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Got a breastfeeding/ lactation question?

Write to: LC Doris Fok c/o Q&A Lactation, MotherNeeds, 141 Lentor Street, Singapore 786838, or fax us at 6456-0031, or email info@motherneeds.com with "Ask LC Doris" as your subject heading.

Doris will select 2 letters to be answered every month. Selected letters published here win a $12 gift certificate for purchases at our MotherNeeds online store.

Copyright © 2004

Doris Fok is the first International Board Certified Lactation Consultant (IBCLC) in Asia and Singapore. After setting up the KKH Lactation Services, Doris started her independent practice in 1998. She has worked with WHO and UNICEF, and various hospitals and international communities in the area of breastfeeding training and research. With over 25 years of clinical experience, and more importantly as a mother of two breastfed children, it is Doris' wish to help mothers achieve their natural ability to breastfeed successfully. Read more about Doris' breastfeeding experience and consultancy experience.

Question 1:
Dear Doris,
I have been exclusively breastfeeding my baby for the past 4 months. I feel exhausted everyday, and actually experienced some joint pain after childbirth (my delivery must have depleted me of my Calcium). Is it safe to take health supplements while I'm breastfeeding?
I heard that breastfeeding mothers need extra Calcium and Omega 3 supplementation for DHA. Is it safe to take these? Will it interfere with the quality of the breastmilk? Thanks.
Elin Lee

Answer 1:
Dear Elin,
If you've experienced joint pains, please see a doctor regarding the type of supplementation to use. Your joint pains need to be assessed first. Health supplements should be used only when needed. We always recommend taking natural food as it makes for better absorption. If your doctor has prescribed prenatal vitamins then continue with what he has prescribed.
Regards,
Doris Fok

Question 2:
Dear Doris,
I am currently breastfeeding my 6-month-old daughter. I have heard about astringent properties that can dry up breastmilk. How far does this truth hold? Besides herbs like sage, raspberry, thyme, and mint, what other vegetables, grains or other foods also have astringent. Do you know of any source of information (such as websites) that publishes the types of food with astringent properties? Thanks.
Celina.

Answer 2:
Dear Celina,
As far as herbs like sage, raspberry, thyme and mint, there are not many studies studying their properties and their effects on breastmilk. Mints are to be avoided during breastfeeding as it can cause digestive upsets in babies (Herbalism, an illustrated guide, pg. 72). Thyme is to be avoided during pregnancy. Sage is
supposed to dry up breastmilk. However, raspberry leaves drunk wtih fennel seeds as a tea is supposed to assist the retoning of the womb, to aid recovery and
to promote milk production and flow. I am not an expert on herbalism. If you prefer to take herbs, do check with a herbalist about the right amounts to take and the side effects to be expected.
Regards,
Doris Fok

*We regret that only 2 letters will be answered by Doris every month.

Neither the information nor any opinion expressed constitutes a medical consultation or prescription or treatment of a medical or health condition. This column is prepared for general viewing and is published for general information only. It does not have regard to the specific medical or health condition, and the particular needs of any specific person who may receive this information. Persons needing medical attention should seek advice from his/her healthcare practitioner regarding the appropriateness of information discussed or recommended in this column. Should you have a pressing question or issue concerning your medical or health condition, please consult your healthcare practitioner.

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