One of the most common questions we get asked is whether or not our supplements are safe for pregnant or breastfeeding women.
Most supplements have not been tested on pregnant or breastfeeding mothers. There isn’t sufficient data to validate the safety of a supplement on a fetus or infant due to it being unethical to test products on pregnant and lactating women.
When it comes to supplementation, there are a few vitamins and minerals that do appear to be beneficial for a growing baby. Vitamin C, Vitamin D, Calcium, Folate, and Fish oil (DHA) in particular. There are some cases where women may need to supplement. These include women with nutrient deficiencies. For example, having a shortage of folate can cause birth defects. Since most prenatal vitamins contain folate, many women like the reassurance of taking one during pregnancy and breastfeeding. In addition, women with dietary restrictions like vegans or those who don’t consume dairy, may need to supplement with vitamin B12, calcium and DHA. Those pregnant with multiple babies may need to take in more nutrients to supply both the babies and herself!
Important to note herbs like yohimbe, goldenseal, saw palmetto, wormwood yarrow, tansy, blue cohosh, and ephedra among others should be avoided. When choosing formulas for Protea Stress Defy and Baseline supplements, the focus was on a non-pregnant and non-lactating woman. The choice was made due to the lack of information on effects of any and/or all herb and vitamins on unborn fetuses.
However, in the case of lactating women, some research around the concentration of certain herbs transferred in breast milk does exist. The herbs used in the Stress Defy and Baseline supplements have either been deemed negligible in milk samples, or they simply have not been tested.
Amongst our Protea Collective team, we have had many affiliates, trainers, and customers who are currently breastfeeding and taking our herbal products such as Baseline+ and Stress Defy. But it has to be a personal choice and comfort level of the woman based on current research and comfortability.
That said, Protea does NOT claim to be “safe” for breastfeeding and lactating mothers. The list of ingredients are clearly stated on each product’s label which places the due diligence on the woman. With that being said, due to the fact that we do not use artificial colors, preservatives, proprietary blends, or additives/fillers, many physicians approve our protein, vegan aminos and GI Assist in pregnancy and breastfeeding.*
The contents of this blog should not be taken as medical advice. It is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any health problem-nor is it intended to replace the advice of a physician. Always consult your physician or qualified health professional on any matters regarding your health. These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.
