Articles tagged with Breast Feeding
Researchers found that breastfed children scored higher on neurocognitive tests, with the strongest association seen in those breastfed for more than 12 months. The study, which analyzed over 9,000 participants, suggests that any amount of breastfeeding has a positive cognitive impact.
Research supports health benefits of breastfeeding by linking it to lower visceral and pericardial fat volumes. Lactation duration is associated with a 50% lower relative risk of progression to Type 2 diabetes in women, independent of their metabolic profiles and body size before pregnancy.
A new study found that breastfeeding mothers who receive a COVID-19 vaccine can pass protective antibodies to their babies through breast milk, providing long-lasting immune protection. The research tracked antibody levels in breast milk over an extended period and confirms the potential immune benefit of breast-feeding infants after v...
A comprehensive review of past decade research found limited evidence to encourage MOM feedings in Black and Hispanic preterm infants. The study recommends targeted, culturally sensitive lactation support interventions to address racial/ethnic disparities in breast milk expression.
A study by the University of California, Davis found that breast milk-fed babies given probiotic B. infantis persist in their gut for up to 1 year, outlasting typical probiotic effects. This persistent colonization helps regulate complex sugars and prevents potential pathogens from establishing a foothold.
Researchers at Children's Hospital Colorado found that tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), the psychoactive component of marijuana, persists in breast milk for up to six weeks. The study supports recommendations to abstain from marijuana use during pregnancy and breastfeeding.
A Johns Hopkins Medicine research team discovered that a diet rich in indole-3-carbinole, found in green leafy vegetables like broccoli, can protect premature infants from necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC). The study also found that breast milk from these mothers provided continued immunity against NEC.
Global findings from a University of Pennsylvania School of Nursing researcher highlight concerns about the impact of COVID-19 on birth outcomes and breastfeeding establishment. The article emphasizes the importance of prioritizing evidence-based lactation education, care, and technical assistance to protect human milk and breastfeeding.
A study published in Breastfeeding Medicine found that separating COVID-infected mothers from their babies can cause significant maternal distress and negatively impact exclusive breastfeeding. The research suggests that skin-to-skin care, rooming-in within arms' reach, and direct breastfeeding may be safe for infected mothers.
A multi-institutional team of researchers found that breastfeeding women with COVID-19 transfer milk-borne antibodies capable of neutralizing the virus to their infants. The study analyzed 37 milk samples and showed no maternal-to-infant transmission of SARS-CoV-2 via milk.
African American mothers experience lower breastfeeding initiation rates compared to the general population. The study reveals that cultural stereotypes, disparities in care approaches, and limited access to resources contribute to these disparities.
Pregnant and breastfeeding individuals should be offered COVID-19 vaccines based on ethical principles, considering individual autonomy and risk of severe illness. Although no adverse effects have been observed in vaccinated participants, those at high risk of severe COVID-19 should prioritize vaccination to protect themselves and others.
Researchers have discovered that breastfed babies have nearly twice as many regulatory T cells, which control the immune response and reduce inflammation. The study found that specific bacteria support these cells' function, emphasizing the importance of breastfeeding.
Researchers at Cedars-Sinai Medical Center have found that mixing exosomes with the protein casein can effectively treat muscular dystrophy and heart failure in laboratory mice. The study could lead to clinical trials of oral treatment for patients.
The Academy of Breastfeeding Medicine suggests that lactating women discuss the risks and benefits of COVID-19 vaccination with their healthcare provider. The ABM statement is based on biological plausibility and expert opinion, considering there are no clinical data on vaccine safety in nursing mothers.
A recent study published in Nutrients suggests that mothers who consume more cow's milk during breastfeeding have children with lower rates of food allergies. The researchers found a clear connection between the mother's intake of milk and dairy products and the smaller incidence of food allergy in their children.
A lipid metabolite called 12,13-diHOME is found in human breast milk and appears to be associated with beneficial infant weight gain and body composition. Maternal exercise may boost levels of the metabolite, potentially benefiting offspring growth and development.
Researchers surveyed labor nurses from 36 hospitals in three states and found that hospitals with higher rates of exclusive breastfeeding had less missed nursing care. Exclusive breastfeeding was also associated with hospitals adhering to nurse staffing guidelines during labor and immediate postpartum care.
A new study by Columbia University researchers found that mothers with SARS-CoV-2 infection rarely transmit the virus to their newborns when basic infection-control practices are followed. This suggests that more extensive measures like separating COVID-19-positive mothers from their newborns may not be necessary.
A new study published in The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition found that consuming sugary beverages during breastfeeding can lead to poorer cognitive development in children nearly two years later. Moms who reported greater consumption of these beverages had children with lower cognitive development scores.
