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Hoodia and Breastfeeding
No studies have been conducted on the safety of hoodia and breastfeeding. Since it is not known whether the supplement passes through breast milk (or whether it is safe and effective in general), it is recommended that breastfeeding women avoid taking the drug. Each woman's situation is different, however, so be sure to talk to your healthcare provider about hoodia and breastfeeding in your situation.
It is not known if hoodia passes through breast milk or whether it is safe for use during breastfeeding. Importantly, it is also not known if hoodia is either safe or effective for use in general (no published studies have shown hoodia to be safe and effective for weight loss). Because there may be potential, unknown risks from using hoodia during breastfeeding (and since there is no clear established benefit from using hoodia), breastfeeding women should not take hoodia.
No research has been conducted on whether hoodia passes through breast milk. Importantly, 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 hoodia, which may be an appetite suppressant).
You should talk with your healthcare provider about hoodia 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 hoodia and breastfeeding in your particular situation.
Written by/reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD; Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD