Articles tagged with Breast Feeding
A recent study published in Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences reveals that breastfeeding enhances infant intelligence quotient (IQ) only if they have a specific genetic variant. This variant, found in the FADS2 gene, influences the metabolism of breast milk's long-chain polyunsaturated fatty acids, which are essential for...
A study of over 3,000 breastfed infants found that having the FADS2 gene variant increased intelligence by an average of nearly 7 IQ points. The researchers suggest that breastfeeding may account for these differences in intelligence due to the presence of certain fatty acids.
Researchers found that breastfed babies had a lower average body mass index (BMI) and higher high-density lipoprotein (HDL or 'good' cholesterol) levels in adulthood. These protective factors against cardiovascular disease were observed even after accounting for personal and maternal demographic risk factors.
A recent study found that breastfed babies with asthmatic mothers had lower airflows and no improved lung growth, suggesting a potential link between breastfeeding and increased risk of asthma. In contrast, non-asthmatic mothers' milk may promote lung development.
A new review of medical literature reveals that breastfeeding provides numerous benefits, including lower risk of diabetes, lymphoma, and leukemia. However, the authors note that risks associated with formula feeding include growth failure and vitamin deficiencies, but these can be prevented or minimized with preventive measures.
A recent study led by McGill University found that breastfeeding does not offer protection against childhood asthma and allergies. The research, which followed 13,889 children from birth to age 6½, revealed an increased risk of positive allergic skin tests among breastfed infants.
A study from the Monell Chemical Senses Center reports that nicotine in breast milk disrupts infants' sleep patterns. Infants spent less time sleeping overall and woke up from naps sooner when their mothers smoked prior to breastfeeding.
A study suggests that pregnant and breastfeeding women consuming junk food during these periods may overeat and prefer high-calorie foods in their offspring. This could lead to a higher risk of obesity, type 2 diabetes, heart disease, and cancer.
Researchers at the Salk Institute found that PPARa helps control toxic fatty acids in breast milk, preventing inflammation and hair loss in pups. The discovery sheds light on the genetic program behind breast milk's purity.
A quarter of NYC adult New Yorkers have elevated blood mercury levels, with higher rates among Asian women and those consuming more fish. Pregnant and breastfeeding women, as well as young children, are advised to limit or avoid high-mercury fish to minimize health risks.
A study published at EULAR 2007 found that longer-term breastfeeding is associated with a lower risk of developing rheumatoid arthritis in mothers. The study, which involved 136 women with RA and 544 controls, suggested that naturally-induced hormones during breastfeeding may offer protective benefits against the disease.
A study found that breastfeeding for at least two months can lower the risk and severity of a childhood sleep-related breathing disorder. Long-term breastfed children had better jaw formation, possibly reducing the risk.
A community intervention campaign in Herkimer County increased comfort with breastfeeding in public, from 54% to 69% among men and 35% to 46% among women. The project aims to reduce obesity risk in infants through improved cultural acceptance of breastfeeding.
A new study found that flash-heating breast milk can successfully inactivate HIV, providing a safe alternative for mothers in resource-poor communities. The technique involves heating the milk in a pan of water over a flame and retains most of its nutritional and antimicrobial properties.
A new study found that breastfeeding rates among inner-city infants born in Baby-Friendly hospitals were comparable to the overall US population, suggesting positive effects of the initiative. The study identified factors influencing breastfeeding duration, including postpartum support and education.
New research suggests that breastfeeding and anti-inflammatory treatments can protect maternal mental health from depression. Breastfeeding has been shown to lower stress levels, thereby reducing the risk of depression in new mothers.
Women who delayed first-time pregnancy after age 25 can reduce their breast cancer risk through breastfeeding, a new study suggests. The research found that breastfeeding has a protective effect against both estrogen and progesterone receptor-positive and negative tumors.
A study published in The Lancet found that exclusive breastfeeding can significantly reduce the risk of HIV transmission from mother to child under six months. Infants who received formula milk or solids were nearly twice as likely to be infected, highlighting the importance of breast milk protection.
Research suggests that exclusive breastfeeding significantly lowers a baby's risk of postnatal infection with HIV. In contrast, introducing animal milks and solid foods before 14 weeks increases the risk. The study's findings warrant a revision of current infant-feeding guidelines.
A study found that focused support increased breastfeeding rates among Latina women, with those receiving peer counseling being 10-66 times more likely to nurse exclusively at 2 months postpartum. The research highlights the need for tailored interventions to address ethnic disparities in breastfeeding promotion.
