Is natural detox cleanse safe for breastfeeding?

Many new mothers are eager to get back in shape and lose the extra baby weight after giving birth. Detox cleanses that promise quick weight loss and a reset for your body may seem appealing. However, experts caution breastfeeding moms against doing a full detox cleanse, as it could negatively impact milk supply and quality.

How detox cleanses work

Detox cleanses typically involve restricting calories or certain food groups for a period of time. Some cleanses are juice-only fasts, while others replace meals with prepackaged shakes, teas or supplements. The goal is to give your body’s digestive system a break while flooding it with extra fluids, vitamins and minerals.

Advocates claim that detoxing can help you lose weight quickly, eliminate toxins and improve energy levels. However, there is little scientific evidence that commercial cleanses actually remove toxins from the body. Your liver and kidneys already work hard to filter out potentially harmful substances every day.

Potential risks of detoxing while breastfeeding

While many natural detox cleanses may seem harmless on the surface, they can disrupt the delicate balance of nutrients required by a breastfeeding mom. Here are some potential risks:

Decreased milk supply

Any rapid or severe calorie restriction can impact milk production, which requires an extra 500 calories per day. Consuming too few calories, minimal protein or inadequate hydration could cause your supply to plummet.

Lower nutrient levels in breastmilk

Nutrient deficiencies are possible if you exclude certain food groups like dairy, meat, fish, eggs, grains or vegetables during a cleanse. This can lower protein, calcium, iodine and other essential nutrient levels in your breastmilk.

Potential toxin release

Rapid weight loss from extreme calorie restriction may cause toxins stored in fat cells to be released into the bloodstream. These released toxins could make their way into breastmilk.

Increased risk of dehydration or malnutrition

Strict cleanses provide minimal calories and fluids, making dehydration and vitamin/mineral deficiencies more likely, particularly with prolonged use.

Medication interactions

Herbal supplements and teas included in cleanse kits may interact with medications or other herbs you are consuming.

Maternal weight loss

Losing weight rapidly could be harmful if you are already at a normal BMI, as it’s difficult to achieve adequate nutrition for milk production.

Safer alternatives for breastfeeding moms

Instead of a commercial cleanse, aim for gradual weight loss of 1 pound per week with a balanced diet and exercise. Here are some safer ways to get back in shape while ensuring your breastmilk remains nutrient-rich:

• Eat plenty of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean protein and healthy fats.
• Stay hydrated by drinking water, milk or unsweetened drinks.
• Take a daily prenatal vitamin with iron to cover any nutritional gaps.
• Exercise more – start slow and aim for 150 minutes per week of moderate activity.
• Reduce empty calorie foods like sugary desserts, fried foods, processed snacks and alcohol.
• Focus on getting adequate protein, calcium, omega-3s and iodine from food sources.
• Try smoothies made with milk, yogurt, greens, or a daily probiotic supplement.
• Drink herbal teas like dandelion, fennel or ginger to support digestion.
• Get more sleep when possible to reduce stress levels.

Foods to include and avoid while breastfeeding

Making smart food choices can help you lose weight steadily without sacrificing the nutritional value of your milk. Here are some do’s and don’ts:

Foods to Include	Foods to Avoid or Limit
Lean meat, poultry, fish, eggs Legumes, nuts, seeds Whole grains like oats, brown rice, quinoa Fruits and vegetables Low-fat dairy products Healthy fats like olive oil, avocado	Processed foods, fast food Fried foods, junk food Added sugars, sweets Artificial sweeteners Too much caffeine Alcohol

Tips for starting a detox or cleanse while breastfeeding

If you want to do a mild detox, proceed with extreme caution and consult your doctor first. Here are some tips to minimize risk:

• Wait at least 3-4 months postpartum so breastfeeding is well established.
• Go for a short cleanse of 1-2 days max to limit exposure.
• Closely monitor supply and baby’s output/behavior for changes.
• Drink plenty of fluids like water, milk and broth.
• Include protein shakes or smoothies if allowed.
• Don’t cut calories – eat enough to feel satisfied.
• Stop immediately if you notice supply issues.
• Avoid any questionable ingredients, laxatives or diuretics.
• Never detox while pregnant or before becoming pregnant.

Discuss milk-boosting options like fenugreek or lactation cookies with your doctor in case of any drops in supply. Avoid herbal supplements and consult an IBCLC to assess lactation adequacy.

The bottom line on detoxing while breastfeeding

Most health experts advise against doing a full detox or restrictive cleanse while breastfeeding. The potential risks outweigh any proposed benefits.

Focus on eating a balanced diet, managing stress levels, staying active and getting enough sleep instead. Aim to lose weight gradually after your milk supply is established, about 3-6 months postpartum.

While a short, mild cleanse may be possible after checking with your doctor, take precautions and be ready to stop at the first sign of low supply. Pay close attention to your body and your baby’s needs above all else.

Making healthy lifestyle choices – not extreme diets – is the safest way for breastfeeding moms to return to their pre-pregnancy weight. Be patient, drink to thirst and nourish your body with a wide range of whole foods for the best detox.