Evidence supporting the use of: Vitamin B12
For the health condition: Nursing

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Synopsis

Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 4

Vitamin B12 (cobalamin) is scientifically validated as important during the nursing (lactation) period, both for maternal health and for the development of the breastfed infant. During lactation, maternal B12 requirements are increased to ensure sufficient secretion into breast milk. Adequate B12 intake is crucial because infants depend on maternal stores and dietary intake for their B12 supply, especially in the first year of life. Deficiency in nursing mothers, particularly those following vegetarian or vegan diets, can lead to low levels of B12 in breast milk, which increases the risk of deficiency in the infant. This can result in serious neurological and developmental issues for the child, such as growth failure, developmental delays, and anemia.

Scientific evidence supporting B12 supplementation during nursing is robust, especially for at-risk populations. The Institute of Medicine and other health organizations recommend increased B12 intake for lactating women. Clinical studies and case reports have documented that supplementation in deficient mothers restores normal B12 levels in breast milk and prevents deficiency symptoms in infants. Blood and milk B12 levels are routinely used as markers to assess maternal and infant status. While supplementation is not needed for all nursing women, it is medically indicated and effective for those with inadequate dietary intake or absorption issues. Therefore, the use of vitamin B12 to support nursing is justified by strong scientific evidence, particularly in populations at risk for deficiency.

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