Even before I learned exactly how negatively smoking affects breast milk I would become irritated when I saw a mom smoking. After reading what exactly happens to your breast milk when you smoke, I feel even worse for the babies getting "smokey milk". I realize everyone has their vices, but try to find one that isn't so harmful to your little bundle of joy. Alright, jumping off my soapbox and onto the cold hard facts!
When a breastfeeding mom smokes it:
- Limits the transfer of Vitamin A. Vitamin A is important for vision and immunity.
- Reduces the amount of Vitamin E found in breast milk. Vitamin E protects cells membranes from oxidation.
- Reduces the amount of Vitamin C fond in breast milk. Vitamin C is a very important antioxidant. It is required for at least 300 metabolic functions in the body including-tissue growth and repair, adrenal gland function, and healthy gums.
- Can interfere with milk let-down.
- Lower milk production
- Increase the risk for allergies, both prenatal and postnatal
All this being said, it is still better to breastfeed or formula, but please try to quit smoking if you do smoke. It will be one of the MANY sacrifices you will make for your child, and it is worth it.
