Do I need a Ca supplement?

Question

My son is allergic to dairy proteins so I am not eating dairy while I breastfeed him. I am 24 years of age and still taking prenatal vitamins. Should I be taking a Calcium supplement?

Answer 1

Unless you've substituted enriched soy milk or other sources of ca++ in your diet, you do need calcium suppplements 1500 mg./day while nursing. Your body has already used a lot of calcium during pregnancy. Most people even drinking or eating dairy have a difficult time getting that much from food sources alone.

Answer 2

Calcium supplements are a must for any woman of child bearing years whether you're allergic to diary products or not. Like Billie said, you should be getting enough in your prenatal, but do check out products such as soy milk, lactaid, etc. as they are a much better source than supplements. But regardless of what you do, please check with your doctor as you have a baby to think of here.

Answer 3

Please excuse this off-topic note, but I saw from an Answer you posted that you're concerned about your husband's health, due to his consumption of energy drinks. I don't suppose he's terribly excited about changing his habits, but I can highly recommend XS Energy Drink. It has no sugar or carbs and gets its energy from a megadose of Vitamin B12 (the body safely metabolizes any B12 it can't use) and a moderate amount of caffeine. The way I feel after drinking a can is the same way I feel after getting a couple good nights' sleep...no jitters. Oh, and it comes in 13 varieties (10 flavors, 3 caffeine-free alternatives). If you'd like, I'd be happy to refer you to my online supplier!

Answer 4

There should be sufficient calcium in the prenatal vitamins. If it is that would be sufficient calcium for you. If there isn't calcium in the vitamin then I would recommend adding a calcium supplement.

Answer 5

Call your doctor or your baby's doctor. This is something only a professional, that knows you and the baby's allergy, should answer. Congrats on your newest family member.