth shape. But many weight loss supplements contain ingredients that can be harmful to your baby. If weight loss is important to you, it’s important to prioritize by focusing on a healthy diet and exercise rather than taking supplements to lose weight while breastfeeding.
Energy Supplements:
Many energy supplements contain high levels of caffeine or other stimulants that can be harmful to your baby. It’s important to get enough rest and focus on a healthy diet to boost your energy levels while breastfeeding.
Breastfeeding moms can boost their energy levels by getting enough rest, staying hydrated, and eating a healthy and balanced diet. Adding a collagen supplement to your daily routine can also provide an extra energy boost and support your overall health and wellness.
As mentioned previously, it’s important to talk to your doctor before taking any supplements while breastfeeding to ensure that they are safe for you and your baby. A healthy diet that includes plenty of nutrient-rich foods is the best way to support your health and the health of your baby while breastfeeding.
Healthy Moms and Baby Are The Key
As a new mom, it’s natural to want the best for your baby. And that starts with taking care of yourself! Collagen supplements can be a safe and effective way to support your health while breastfeeding. They can help improve skin elasticity, joint health, and promote overall wellness. However, it’s important to choose a high-quality collagen supplement that is free from harmful additives and contaminants.
There are hundreds of collagen supplements on the market and it’s vital that you don’t just choose the one that pops up at the top of your Amazon or Google search. Always talk to your doctor before starting any new supplements while breastfeeding and remember to follow the recommended dosage guidelines. With the right collagen supplement and a healthy lifestyle, you can be the best version of yourself for both you and your baby!
