Does Breast Milk Contain CBD? Exploring the Science & Myths

Does Breast Milk Contain CBD? Exploring the Science & Myths

In recent years, CBD (cannabidiol) has gained significant attention for its potential health benefits, from stress relief to pain management. But a growing debate has emerged around an unusual question: Does breast milk naturally contain CBD? Some sources claim that cannabinoids, similar to those found in cannabis plants, are present in human breast milk. But what does the science actually say? Let’s dive into the research, myths, and facts.

Understanding the Endocannabinoid System & Breast Milk

The human body has an endocannabinoid system (ECS), which plays a crucial role in regulating mood, sleep, appetite, and immune function. The ECS includes naturally occurring compounds called endocannabinoids, which interact with cannabinoid receptors throughout the body. These endocannabinoids share structural similarities with plant-based cannabinoids like CBD and THC.

One of the most well-known endocannabinoids is anandamide, often referred to as the “bliss molecule.” Research has found that anandamide and 2-arachidonoylglycerol (2-AG)—two primary endocannabinoids—are naturally present in human breast milk. These compounds are believed to play a key role in helping newborns develop healthy feeding behaviors, reduce stress, and promote bonding between mother and baby.

However, these naturally occurring endocannabinoids are not the same as CBD. While they interact with similar receptors in the body, CBD is a phytocannabinoid—a plant-derived compound extracted from cannabis or hemp. This distinction is crucial because CBD itself has not been found to occur naturally in breast milk.

Debunking the Myth: Does Breast Milk Contain CBD?

The misconception that breast milk contains CBD likely comes from a misunderstanding of the ECS and how it functions. Here’s why this claim doesn’t hold up:

  1. Endocannabinoids vs. Phytocannabinoids – The cannabinoids found in breast milk are endogenous (produced by the human body), while CBD is plant-derived. They may have overlapping effects, but they are not the same.

  2. No Scientific Evidence of CBD in Breast Milk – There are no peer-reviewed studies confirming that CBD is naturally produced in human milk. The research available only identifies naturally occurring endocannabinoids.

  3. CBD Only Appears If Ingested by the Mother – If a breastfeeding mother consumes CBD through oils, edibles, or patches, small amounts may pass into breast milk. However, there is limited research on how much CBD transfers and whether it has any effects on the baby.

Is It Safe for Breastfeeding Mothers to Use CBD?

Since CBD is widely used for stress, anxiety, and pain relief, many new mothers wonder if they can safely use it while breastfeeding. Unfortunately, there is limited research on the effects of CBD on breastfed infants.

Here’s what we do know:

  • CBD is lipophilic (fat-soluble), meaning it can accumulate in fatty tissues, including breast milk.

  • The FDA advises against CBD use during pregnancy and breastfeeding, citing a lack of research on its long-term effects.

  • Animal studies suggest that CBD could impact infant brain development, but human studies are lacking.

  • Some studies suggest that CBD may reduce stress and improve sleep, but its safety for breastfeeding infants remains uncertain.

Ultimately, breastfeeding mothers should consult with a healthcare professional before using CBD.

Conclusion: Natural Cannabinoids in Breast Milk, But Not CBD

While it’s true that breast milk contains natural cannabinoids, these are endocannabinoids, not CBD. The human body produces its own cannabinoids that help support newborn development, but they are distinct from plant-based compounds like CBD.

If you’re a breastfeeding mother considering CBD, it’s essential to weigh the potential benefits and risks and seek medical advice. As research into cannabinoids continues to evolve, we may learn more about how CBD interacts with the body during pregnancy and breastfeeding.

For now, the idea that breast milk naturally contains CBD is a myth—but the role of the endocannabinoid system in infant health is a fascinating area of research worth exploring!

 

Sources:

  1. Endocannabinoids in Human Breast Milk: Research indicates that human breast milk contains endocannabinoids, such as 2-arachidonoylglycerol (2-AG), which play a role in infant development. science.feedback.org
  2. FDA Advisory on CBD Use During Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) strongly advises against the use of cannabidiol (CBD), tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), and marijuana in any form during pregnancy or while breastfeeding. wicworks.fns.usda.gov
  3. Detection of Cannabinoids in Breast Milk Post Cannabis Use: Studies have demonstrated that cannabinoids and their metabolites are detectable in human milk produced by mothers who use cannabis. pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov
  4. Potential Effects of Cannabis Use During Pregnancy: Using cannabis during pregnancy may affect your baby's development and put you at risk of pregnancy complications. cdc.gov
  5. FDA Regulation of Cannabis and Cannabis-Derived Products: Based on available evidence, the FDA has concluded that THC and CBD products are excluded from the dietary supplement definition under section 201(ff)(3)(B) of the FD&C Act. fda.gov
  6. Cannabinoid Detection in Human Milk Following Cannabis Use: Cannabinoids are measurable in human milk following cannabis use, and concentrations remain elevated with repeated cannabis use. liebertpub.com
  7. FDA on Marijuana, THC, CBD - Breastfeeding and Pregnancy: There is not a large body of research on the effects of CBD in pregnancy and while breastfeeding, but the FDA is continuing to look at the research and collect data. aspenhospital.org
  8. Study Explores How Cannabis Use Affects Breast Milk and Lactation: Prior research suggests that cannabinoids change human milk composition; however, no in vivo or clinical studies have corroborated this report. news-medical.net
  9. Medicine and Pregnancy - FDA: Using any form of cannabis products while pregnant can affect fetal brain development, increase the risk of a newborn with low birth weight, premature birth, and potentially stillbirth. fda.gov
  10. Are Cannabinoids in Human Milk the Same as Cannabinoids in Marijuana?: Twelve endocannabinoid-related compounds have been detected in human milk. The most abundant endocannabinoid in human milk is 2-AG. hopefeedsfamilies.com
  11. Cannabis and Pregnancy - CDC: Using cannabis during pregnancy may affect your baby's development and put you at risk of pregnancy complications. cdc.gov
  12. Cannabidiol (CBD) - Topic of the Month: There was a recent study finding CBD in the breastmilk of moms who were taking the supplement. The FDA advises that pregnant and nursing women avoid using CBD. health.state.mn.us
  13. THC Lingers in Breastmilk with No Clear Peak Point: WSU-led research found detectable amounts of THC in breastmilk, even when cannabis-using mothers abstained for 12 hours. news.wsu.edu
  14. About CBD | Cannabis and Public Health - CDC: Since negative effects have been associated with CBD use, people who are breastfeeding are encouraged to avoid CBD. cdc.gov
  15. Postpartum Changes in the Endocannabinoid Metabolome of Human Milk: Human breast milk has detectable levels of specific endocannabinoids which stimulate the suckle reflex in the baby's brain promoting feeding. faseb.onlinelibrary.wiley.com
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