Are there special diet recommendations for breastfeeding mothers who are vegetarian or vegan?
Breastfed infants of women who do not consume any animal products may have very limited amounts of vitamin B12 in their bodies. These low amounts of vitamin B12 can put their infants at risk of vitamin B12 deficiency, which can result in neurological damage. Iron may also be of concern as plant source foods only contain non-heme iron, which is less bioavailable than heme iron. The American Dietetic Association recommends vitamin B12 supplementation during pregnancy and while breastfeeding for mothers who eat vegan or vegetarian diets. Some might also need supplementation of iron and other nutrients such as choline, zinc, iodine, or omega-3 fats (EPA/DHA). (Source: CDC)