Traditional Beliefs vs. Scientific Evidence on Cinnamon
For centuries, certain spices have been used in various cultures to aid postpartum recovery and support lactation. Cinnamon is among these, with anecdotal and Ayurvedic traditions suggesting it can help increase the 'flow' of mother's milk and provide other postpartum benefits. This has led many breastfeeding mothers to wonder, can cinnamon affect breast milk supply in a meaningful way? The answer is nuanced, distinguishing between culinary use and therapeutic supplementation, as modern scientific evidence does not support its role as a powerful galactagogue. The most effective ways to increase milk supply remain frequent feeding and proper breastfeeding management.
The Critical Difference Between Ceylon and Cassia Cinnamon
When considering cinnamon for any health purpose, it is crucial to understand the difference between the two main types: Ceylon and Cassia. This distinction is especially important for nursing mothers due to a chemical compound found in Cassia cinnamon.
- Cassia Cinnamon (Cinnamomum cassia): This is the most common and inexpensive type of cinnamon sold in North America. Cassia contains a high concentration of coumarin, a naturally occurring substance that can be harmful to the liver in large doses. While the amount of coumarin from typical food seasoning is likely harmless for most, high intake from supplements or frequent, heavy use of Cassia is not recommended for anyone, including nursing mothers.
- Ceylon Cinnamon (Cinnamomum verum): Often called "true cinnamon," this type is more expensive and comes from Sri Lanka. Ceylon cinnamon contains significantly lower levels of coumarin, making it a safer option for those who wish to consume it more regularly or in slightly larger quantities.
Because of the potential for liver toxicity associated with high coumarin intake, breastfeeding mothers should exercise caution and ensure they are using Ceylon cinnamon if they choose to consume amounts beyond normal food use. It is always wise to consult a healthcare provider or a lactation consultant before considering supplements.
Lack of Scientific Evidence for Lactation Support
Despite its long history of traditional use, there is a distinct lack of scientific studies demonstrating that cinnamon significantly increases breast milk supply in humans. The LactMed® database, a reliable source on drugs and lactation, confirms that no scientific studies evaluate the effect of cinnamon on milk supply. Claims that it boosts milk are primarily based on historical use and folklore, not on rigorous clinical trials. The most reliable method to increase milk production is based on the principle of supply and demand: the more milk that is removed from the breast, the more the body is signaled to produce.
Table: Cassia vs. Ceylon Cinnamon for Breastfeeding
| Feature | Cassia Cinnamon | Ceylon Cinnamon |
|---|---|---|
| Availability | Widely available, most common in grocery stores | Less common, found in specialty stores or online |
| Coumarin Content | High concentration, especially in bark | Very low concentration |
| Appearance | Thicker, rougher sticks with a darker, reddish-brown color | Softer, rolled-up, multi-layered sticks with a lighter tan color |
| Flavor | Stronger, more pungent flavor | Milder, sweeter, and more delicate flavor |
| Safety in High Doses | Potential for liver toxicity with high intake | Significantly safer due to low coumarin content |
Other Herbs and Spices for Lactation
While cinnamon's role as a galactagogue is unsubstantiated, some herbs and spices have more supporting evidence (though still often anecdotal or requiring more research) for their use in boosting milk supply. However, like any supplement, they should be used with caution and after consulting a healthcare professional.
- Fenugreek: One of the most popular herbal supplements for lactation, believed to contain phytoestrogens that can help with milk production.
- Fennel: A flowering plant with estrogen-like properties that is also used to stimulate milk production.
- Cumin: An integral part of many cuisines, cumin seeds are traditionally used to stimulate milk production and aid digestion.
- Shatavari: An Ayurvedic herb used for centuries to address insufficient milk supply.
- Moringa: Rich in nutrients and known for its anti-diabetic properties, it is sometimes used as a galactagogue, particularly in cases of PCOS.
Safe Use and When to Seek Help
For most breastfeeding mothers, consuming cinnamon in normal culinary amounts—such as a sprinkle on oatmeal or in a recipe—is perfectly safe. The small amounts transferred to breast milk are unlikely to cause any issues for the baby, though some infants might experience slight fussiness or a rash if they are sensitive.
However, it's essential to follow some safety guidelines:
- Moderate Consumption: Stick to small, food-level amounts. Avoid taking concentrated forms like supplements, teas, or extracts in medicinal doses without medical supervision.
- Choose Ceylon: If you plan to consume cinnamon more frequently, opt for Ceylon cinnamon to minimize coumarin intake and potential liver risk.
- Monitor Your Infant: Watch for any signs of reaction in your baby, such as fussiness, rash, or changes in stool. While rare, it's always best to be observant.
- Focus on Proven Methods: If you are genuinely concerned about your milk supply, the most effective step is to consult a lactation consultant or your healthcare provider. They can help identify the root cause of the issue and provide evidence-based solutions, including improving latch and increasing feeding frequency.
For additional authoritative information on drugs and lactation, consider visiting the National Library of Medicine's LactMed® database.
Conclusion
To answer the question, "Can cinnamon affect breast milk supply?", the current scientific consensus suggests that while it has a history of traditional use, there is no solid evidence to prove it is an effective galactagogue. Consuming cinnamon in normal food quantities is generally safe for breastfeeding mothers. However, relying on it as a treatment for low milk supply is not supported by data and may carry risks, particularly if large doses of high-coumarin Cassia cinnamon are used. For real and lasting changes in milk supply, it is best to focus on proven methods like consistent nursing or pumping and to seek professional advice from a lactation consultant or healthcare provider.