A recent study published in the American College of Surgeons found that over 80% of young women can successfully breastfeed or bottle-feed after undergoing surgery for benign breast conditions. The research aimed to address concerns among breast surgeons and pediatricians about the impact of surgery on future breastfeeding capability.
A new study aims to assess the safety of a monthly dapivirine ring and daily oral PrEP in breastfeeding women, who are at high risk of HIV infection. The study, called B-PROTECTED, will enroll up to 200 mothers and their babies in Malawi, South Africa, Uganda, and Zimbabwe.
The discovery reveals alarmins play a crucial role in developing optimal intestinal bacteria diversity, protecting against diseases. Supplementing with these proteins could support newborns with low alarmin levels or limited breast milk exposure.
A new study led by UT Southwestern scientists suggests that breastfeeding changes the body's insulin sensitivity, particularly in highly insulin-sensitive organs like the liver and fat tissue. This increase in insulin sensitivity may provide a buffer against insulin resistance even decades later, lowering the risk of Type 2 diabetes.
Breastfeeding and human milk are critical to maternal and infant health outcomes during public health emergencies. Current COVID-19 recommendations contradict WHO guidance, disproportionately harming Black, Indigenous, and People of Color communities. Studies must be conducted with a racial equity lens to provide evidence-based guidance.
Researchers from University of California San Diego School of Medicine and UCLA found that SARS-CoV-2 virus was unable to replicate in breast milk, making it unlikely a source of infection for infants. Breastfeeding remains recommended with proper hand hygiene and equipment sterilization.
A nationwide study on COVID-19 and infant feeding is exploring whether breast milk can protect babies from the virus. Researchers will collect biological samples, interview participants, and compare outcomes between breastfed and non-breastfed babies to inform policy recommendations.
Researchers found that human-based milk fortifiers have better health outcomes for underweight, premature babies, reducing the risk of necrotizing enterocolitis and retinopathy of prematurity. This study suggests that entirely human milk diets can meet nutritional needs without negative health effects.
Breastfeeding is now considered safe after anaesthesia, according to new guidelines published by the Association of Anaesthetists in the journal Anaesthesia. The guidelines state that breast milk remains safe even if mother has had anaesthetic or painkiller drugs.
A small observational study found no cases of virus transmission from mothers with COVID-19 infection to their newborn babies after two weeks of breastfeeding and skin-to-skin contact. Mothers can safely breastfeed and stay in the same room as their newborns if they use appropriate face coverings and follow infection control procedures.
Researchers at the University of British Columbia and the University of Manitoba found that certain bacteria in breast milk co-occur with their infants' stool. Breastfeeding directly at the breast was strongly associated with a baby's overall gut microbiota composition.
New research finds that pasteurizing breast milk inactivates severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), making it safe for use. The Holder method, a common technique used by over 650 human breast milk banks worldwide, is effective at neutralizing viruses in human milk.
Lactating emergency physicians face challenges in emergency departments due to lack of support and policies. Implementing strategies like time management, flexible scheduling and adequate lactation spaces can improve their ability to meet lactation goals.
A new study by Ohio State University researchers finds that moderate exercise during pregnancy increases a compound in breast milk that reduces the risk of heart disease, diabetes, and obesity in babies. The study also suggests that this beneficial compound can be isolated and added to infant formula.
Exclusive breastfeeding until 6 months of age reduces body mass index by up to 1.53 kg/m2 in high-risk individuals. The World Health Organization's recommendation is reinforced, suggesting a longer duration of exclusive breastfeeding may have the greatest benefits for obesity prevention.
A new protocol has been established to guide clinicians in delivering optimal care to women with breast cancer who are breastfeeding. The protocol addresses the spectrum of care, including oncologic breast surgery, chemotherapy, and adjuvant therapy, while emphasizing the importance of breastfeeding for these mothers.
Researchers found only 34% of mothers exclusively breastfed to six months due to milk shortages or breastfeeding difficulties. Mothers may need to supplement or stop if they experience problems.
A recent study found that women diagnosed with ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS) are at a significantly higher risk of developing invasive breast cancer and dying from breast cancer, even up to 20 years after diagnosis. The risks were more than double those of the general population.
Clinical trials of COVID-19 treatments have left pregnant and breastfeeding women without safety data, forcing a difficult decision between medication use and breastfeeding. The lack of research on drug transfer into breast milk poses a risk to infants.
Marketing experts argue that current regulations do not effectively prevent potentially misleading claims about infant formula, which may carry health risks for vulnerable populations. The proposed solution includes premarket approval for changes to formula composition and higher scientific substantiation standards for claims.
