Is It Safe To Use Alpha Lipoic Acid When Nursing?

You have alpha lipoic acid in every cell in your body, and the substance helps your body turn glucose into energy. Alpha lipoic acid can also be manufactured synthetically and administered orally or through an injection for certain medical and health reasons. If you take synthetic alpha lipoic acid and are also planning to breastfeed your baby, speak with your doctor to discuss the risks and benefits the substance may have for you and your little one.

Alpha Lipoic Acid

Alpha lipoic acid is an antioxidant that is manufactured by your body. This antioxidant may help destroy free radicals that can lead to chronic medical conditions and make it more difficult for your body to fight off infections. Alpha lipoic acid is soluble in both fat and water, so it may help protect the function of other antioxidants as well, the University of Maryland Medical Center reports.

Uses

Alpha lipoic acid is used as an antioxidant to help treat diabetes. The substance has the power to help lower your blood sugar levels. Alpha lipoic acid may also help ease the pain, tingling, numbness, burning and itching that is often associated with diabetes-related nerve damage. The antioxidant is also used as a treatment for the complications of HIV. Alpha lipoic acid may also be useful in treating liver disease caused by alcohol use and for protecting your brain from stroke and damage. Cancer is an additional medical condition that may be treated with alpha lipoic acid.

Breastfeeding

When you nurse your baby, certain nutrients, substances, supplements and medications can be passed to your baby through your breast milk. It is important to let your doctor know what you take so that you are not putting your infant in danger. The University of Maryland Medical Center reports that there is no evidence that suggests that taking alpha lipoic acid while breastfeeding is safe. Because no definitive evidence exists, you should avoid taking alpha lipoic acid while nursing.

Tips

Robert Rountree, author of "The New Breastfeeding Diet Plan," reports that alpha-lipoic acid supplements do not stay in your body for long periods of time unless you take a time-released formula. If your doctor decides that the benefits of alpha lipoic acid outweigh the risks, talk to him about taking a version that is not time-released. Schedule your baby's nursing sessions to occur just before taking the supplement so your baby is exposed to the least amount possible.