Researchers found lower concentrations of VOCs in breast milk than in indoor air, with toluene levels ranking highest. This suggests that reducing indoor air pollution is crucial for minimizing infant exposure to harmful chemicals.
A new study suggests that HIV-positive mothers who receive adequate support can safely breastfeed either formula or short-term breastfeeding without compromising their infant's chances for survival and health. The research highlights the importance of providing comprehensive care to these mothers, enabling them to make informed decisio...
A new study published in the Journal of Periodontology found that breastfeeding mothers who consume insufficient Calcium may be at risk for increased bone loss around their teeth and gums. The research emphasizes the importance of a high-Calcium diet during lactation to promote healthy periodontal tissues.
A large study of Australian women found that epidurals during labor and birth are associated with decreased rates of breastfeeding in both the short-term and long-term. Women who had epidurals were more likely to experience difficulty breastfeeding and give up breastfeeding before six months compared to those without analgesia.
Researchers found that breast-feeding counters genetic tendencies toward ear infections, which can lead to learning difficulties and language development issues. The study identified specific genes involved in the vulnerability, but found that breast-feeding effectively neutralized their impact.
Research based on 9,000 children suggests that breastfed babies are less anxious than bottle-fed babies when faced with parental divorce or separation. The findings hold true regardless of other factors, but the authors note that breastfeeding may be a marker for other maternal or parental factors contributing to stress resilience.
Researchers developed an infant formula with prebiotic oligosaccharides to reduce atopic dermatitis in high-risk babies. The study found that formula-fed babies showed a significant increase in bifidobacteria and lower incidence of atopic dermatitis compared to those fed standard formulas.
The US lags behind Norway in providing maternity leave and support for breastfeeding mothers, potentially discouraging continued breastfeeding. Implementing policies that prioritize flexibility and respect for mother's feeding choices can encourage higher rates of breastfeeding and promote a healthier society.
Infants born to mothers with extremely short or long intervals between pregnancies face increased risks of preterm birth, low birth weight, and small for gestational age. Short intervals (less than 6 months) result in a 40% increase in preterm birth risk, while long intervals (more than 59 months) lead to a 20-43% higher risk.
Researchers used dual-energy X-ray absorpiometry (DXA) to measure adiposity, finding no significant difference in fat mass between breastfed and non-breastfed children. Early introduction of complementary foods did not lower fat mass either. Breastfeeding still provides numerous benefits for mother and child.
A recent study found that babies breastfed for six months have a significant reduction in respiratory illnesses, including pneumonia and ear infections. The study's lead author says the findings support the recommendation of exclusive breastfeeding for six months, which also provides protection against gastrointestinal infections.
A study of 83,585 and 73,418 women found that longer breastfeeding durations were associated with a reduced risk of type 2 diabetes, with risks decreasing by 15% and 14% per additional year of lactation. The findings suggest that maternal lactation may play a role in reducing the risk of type 2 diabetes in young and middle-aged women.
A systematic review and meta-analysis found that longer breastfeeding reduced a child's risk of coeliac disease by 52%. Infants breastfed regularly had lower risk when first introduced to gluten, suggesting reduced exposure or gut health benefits.
A new study from Uganda found that pregnant women are at a higher risk of acquiring HIV, with rates of 2.3% per year during pregnancy compared to 1.3% during breastfeeding and 1.1% for non-pregnant women. The research suggests hormonal changes may contribute to this increased risk.
A study in Rakai, Uganda found that women are at a higher risk of HIV infection during pregnancy compared to other times. The risk remains significant even after adjusting for sociodemographic or behavioral factors.
A study found that antiretroviral therapy can suppress HIV RNA in breast milk, reducing mother-to-child transmission. However, the impact of therapy on HIV DNA levels is unclear, with some studies suggesting a possible delay in treatment's effectiveness.
Researchers found that blocking oxytocin receptors during pregnancy reduced offspring growth and increased delay in milk release. This suggests improving the oxytocin system could encourage longer breast-feeding and support human health.
Research reveals that household dust is a significant source of flame retardants, posing health risks. The study suggests that frequent house cleaning and improved ventilation can help minimize exposure.
Research found no reduction in long-chain polyunsaturated fatty acids in breast milk of women who exercised moderately. Elderly people using herbal supplements are less satisfied with conventional medical care and often hide supplement use from doctors.
