Celery Juice with Breastfeeding - Risks and Benefits

Celery juice is very popular for its health benefits, but can you drink celery juice while breastfeeding? Lactating mothers often ponder this as they only want the best for their babies. And we're here to help!

This blog will discuss what it means to have celery juice as a breastfeeding mother. By discussing everything from the benefits of celery juice for a nursing mother to how to make it, you'll be able to make an informed choice.

Can you drink celery juice while breastfeeding?

Yes, celery juice is generally agreed upon to be a phenomenal drink for breastfeeding mothers. Not only is it great for postpartum moms, but it also transfers many essential nutrients to your child through breast milk.

Because most of the plant fibre of the celery has been removed, celery juice has more nutritional value than a regular stalk. An average glass of celery juice (240 ml) provides the following nutrients:

• Calories: 42.5
• Protein: 2 grams
• Carbs: 9.5 grams
• Sugar: 5 grams
• Calcium: 8% of the Daily Value (DV)
• Magnesium: 7% of the DV
• Phosphorus: 5% of the DV
• Potassium: 14% of the DV
• Sodium: 9% of the DV
• Vitamin A: 7% of the DV
• Vitamin C: 16% of the DV
• Vitamin K: 74% of the DV

It also packs many other nutrients such as zinc, copper, biotin, folate, B vitamins and many antioxidants.

Nutritional benefits of celery juice

Because of the many nutrients contained within a single cup, celery juice, while breastfeeding, has many benefits. They are,

Hydrating

Since celery juice is made primarily of water, it is an excellent source of hydration. Proper hydration is essential for breastfeeding mothers to maintain their milk supply, support their own health, and avoid dehydration.

Low in sugar

Celery juice is naturally low in sugar, automatically making it a better option than sugary drinks. It is a great option for those looking to manage their sugar intake while maintaining a balanced diet. This can be particularly important for breastfeeding mothers concerned about blood sugar levels.

Anti-inflammatory 

Celery contains compounds like polyacetylene and luteolin, which have anti-inflammatory properties. Reduced inflammation can benefit both the mother and the baby, as inflammation is associated with various health issues and discomforts.

Promotes digestive health 

The natural fibre found in celery is beneficial for digestive health. Drinking celery juice while breastfeeding can help alleviate common postpartum digestive issues, such as constipation and indigestion, which some nursing mothers may experience. A healthy digestive system is very important to a mother's overall well-being and comfort.

Impact of celery juice on milk supply

Many anecdotal evidence and success stories of other lactating mothers suggest that drinking celery juice while breastfeeding boosts milk production. However, more scientific research has yet to be done to either support or disprove this theory. 

Celery juice is often considered to possess galactagogue properties, which are substances that can potentially stimulate or increase milk production. This belief is based on the hydrating nature of celery juice, as proper hydration is essential for maintaining milk supply. Celery also boasts a nutrient-rich composition, which could provide lactating mothers with the necessary vitamins and minerals.

Potential risks of celery juice while breastfeeding

While celery juice is very beneficial for breastfeeding mothers, unfortunately, there are some risks. The possible risks of drinking celery juice while breastfeeding are, 

Allergies

While allergies to celery are relatively rare, they can occur in mothers who have known allergies to celery or similar foods. Consuming celery juice while breastfeeding could lead to potentially severe allergic reactions. In extreme cases, these reactions could include skin rashes, hives, itching, swelling, or even anaphylaxis. 

If a mother suspects she has a celery allergy, avoiding celery juice is essential. One should also monitor her baby for any signs of allergic reactions, as allergens can pass through breast milk. 

Dilution

Celery juice can be quite strong and cause gastrointestinal discomfort for some mothers, particularly if it is consumed excessively. Digestive issues that might arise include bloating, gas and diarrhoea. 

To reduce the risk of gastrointestinal discomfort, try diluting celery juice with water to make it easy to digest and gentler on the stomach for breastfeeding mothers. Moderation is key when incorporating celery juice into your diet while breastfeeding.

Pesticide Residues

Celery is listed among the vegetables in the "Dirty Dozen", which refers to produce with potentially higher pesticide rates. Being exposed to pesticides can have a very adverse effect on health, especially that of pregnant and breastfeeding mothers. 

Mothers can opt for organic celery to reduce the risk of being exposed to pesticide residues. This is cultivated with fewer synthetic pesticides and chemicals, minimizing any risk to the health of the nursing mother and her baby. Thus, choosing organic celery can be a safe alternative for mothers concerned about pesticide exposure when they drink celery juice while breastfeeding. An organically cultivated option is great for any fresh produce you consume while breastfeeding.

How to make celery juice?

If you want to drink celery juice while breastfeeding, don't worry, it's quite simple. Here is the straightforward process of adding it to your hectic daily routine as a mother. 

Select Fresh Celery

Choose organic celery whenever possible to minimize the risk of exposure to pesticide residues. Rinse the celery thoroughly under running water.

Cut and Prep

Remove any leaves and cut the celery into smaller pieces, making it easier for your juicer to process.

Use a Juicer

Invest in a good quality juicer, as a blender may not yield the same smooth, juice-like consistency. Feed the celery through the juicer to extract the liquid.

Dilute (Optional)

If you find the taste or concentration too strong, you can dilute the juice with water to suit your preference.

Enjoy!

Sip the celery juice at any time of the day. A popular myth is to drink celery juice on an empty stomach to absorb all the nutrients and "detoxify the body". But, there is no scientific backing to this claim, and it can cause stomach discomfort when doing so. Thus, having it on a partially full stomach is generally recommended.

Takeaway Point

While celery juice may offer many benefits for the breastfeeding mother and her child, it should not be considered a miracle solution for increasing milk supply. If you choose to include celery juice in your diet, be moderate about it. Be aware of the safety considerations and be attentive to your body's response to it. Ultimately, the answer to the question "Can you drink celery juice while breastfeeding?" is "Yes", but with caution, as every mother and her needs are unique.