AI = Adequate intake (AI) is the recommended average daily intake level of apparently healthy people. It is used when an RDA cannot be determined (5).

Sources: U.S. Department of Agriculture (6) and Oregon State University (7)

Besides the nutrients mentioned above, turmeric is also considered as a good source of the omega-3 fatty acid, linolenic acid, and certain bioactive compounds. All these components give turmeric the potential to provide some health benefits that are worth a check.

 Health Benefits Of Turmeric While Breastfeeding

There are several suggested health benefits of turmeric. However, not all of them are backed by scientific evidence. Below is a list of scientifically-backed health benefits of turmeric.

1. Immunity: Curcumin is the yellow-orange bioactive compound found in turmeric. The substance has long been associated with medicinal properties that help boost immunity and fight mild infections, like sore throat (8). Curcumin’s true potential has now been realized by modern medicine. Various studies show that curcumin has immunomodulatory, anti-proliferative, and antimicrobial properties that could support the treatment of chronic diseases and mild infections (9). Turmeric also contains other valuable nutrients that can help boost immunity.

2. Digestive health: Studies show that curcumin holds pharmacological properties that could prove useful in treating various digestive disorders. Some of the common digestive issues that women face postpartum are constipation, flatulence, and gastric reflux. For all these digestive concerns, turmeric has proven its possible effectiveness (10) (11). In fact, some studies have found that the use of turmeric can potentially protect the GI system through its anti-inflammatory effects (12).

3. Mental health: Postpartum depression can occur due to a combination of mental and physical factors (13). Research in the field of psychoneuroimmunology (PNI) reveals that depression is associated with inflammation. Thus, PNI suggests the use of anti-inflammatory products that could help reduce inflammation. Turmeric has strong anti-inflammatory properties that could prove useful in enhancing your mood and helping fight postpartum depression (14) (15). Curcumin increases DHA in the brain and helps reduce anxiety (16).

4. Inflammation: Some women experience joint and back pains after pregnancy. One of the reasons is inflammation and is most commonly known as inflammatory arthritis (17). Curcumin has a strong anti-inflammatory activity, which could provide symptomatic relief from joint and back pains (18).

5. Antioxidant effects: Curcumin is characterized by its high antioxidant activity, which is comparable to vitamin C and is more than ten times higher than the activity of the vitamin E. The strong antioxidant profile of the compound could help mitigate the effects of oxidative damage on the body (10).

6. Cholesterol management: The levels of cholesterol and triglycerides increase during pregnancy as they are crucial for the growth and development of the fetus and the production of hormones (19). These lipid levels decrease postpartum. However, sometimes the cholesterol levels do not go back to normal, leading to health problems. Turmeric is often seen as a natural remedy to regulate cholesterol levels. A research study demonstrated that turmeric extract could help reduce the synthesis of cholesterol and triglycerides (20) (21).

7. General benefits: Curcuminoids in turmeric possess antioxidant, analgesic, anti-inflammatory, antiseptic, anticarcinogenic, chemopreventive, antiviral, antibacterial, antifungal, and antiplatelet activity (22). Thus, daily intake of turmeric with a regular diet can help in the long run.

Turmeric is a healthy addition to your diet. However, its effectiveness can only be assured when it is selected and stored right. If you have been using turmeric before pregnancy and during, then you can continue to do so. Do not add a new element just because you are breastfeeding.

Selection And Storage Of Turmeric

Turmeric is available in two forms – dried rhizome and turmeric powder. There are some other products like essential oil, curry powder, and oleoresins that are derived from either of these forms (23). You can purchase any of these products as per your preference and requirement. But while you purchase, make sure that you buy good quality or organic products from a reputable store.

Out of the various turmeric types available worldwide, Indian turmeric is considered the best due to its high quality and dense constitution of important bioactive compounds.

Once purchased, turmeric should be stored in an airtight container and away from direct sunlight. This is crucial as turmeric contains curcuminoids, the color constituents of turmeric that deteriorate with light. This impacts not only the color but also certain pharmacological properties.

Ways To Add Tumeric In The Diet

Turmeric can be added to any dish. You can add it to milk, soups, salads, and curries. You can also use turmeric as one of the ingredients to tenderize meat. It can also be added to canned broths and pickles as a preservative.
However, the quantity must be kept in control as the flavor of the spice could be overpowering.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can turmeric reduce or decrease milk supply?

In some cultures, turmeric is considered a potential galactagogue. However, there is no scientific evidence to support this belief. Likewise, there is no scientific proof that turmeric consumption decreases milk supply.

2. Can I take turmeric supplements while breastfeeding?

Turmeric supplements generally are not regulated by the FDA. The manufacturers are responsible for ensuring the safety of these supplements. Also, these supplements can have multiple ingredients that may or may not be listed on the pack. It is best to avoid supplements while breastfeeding unless approved by your doctor.

Adding turmeric to your diet is safe however have it in moderation as a food additive. Its medicinal properties will help you in recovery.

Do you have something to share about the consumption of turmeric while breastfeeding? Let us know in the comment section below.