Tonic

[Joe1]

I am currently breastfeeding my nearly 5 month old dd. All is going really well, no solids yet either, however, I have had a couple of nasty colds in the past few months and feel that I could do with a pick me up tonic of some sort. Does anybody know of anything I could take while feeding. I am not tired as such like lack of sleep tired just lacking abit on the energy side.

Bron, someone recommended me to take it too but thought I couldnt so an answer from someone in the know would be good.

I was recommended a tonic called Floradix by the Holland & Barrett lady when I was breastfeeding dd2. It's quite expensive (about £6?) but it really seemed to do the trick. Not their own brand - I have seen it in other shops too. Good luck!

I agree with nmd Floradix is the thing!!! I have used at different points in my life when I am feeling low/worn out. It really works whilst you are breast feeding!!! It does taste gross when you first try it, but you soon get used to it, and I think it also comes in tablet form. Hope all goes well!

Yup - Floraix. Unlike other "pick you up" tonics, does not contain caffeine, but does contain iron (if I remember rightly. Ask your Chemist, and they will order it in for you if you don't have a handy health food shop nearby.

Another top tip from a breastfeeding friend of mine, was that although you are always encouraged to cram in the carbs when breastfeeding - protein is of upmost importance. The carbs might give you the energy, and the protein will ensure your milk stays good (as supply can take a dive when you're under the weather - I know mine did!!)

Thanks everyone, this cold has really taken its toll today, been sick and just feel totally crap. My dh went to Boots today but they told him they could not recommend anything as I was bf and said I was best going to the doctors. After nagging from all angles I have made an appointment with my doctor for Monday. The thing is I suppose I am giving everything to my dd. I am going to get some Floradix in the meantime and hope I feel better soon, cant take this much longer. I think I could do with a check over from the doc too.

Yup, Floradix is the one, but also sepia - if you believe in homoeopathy is good for feelings of being dragged down. Good luck.

Thanks again everyone, quick update. Went to docs last night as an emergency appointment as I kept being sick during the day and he has prescribed antibiotics, anti sick tablets and paracetamol for aches etc. I am going to get Floradix for when I have finished the course of tablets and fingers crossed I will be back on the road to recovery and feeling more like myself soon. Im just resting, well as much as you can with two little ones, so off to put my feet up.

Can you use Floradix during pregnancy as I am 16 weeks and still so tired? I am currently using an ante natal vitamin which includes iron but would this be for energy does anyone know?

Floradix is fine in pregnancy Lulu. I think its main benefit is boosting iron levels which, if low, lead to fatigue. So it will be supplementing your vitamins, but I personally found the iron in Floradix much easier to digest than in pill-based supplements. So I suppose its possible that you have not been getting the full benefit from your pregnancy vits as far as their iron content goes. It will definitely not hurt you or the baby.