Can You Take Vitamin C While Breastfeeding?

 Krystal Duhaney Profile Photo
By Krystal Duhaney | Updated on Dec 3, 2023
Image for article Can You Take Vitamin C While Breastfeeding?

Absolutely, you can take vitamin C while breastfeeding! According to the National Institutes of Health1 , not only is it safe, but the recommended daily allowance for vitamin C is even slightly higher for breastfeeding parents.

But remember, everything in moderation. The body has a limit on how much vitamin C it can absorb at a time. A study in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition found that absorption decreases when intake is around 400 mg a day or higher. 

Don't forget that fruits and vegetables are great sources of vitamin C. Oranges, strawberries, bell peppers and many other foods are rich in this essential vitamin. 

Of course, even though vitamin C is generally safe, it's still wise to discuss any dietary changes or supplements with your healthcare provider.

Pregnant woman holding her stomach on a bed with a plant in the background

Want evidence-based health & wellness advice for fertility, pregnancy, and postpartum delivered to your inbox?

Your privacy is important to us. By subscribing you agree to our Privacy Policy and Terms & Conditions.

This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.

Expectful uses only high-quality sources, including academic research institutions, medical associations, and subject matter experts.

  1. National Institutes of Health"Vitamin C"https://ods.od.nih.gov/factsheets/VitaminC-HealthProfessional/#:~:text=Recommended%20Dietary%20Allowances%20(RDAs)%20for%20Vitamin%20C.


Share via
Updated on Dec 3, 2023

Related Articles


Get the Newsletter

Evidence-based health and wellness resources for fertility, pregnancy and postpartum.

Share via

Can You Take Vitamin C While Breastfeeding?

 Krystal Duhaney Profile Photo
By Krystal Duhaney | Updated on Dec 3, 2023
Image for article Can You Take Vitamin C While Breastfeeding?

Absolutely, you can take vitamin C while breastfeeding! According to the National Institutes of Health1 , not only is it safe, but the recommended daily allowance for vitamin C is even slightly higher for breastfeeding parents.

But remember, everything in moderation. The body has a limit on how much vitamin C it can absorb at a time. A study in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition found that absorption decreases when intake is around 400 mg a day or higher. 

Don't forget that fruits and vegetables are great sources of vitamin C. Oranges, strawberries, bell peppers and many other foods are rich in this essential vitamin. 

Of course, even though vitamin C is generally safe, it's still wise to discuss any dietary changes or supplements with your healthcare provider.

Pregnant woman holding her stomach on a bed with a plant in the background

Want evidence-based health & wellness advice for fertility, pregnancy, and postpartum delivered to your inbox?

Your privacy is important to us. By subscribing you agree to our Privacy Policy and Terms & Conditions.

This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.

Expectful uses only high-quality sources, including academic research institutions, medical associations, and subject matter experts.

  1. National Institutes of Health"Vitamin C"https://ods.od.nih.gov/factsheets/VitaminC-HealthProfessional/#:~:text=Recommended%20Dietary%20Allowances%20(RDAs)%20for%20Vitamin%20C.


Share via