Glucomannan and Breastfeeding

No studies have been conducted on the safety of glucomannan and breastfeeding. Because it is not known whether the supplement passes through breast milk, it is recommended that women who are breastfeeding avoid taking glucomannan. However, because glucomannan is not absorbed from the digestive tract into the rest of the body, it is very unlikely that it would pass through breast milk.

 

An Overview of Glucomannan and Breastfeeding

It is not known if glucomannan is safe for use in women who are breastfeeding. Because there may be potential, unknown risks from using glucomannan when breastfeeding, you should first check with your healthcare provider before taking glucomannan.
 

Glucomannan and Breastfeeding: What Does the Research Say?

No research has been done to see if glucomannan passes through breast milk. However, it is very unlikely to pass through breast milk, as glucomannan is a fiber that is not absorbed from the digestive tract into the rest of the body. Because it stays in the digestive tract, it probably cannot pass through breast milk.
 
There is some evidence that glucomannan can help people lose weight. However, it's important to remember that breastfeeding is a time of increased caloric need for women. It is not the best time to be dieting. A healthy and balanced diet is recommended, not a low-calorie diet (which might result from taking glucomannan).
 

Talking With Your Healthcare Provider About Glucomannan and Breastfeeding

You should talk with your healthcare provider about glucomannan and breastfeeding. Each woman's situation is different, and you and your healthcare provider understand your situation best. After considering what you want and expect, as well as your current health situation, you and your healthcare provider can make a shared decision about glucomannan and breastfeeding in your particular situation.
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Written by/reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD; Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD;