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The postpartum phase is usually not easy for every mom. New mothers may experience fatigue, lack of sleep, anxiety, or depression. They, therefore, resort to looking for ways to calm themselves down. Ashwagandha has been relied on to promote restful sleep, reduce stress and treat pain. But is the herb safe for breastfeeding mothers? This article discusses everything you need to know about Ashwagandha.
What is Ashwagandha?
Ashwagandha has been used for many years in traditional Ayurvedic medicine and has always been associated with the strength and smell of a horse. Its scientific name is Withania somnifera. The herbs are mainly found in Asia and Africa and have been known as an adaptogen. This means it helps the body adapt to stress and promotes overall well-being.
Ashwagandha has numerous health benefits like; reducing stress, anxiety, and insomnia. It also helps to boost energy levels, support a healthy immune system and enhance cognitive function. Many studies have found Ashwagandha has significant health benefits.
Benefits of Ashwagandha for Postnatal Health
The benefits of Ashwagandha on nursing mothers have not been studied extensively. However, it is considered safe. Some of the benefits on herbs in postpartum are;
1. Stress management
Ashwagandha is renowned for its adaptogenic properties, which helps the body adapt to stress and promote overall well-being. During the postnatal period, mothers may experience increased stress levels due to factors such as sleep deprivation, hormonal changes, and adjusting to new responsibilities. Ashwagandha can potentially support the body’s stress response system, helping to alleviate stress and promote a sense of calm and relaxation.
2. Energy and vitality support
The demands of caring for a newborn can be physically draining, leading to fatigue and decreased energy levels. Ashwagandha has been traditionally used to support energy and vitality. It may help boost energy levels, combat fatigue, and promote a sense of rejuvenation. By supporting energy levels, Ashwagandha can aid new mothers in meeting the demands of motherhood while maintaining their own well-being.
3. Rich In Iron
Ashwagandha is an excellent source of iron. Iron is essential to postpartum mothers after childbirth. It may help with Iron deficiency which might occur from blood loss during birth.
4. Mood enhancement
Postnatal hormonal fluctuations can contribute to mood swings and emotional imbalances. Ashwagandha can support hormonal balance during this period. It may help regulate hormones and promote a more stable mood. By enhancing mood, Ashwagandha can positively impact the emotional well-being of new mothers, promoting a more positive and balanced state of mind.
5. Support for postpartum depression and anxiety
Postpartum depression and anxiety are common challenges faced by new mothers. Emerging research suggests that Ashwagandha may have potential benefits in supporting mental health and addressing symptoms of postpartum depression and anxiety. It may help reduce feelings of sadness, anxiety, and overwhelm, promoting a more positive and balanced mental state.
However, postpartum depression and anxiety are serious conditions that require professional support and guidance. Ashwagandha should be used as part of a comprehensive treatment plan and under the supervision of healthcare professionals.
Nutritional Requirements During Breastfeeding
Breastfeeding mothers have increased nutritional needs to support both their own health and the production of breast milk. Nursing mothers sought for foods that have nutrients like;
Calories – Breastfeeding mothers require 300-500 calories daily to support milk production and their energy needs. However, individual calorie needs may vary based on age, weight, activity level, and metabolism.
Protein – Adequate protein intake is essential for tissue repair and milk production. Including protein-rich foods such as lean meats, poultry, fish, eggs, legumes, dairy products, and plant-based protein sources like tofu and tempeh can help meet protein requirements.
Calcium – Breastfeeding mothers need to ensure sufficient calcium intake for their bone health and provide calcium for breast milk. Good sources of calcium include dairy products, fortified plant-based milks, leafy green vegetables, and calcium-fortified foods.
Iron – Iron is essential for producing red blood cells and preventing iron deficiency. Iron-rich foods like lean meats, poultry, fish, legumes, nuts, seeds, fortified cereals, and dark green leafy vegetables should be included in the diet.
Healthy Fats – Healthy fats, including omega-3 fatty acids, are great for the baby’s brain development and overall health. Sources of healthy fats include fatty fish (e.g., salmon), avocados, nuts, seeds, and plant-based oils like olive oil.
Water – Drinking an adequate amount of water is crucial for milk production and to maintain overall hydration.
Ashwagandha while Breastfeeding
Ashwagandha is categorized as Lactation Category C; this means it can be taken while breastfeeding. It is a rich iron source, essential for red blood cell production and energy levels. It also contains calcium, which is crucial for bone health and muscle function. Since calcium and Iron are major nutrients a lactating mother needs, Ashwagandha may be helpful.
However, talk to your doctor before taking any herb or supplement while breastfeeding. Note that what you eat or drink passes to your breastmilk and is taken by the baby. Some herbs are powerful and are not suitable for the baby.
There is a lack of comprehensive studies and clinical trials explicitly focusing on Ashwagandha’s effects on milk supply or breastfeeding outcomes. However, some studies have been conducted on Ashwagandha’s general effects on hormonal balance, stress reduction, and overall well-being, which indirectly may have implications for lactation.
These studies suggest that Ashwagandha may support hormonal regulation and reduce stress, positively affecting milk production and the breastfeeding experience. These studies are not directly focused on lactation; more research is needed to draw definitive conclusions. Most women take Ashwagandha during lactation and enjoy the other benefits.
Final Thoughts
While Ashwagandha, while breastfeeding, has more benefits, consult your doctor before using it in your postpartum phase. While the benefits sound great; less stress ad more sleep, there is not enough research to support that the herb is safe for breastfeeding mothers. Be sure to hear your doctor’s advice.