A new animal study suggests that maternal nicotine exposure during breastfeeding can affect offspring's skull and face development. The research team found that exposure to nicotine during lactation was associated with abnormalities in craniofacial development.
Research found that breastfeeding significantly influences viral populations in infant guts, providing a protective effect against pathogenic viruses. Even small amounts of breastmilk can reduce the risk of early gastrointestinal disorders.
Current medical guidelines for diagnosing cow's milk allergy in babies and young children may lead to overdiagnosis due to common symptoms being mistaken for the condition. Studies have found that only around 1% of infants have cow's milk allergy, but up to 14% of families believe their child has it.
The Academy of Breastfeeding Medicine recommends keeping mothers and infants together, citing no evidence that separation improves outcomes. Separation may minimize virus transmission but can have negative consequences for both mother and infant, including disrupted breastfeeding and skin-to-skin contact.
A study by the University of Texas at Austin found that Mexican women living in Texas breastfed longer than their counterparts born and educated in the US. The research showed that early formula use, returning to work, and smoking were risk factors for discontinuing breastfeeding earlier than intended.
A substance found in breast milk appears to prevent the migration of pathogenic Escherichia coli from the gut to the bloodstream of newborn mice. Donated breast milk collected closer to birth may provide increased protection against late-onset sepsis.
Researchers found that breast milk with higher levels of epidermal growth factor can activate intestinal cells to keep harmful gut bacteria from migrating into the bloodstream. This could provide a potential new tool to combat late-onset sepsis in premature babies.
A new guide seeks to provide healthcare providers with useful tools and information to support new mothers with the challenges of exclusive breastfeeding during the first six months. The guide addresses gaps in knowledge and support created in previous decades, providing evidence-based solutions for breastfeeding management.
A study of 1,177 mother-infant pairs found exclusive breastfeeding for the first 3 months linked with a lower risk of respiratory allergies and asthma. Breastfeeding duration was insufficient to reduce the risk if not accompanied by family history of asthma.
A new article reviews commonly used coronavirus treatments and their potential impact on breastfeeding infants. Despite a lack of evidence, the Academy of Breastfeeding Medicine advises continued breastfeeding with careful handwashing and mask-wearing to minimize viral exposure.
A new NIH-funded study suggests that natural sugars in breastmilk, known as human milk oligosaccharides (HMOs), may influence a child's growth from infancy through early childhood. The study found associations between HMO composition and growth patterns among 800 pairs of mothers and children.
A study published by Children's Hospital Los Angeles found that the carbohydrate 2'FL in breast milk positively influences neurodevelopment and enhances cognitive development in babies. The researchers analyzed breast milk composition and feeding patterns to determine the effects of 2'FL on infant cognitive development.
A new study called DELIVER will enroll 750 healthy, HIV-negative pregnant women to test the safety of two HIV prevention methods: a monthly dapivirine vaginal ring and daily Truvada. The study aims to provide much-needed information about these products' safety in pregnant women, an area currently lacking in data.
Researchers are developing a new non-invasive test that analyzes breast milk to detect breast cancer in its earliest stages in high-risk breastfeeding women. The study aims to identify profiles of breast cells that may indicate increased risk of breast disease and shed light on breast cancer development.
A global study of 18,541 women in 40 countries found that 71% are unhappy with their breast size, with 48% wanting larger breasts and 29% satisfied. The study also linked breast size dissatisfaction to poorer psychological well-being, lower self-esteem, and reduced breast cancer awareness.
A study by Northwestern Medicine and CDC found that unmarried mothers with paternal involvement are more likely to breastfeed and engage in protective health behaviors. This is compared to married mothers who also experience benefits from their partner's presence, suggesting a positive impact of fatherhood on maternal health.
A recent study published in JAMA Neurology found that breastfeeding does not pose a risk for infants of mothers with epilepsy who take antiepileptic drugs. The study measured the drug concentrations directly in infants through breast milk, showing substantially lower levels than maternal blood concentrations.
Consuming natural yoghurt daily may lower breast cancer risk by displacing harmful bacteria with beneficial ones. Breastfeeding also reduces the risk, likely due to lactose fermenting bacteria occupying breast ducts.
A new study found that women who breastfed their infants exclusively had a lower risk of early menopause compared to those who did not. The study, which observed over 108,000 women, also found that longer breastfeeding times were associated with a lower risk of early menopause.
Despite federal guidelines in place, many working mothers struggle to access breastfeeding resources such as private rooms, lactation consultants, and breast pumps. Experts recommend employers designate a point person for breastfeeding support to improve work-life balance for new mothers.