Treat Plugged Ducts With Sunflower Lecithin

Does lecithin help with clogged milk ducts? Yes, Lecithin has been used by breastfeeding mothers without any known contraindications and is often suggested for the treatment of recurrent plugged ducts.

lying down breastfeeding, breastfeeding lying down, nursing lying down
Lying down while breastfeeding.

What Does Sunflower Lecithin Do for Breastfeeding?

Lecithin supplements help make breast milk less thick and sticky, preventing clogging and improving milk production by making it easier to empty the breasts. It can increase the overall quantity and quality of milk produced.

Does Lecithin Help With Clogged Milk Ducts?

Yes, Lecithin has been used by breastfeeding mothers without any known contraindications and is often suggested for the treatment of recurrent plugged ducts.

Lecithin is a food additive, and it is found naturally in numerous foods.

How Does Lecithin Help Treat & Prevent Plugged Ducts?

As per Dr. Jack Newman’s explanation, “It may do this by decreasing the viscosity (stickiness) of the milk by increasing the percentage of polyunsaturated fatty acids in the milk. It is safe to take, relatively inexpensive, and seems to work in at least some mothers."

Sunflower lecithin, sunflower lecithin and breastfeeding
Giant Sunflower - Photo by Aaron Burden / Unsplash

Soy & Sunflower Lecithin Side Effects

Persons prone to depression should be monitored by a physician when taking high doses of lecithin or choline for clogged ducts.

Most times, blocked ducts will resolve within a few days; however, you are at a higher risk of mastitis when you develop clogged ducts. If you experience any flu-like symptoms or if the area is red or warm, see your doctor as soon as possible. Other symptoms of mastitis are discussed here.

  • If you often get plugged ducts, it would be a good idea to talk to your doctor about taking lecithin supplements. Also, try to see a lactation consultant who can assess your specific situation and advise how you could prevent plugged ducts in the future.
  • Always consult your doctor before taking any dietary supplements while breastfeeding.

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Soy vs. Sunflower Lecithin for Breastfeeding

Soy and sunflower lethicin effectively treat and prevent clogged ducts while breastfeeding. BUT, sunflower lecithin is usually made with fewer chemicals and is always cold pressed; it has 25% more Choline than soy and is high in manganese, magnesium, Vitamin B1, B6, Folate, and vitamin E. So overall, Sunflower Lecithin is a better product.

How Much Sunflower Lecithin to Use

The usual dosage for recurring plugged ducts is 3600 - 4800mg of Organic Sunflower Lecithin daily or 1200mg 3 to 4 times per day. The dosage can then be reduced to 1200mg twice daily as soon as the blockages have subsided for two weeks. After four weeks of no blockages, the mother can reduce her dosage by another 1200mg. A mother may need to continue to take one or two dosages per day as a preventative measure.

The maximum safe dosage of Lecithin is 50 grams per day, which makes the recommended amount for breastfeeding mothers less than 1/10 of the maximum dosage.

Lecithin is also found naturally in:

  • Soybeans
  • Whole grains
  • Brussel sprouts
  • Kidney beans
  • Peanuts
  • Meat (especially in liver)
  • Milk (also in breast milk)

Lecithin is also an additive in foods such as oils, chocolates, cookies, and many others.

1200mg Sunflower Lecithin

How Long Will Lecithin Take to Treat Plugged Ducts?

Most women see results within 24 - 48 hours.

The Following May trigger a Plugged Duct.

  • Not draining the breast well during feeding.
  • Dehydration. How much water should you be drinking?
  • Suck issues or tongue issues.
  • A blocked nipple pore.
  • Skipping feeds at night or waiting too long in-between feedings. Deviating from your pumping or feeding schedule and delaying a session can cause milk stasis. If you need to change your schedule, do so gradually, and your body will adapt accordingly.
  • An oversupply of breast milk.
  • A low immune system.
  • A breast pump that does not drain the milk sufficiently.
  • Abrupt weaning or breast refusal.
  • Any pressure on the breast, such as tight bras or clothing, a tight seat belt, or sleeping on your stomach.
  • Inflammation from an unresolved bout of mastitis can cause plugged ducts.

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