Breastfeeding FAQs

Why do I need to take a supplement while nursing?
The nutritional needs of breastfeeding women are similar to those of pregnant women.  As a result, many obstetricians recommend that nursing mothers continue to take a vitamin and mineral supplement for as long as they breastfeed. This ensures that the nursing mom takes in sufficient quantities of all the vitamins and minerals necessary to keep her healthy and to produce nutritious breast milk.

Read more about the benefits of vitamin supplements for breastfeeding women >>

What is a galactogogue?
A galactogogue is a substance that promotes lactation. Nursing Blend contains several herbs that have been used traditionally as galactogogues, including fenugreek, fennel, anise and vervain.

How can I be assured of quality?
Nursing Blend and Nursing Postnatal are endorsed by lactation expert, Dr. Kathleen Marinelli, MD. Both products are manufactured in the United States in a top-tier, GMP-certified facility. Nursing Blend and Nursing Postnatal are guaranteed for quality and potency.

Should I keep Nursing Blend and Nursing Postnatal out of the reach of children?
Yes. All dietary supplements and vitamins should be kept out of the reach of children. Accidental overdose of iron-containing products is a leading cause of fatal poisoning in children. In case of accidental overdose, call a doctor or poison control center immediately. Keep out of the reach of children.

Are the herbs and seeds in Nursing Blend safe for my baby?
Nursing Blend contains fenugreek, fennel seed, coriander seed, anise seed, chamomile, and vervain. All of these herbs have a long history of use for culinary and medicinal purposes and are believed to be safe for consumption by people of all ages.

What is the recommended dosage of Nursing Blend or Nursing Postnatal?
As a dietary supplement, take 2 capsules daily.

Who is Dr. Marinelli?
Dr. Kathleen Marinelli, MD is a leading lactation expert and breastfeeding advocate. She is currently an Associate Professor of Pediatrics at the University of Connecticut School of Medicine, and is a neonatologist and Director of Lactation Support Services at Connecticut Children’s Medical Center in Hartford, CT.

Does my breast-fed baby need a supplement?
Pediatricians now recommend that all infants receive 400 IU of Vitamin D each day, to prevent the bone weakening disease called rickets. Because breast milk can be low in Vitamin D (compared with infant formula), breast fed infants should be given a liquid Vitamin D supplement each day beginning at birth.

How long should I breast feed my baby?
Of course, breastfeeding is a personal choice, and it is not necessarily for everyone. However, in recognition of the tremendous benefits of breastfeeding to both moms and infants, the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) now recommends that infants be fed only breast milk (no water, formula, other liquids or solids) for about the first 6 months of life. For the next six months, the AAP recommends that mothers continue to breastfeed while solid foods are introduced, and breastfeeding after 12 months should continue as long as mother and baby desire. However, it is important to remember that any amount of breastfeeding is better than none.

Where can I find out more information about breastfeeding?
A quick search on the Internet produces hundreds of websites with valuable information, tips and resources for breastfeeding moms. A great place to start is www.llli.org, the official website of La Leche League, the internationally-recognized leader in breastfeeding awareness and promotion.

Where can I connect with other nursing moms for support and advice?
Join the community of nursing  moms at Breastmilk.com.  At Breastmilk.com you will find information to help you optimize your breastfeeding experience and the support you need when nursing becomes a challenge.