A Swedish study found that mothers who did not room-in their babies at night rated closeness between mother and infant lower and were more worried about sleep and disturbing noises. The study suggests that negative staff attitudes towards night rooming-in may negatively impact breastfeeding rates.
Research reveals that genetic variants can impact the amount of DHA in breast milk, essential for brain and eye development. Women with certain genetic variants produced higher levels of DHA in their breast milk, which may have implications for infant nutrition and development.
The study found that mixed breast feeding quadrupled HIV transmission, while predominant breastfeeding increased it by 2.6 times compared to exclusive breastfeeding. Early introduction of non-human milks and solid foods increases the risk of HIV infection for babies of HIV-positive women.
A study by Julie Mennella and colleagues found that moderate alcohol consumption decreases oxytocin levels, which affects milk ejection and production. The increased prolactin levels associated with breast fullness may also contribute to the decline of milk production.
A study found that alcohol consumption disrupts the hormonal balance of lactating women, leading to decreased oxytocin levels and increased prolactin levels. This can result in slower milk ejection and reduced milk production.
A new study suggests that breastfeeding mothers can safely resume nursing after undergoing surgery with the anesthetic propofol. The research found that less than 0.1% of the drug's dose is present in breast milk within 24 hours, minimizing infant exposure and justifying uninterrupted breastfeeding.
Researchers found high levels of perchlorate in breast milk across the US, correlating with low iodide levels that can inhibit thyroid function. The study suggests revising recommended daily intake of iodine for pregnant and nursing women.
A new study by NIST/EPA finds high concentrations of PBDEs in household dust, suggesting a primary source of exposure for humans. Small children are at highest risk due to their tendency to put hands and toys in their mouths.
Researchers found a significant increase in obesity (12% of men, 11% of women) and drinking (almost doubled in women with highest qualifications) among UK youth since the 1940s. Additionally, depression and anxiety rates have risen, with modern mothers less likely to breastfeed their children.
A large study found that breastfeeding for at least 24 months reduces the risk of rheumatoid arthritis by 50%, while irregular menstrual cycles between ages 20-35 increase the risk. The study also confirms a peak risk of RA around menopause age 50-54.
A new analysis has found a link between breastfeeding and lower risks of both acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) and acute myeloblastic leukemia (AML) in children. The study suggests that even short-term breastfeeding may be protective, particularly during the first few months.
A team of researchers at the University of Chicago found a chemosignal in breastfeeding compounds that encourages women's sexual desire. Women with regular partners experienced a 24% increase in sexual desire after two months of exposure, while those without partners saw a 17% boost in sexual fantasies.
Women with fibromyalgia often struggle with breast-feeding due to medication side effects and pain. Research suggests healthcare providers should explore non-prescription methods and refer women to lactation consultants for support.
Research found that obese women have a lower prolactin response to suckling, compromising milk production. This leads to a significantly shorter period of breastfeeding. The study suggests that obesity affects breast-feeding success, with overweight mothers being 2.5 to 3.6 times less successful than non-overweight mothers.
Despite WHO guidelines, only two in five infants under six months fed exclusively on breast milk. The study found low breastfeeding rates, especially in South America and the Caribbean.
Research found that live births and breastfeeding lower breast cancer risk in both white and African American women, with greater reductions among whites. The study also revealed younger African American women have fewer pregnancies and breastfed less often, which could lead to a rapid increase in breast cancer rates.
A prospective study found that breastfed preterm infants had lower ratios of LDL to HDL cholesterol and CRP concentrations compared to formula-fed counterparts. Longer human milk intake was associated with additional benefits on cardiovascular health.
A recent study published in Pediatrics found that breastfeeding for at least 28 days is associated with a 20% lower risk of dying between 28 days and one year of age. Longer breastfeeding duration also showed a similar benefit, indicating that even moderate breastfeeding can have a positive impact on infant mortality rates.
A study found that infants fed protein hydrolysate formula for seven months developed a taste preference for the formula, while those fed standard milk-based formula rejected it. Early flavor exposure influences long-term food choices.
Researchers at Whitehead Institute have developed a new experimental model of human breast cancer in mice, allowing for the study of early stage development and tumor growth. The model involves grafting human breast tissue into mouse mammary glands, enabling the production of human breast milk and pre-cancerous tumors.
Researchers identified several factors that may enable or prevent HIV transmission through breastfeeding, including the hostile environment of saliva and immune activation in the gastrointestinal tract. Protective factors include natural killer cells, natural antibodies, and specific antibody responses.