Mamas, we know you’re pouring so much love into feeding and caring for your little one, but don’t forget to care for yourself, too! Eating a balanced diet with the right vitamins helps you feel your best so you can continue giving your baby the care they deserve.
Sign You May Be Missing Key Vitamins:
Vitamin B12:
Vitamin B12 supports nerve function and red blood cell production. Mothers following vegan or vegetarian diets should be mindful of B12 intake, as it’s mainly found in animal products like meat, fish, eggs, and dairy.
Symptoms of B12 Deficiency
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Fatigue or tiredness
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Pale skin
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Numbness or tingling in your hands and feet
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Mood changes
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Loss of appetite or weight
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Nausea
Vitamin C:
Vitamin C, commonly found in citrus fruits such as oranges, kiwis, and lemons, is essential for immune function, collagen formation, antioxidant protection, and iron absorption. Ensuring your diet consists of adequate vitamin C is important to keep both you and your baby healthy.
Symptoms of low Vitamin C:
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Fatigue or weakness
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Rough, dry, bumpy skin
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Slow wound healing
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Immune weakness or increased susceptibility to colds or infections
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Iron deficiency or anemia
Vitamin A: Vitamin A is essential for vision, immune function, and cell growth. Breastfeeding mothers require sufficient vitamin A levels to help support infant growth and immune development.
Symptoms of low Vitamin A:
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Vision problem or increased sensitivity to light
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Dry skin and hair
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Weakened immune system
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Fatigue and weakness
Overall:
If you notice any of these symptoms, talk to your healthcare provider or consider testing your breast milk to check nutrient levels. Ensuring adequate vitamins helps you stay healthy while giving your baby the best start in life
Sources:
Office of Dietary Supplements - Vitamin A and carotenoids. (n.d.). https://ods.od.nih.gov/factsheets/VitaminA-Consumer/
Office of Dietary Supplements - Vitamin C. (n.d.). https://ods.od.nih.gov/factsheets/VitaminC-HealthProfessional/
Vitamin B12 deficiency. (2025, October 6). Cleveland Clinic. https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/22831-vitamin-b12-deficiency
