Question

I am a breastfeeding mother and i want to know if it is safe to use Laminaria digitata? Is Laminaria digitata safe for nursing mother and child? Does Laminaria digitata extracts into breast milk? Does Laminaria digitata has any long term or short term side effects on infants? Can Laminaria digitata influence milk supply or can Laminaria digitata decrease milk supply in lactating mothers?

Laminaria digitata lactation summary

Laminaria digitata is unsafe in breastfeeding
  • DrLact safety Score for Laminaria digitata is 5 out of 8 which is considered Unsafe as per our analyses.
  • A safety Score of 5 indicates that usage of Laminaria digitata may cause serious side effects in breastfed baby.
  • Our study of different scientific research indicates that Laminaria digitata may cause moderate to high side effects or may affect milk supply in lactating mother.
  • Our suggestion is to use safer alternate options rather than using Laminaria digitata .
  • It is recommended to evaluate the advantage of not breastfeeding while using Laminaria digitata Vs not using Laminaria digitata And continue breastfeeding.
  • While using Laminaria digitata Its must to monitor child for possible reactions. It is also important to understand that side effects vary largely based on age of breastfed child and time of medication in addition to dosage.
  • Score calculated using the DrLact safety Version 1.2 model, this score ranges from 0 to 8 and measures overall safety of drug in lactation. Scores are primarily calculated using publicly available case studies, research papers, other scientific journals and publically available data.

Answer by Dr. Ru: About Laminaria digitata usage in lactation

Seaweeds contain large amounts of mucilage and minerals, including iodine which appears in variable amounts that can be significant, in such a way that it may be a cause a hyperthyroidism-like disease (anxiety, insomnia, tachycardia, palpitations).It may also contain heavy metals, being a species of seaweed with a high ability of contamination by toxic products. Seaweed consumption increases levels of iodine in plasma and breast milk.There have been reports of hypothyroidism in infants whose mothers have included in their diet important quantities of seaweed. There is no evidence of effectiveness on increasing milk production. The most effective method to increase milk production should be done by strengthening maternal self-confidence, evaluate and correct problems along with an effective support to breastfeeding mothers. It is recommended to obtain information on the composition of any particular algae and avoid it or use it in very moderate amount in case of iodine content would be important.

Synonyms of Laminaria digitata

Disclaimer: Information presented in this database is not meant as a substitute for professional judgment. You should consult your healthcare provider for breastfeeding advice related to your particular situation. We do not warrant or assume any liability or responsibility for the accuracy or completeness of the information on this Site.