The weeks after birth are filled with bonding, figuring out breastfeeding, and sleepless nights. New mothers’ bodies are put to the test! Having proper nutrition and balanced meals during this time is very important but it’s can be difficult to do, which is why all new moms should consider taking postnatal vitamins to make sure they are receiving the nutrients they and their babies need. Below we will go over the 5 best postnatal vitamins for breastfeeding moms (and all moms really!).
Do I Need Them?
According to WebMD, postnatal vitamins are supplements designed to help meet the health needs of women who have given birth. They share many core elements with prenatal vitamins, but some versions also account for concerns unique to the postpartum period. For example, postnatal vitamins may be designed to boost supply while breastfeeding or to help mothers recover from delivery. Many also address hormonal changes or sleep-wake rhythm shifts.
While the decision to take a postnatal vitamin is completely up to you, there are several benefits to them. Pregnancy depletes the nutrients in your body and breastfeeding increases the demand for nutrients. You already know how vital your prenatal vitamin was in delivering extra nutrients to your growing baby; a postnatal vitamin does the same but also helps increase your milk supply.
Postnatal vitamins can help level out your hormones as your estrogen and progesterone levels drop, which can cause mood swings, anxiety, and even postpartum depression. Taking a postnatal vitamin can help you maintain optimal nutrient levels so you can feel your best. A mama at their best is what’s best for your baby!
How to Choose a Postnatal Vitamin
You should choose a postnatal vitamin that is well-rounded and trusted by healthcare professionals. A good postnatal vitamin contains a variety of vitamins with high levels of DHA, choline, and iron. However, you may be looking for extra support in one area of your postpartum journey and may want to consider vitamins that specifically meet that need.
The list we curated below is specifically full of the best postnatal vitamins for breastfeeding moms. However, we recommend talking with your care provider about what the best fit for you will be.
When Should I Start Taking Postnatal Vitamins?
You can start taking postnatal vitamins as soon as you have given birth. You should continue to take them for as long as you’re breastfeeding your baby.
5 Best Postnatal Vitamins for Breastfeeding Moms
Ritual Essential Postnatal Multivitamin
Ritual’s Essential Postnatal Multivitamin is formulated for mothers up to six months postpartum and throughout breastfeeding. We love that this multivitamin is designed to be easily absorbed and contains 15 nutrients to support the demands of breastfeeding, including iron, iodine, folate, vitamin D, and DHA. The capsules are delayed-release capsules designed to be taken with or without food.
Things to Know: This multivitamin is it does not contain calcium.
Price: $35
Nature Made Postnatal + DHA
Nature Made Postnatal Multi + 200 mg DHA is specially formulated with higher amounts of vitamins A, B, C, D, and E, it helps mommas meet increased energy demands as they navigate sleepless nights. We love that it contains 200 mg of DHA, which helps support brain and eye development while you’re nursing your baby.
Things to Know: Some reviews comment that there is a strong fish smell and taste.
Price: $24
Mama Bird Postnatal
Mama Bird Postnatal Multi+ supports healthy immunity and neuro-development for babies during breastfeeding. This vitamin also promotes energy production and improves memory and brain processing speed due. We love the unique postnatal vitamin formula of probiotics, digestive enzymes, and superfoods which is designed to support you and your baby’s growing needs.
Things to Know: A few reports that these vitamins can cause Niacin flush response (red itchy, tingling rash on the face and joint that is harmless and can last 1-2 hours).
Price: $38
MegaFood Baby & Me 2 Postnatal Multivitamin
MegaFood Baby & Me 2 Postnatal Multivitamin is a doctor-formulated postnatal vitamin that supports optimal postnatal nutrition for new and nursing moms and babies. We love it because it includes choline and moringa leaf, which helps support milk production. It can also be taken at any time and on an empty stomach.
Things to Know: It does not contain any DHA.
Price: $37
Perelel Mom Multi Support Pack
Perelel Mom Multi Support Pack actually includes four supplements designed to support your total body health. Formulated by a panel of obstetricians and maternal-fetal medicine doctors these daily packs support you throughout motherhood. Each pack contains:
- a well-rounded multivitamin that covers your needs for nutrients like folate, B12, and zinc,
- an omega-3 DHA and EPA supplement to support your baby’s development and your mental health
- a biotin and collagen supplement to support your hair, skin, and nails, and
- a stress support blend, which is formulated to help manage occasional bouts of stress and anxiety.
Things to Know: This is a bit pricey and you have to take four pills instead of one.
Price: $50
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best vitamin for breastfeeding mothers?
The best vitamin for breastfeeding mothers is Ritual’s Essential Postnatal Multivitamin. It is formulated for mothers up to six months postpartum and throughout breastfeeding. I love that this multivitamin is designed to be easily absorbed and contains 15 nutrients to support the demands of breastfeeding.
Can I take postnatal vitamins while breastfeeding?
It is usually a good idea to take postnatal vitamins while breastfeeding to make sure you are getting all of the nutrients you need. You should speak with your care providers about what postnatal vitamins are the best fit for you.
What is the difference between postnatal and prenatal vitamins?
Postnatal vitamins share many core elements with prenatal vitamins, but some versions also account for concerns unique to the postpartum period. For example, postnatal vitamins may be designed to boost supply while breastfeeding or to help mothers recover from delivery. Many also address hormonal changes or sleep-wake rhythm shifts.
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