Articles tagged with Breast Feeding
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.
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.
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.
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.
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 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.
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.
Research highlights the risk of adverse effects from cannabis on breastfeeding infants, with CLCs playing a critical role in guiding mothers. Certified lactation consultants (CLCs) are encouraged to partner with healthcare providers to educate and counsel women using cannabis while breastfeeding.
The Academy of Breastfeeding Medicine has released new evidence-based recommendations on the benefits and risks of bedsharing for breastfeeding mothers. Safe bedsharing is now considered a positive practice, but parents should be educated on hazards such as tobacco exposure, preterm birth, and impaired adult behavior.
A study by Flinders University found that mobile apps support breastfeeding decisions but can also overwhelm mothers with information. The apps provide a modern way of tracking baby care aspects, but some may not be tailored to individual needs.
A new study confirms breastfeeding is crucial for preventing diabetes, as early weaning increases insulin secretion and susceptibility to Type 2 diabetes. The research suggests that not breastfed rat pups are more likely to develop insulin resistance and the adult form of the disease.
A recent study published in Pediatric Research suggests that early use of breast milk could play a vital role in preventing heart disease in prematurely born infants. The study found that exclusively human milk-fed preterm-born adults had smaller heart chambers and relatively lower blood pressure compared to those who were formula fed.
Scientists have detected 15 different photoinitiators in human breast milk, with benzophenone being the most prevalent. The researchers estimate that breastfeeding infants ingest high amounts of these compounds, but predict a low health risk due to levels below safe thresholds.
A recent study published in PLOS ONE found that babies born to mothers taking antidepressants during pregnancy are at increased risk of reduced breastfeeding rates, preterm delivery, and low birth weight. The study suggests that women prescribed antidepressants should be identified for closer monitoring and targeted support.
Women are increasingly turning to informal milk-sharing due to cost and quality concerns, but this practice is discouraged by the AAP due to potential disease transmission and medication exposure. The study aims to understand parental motivations and concerns regarding breast milk donation options.
A randomized clinical trial in Japan investigated whether avoiding cow's milk formula supplements breastfeeding to decrease the risk of sensitization to cow's milk protein or food allergies. The study involved about 300 newborns and found that this approach may be effective in reducing the risk of these conditions.
A systematic review and meta-analysis of six studies with over 200,000 participants found that breastfeeding is associated with a lower risk of developing maternal diabetes and hypertension. The study suggests that breastfeeding may have a protective effect against these conditions.
A recent study analyzing national survey data found significant breastfeeding disparities among US children based on race/ethnicity. Breastfeeding rates were lower for black infants compared to white infants, especially when sociodemographic factors were considered.
A study from the University of Pennsylvania School of Nursing found that human milk and breastfeeding can improve outcomes for infants with myelomeningocele. The unique transition-to-breast pathway program helped many mothers establish an exclusive human milk diet, which is essential for optimal brain development.
Breastfeeding for six months can save an estimated 95-153 kg CO2 equivalent per baby compared to formula feeding. The food industry's contribution to greenhouse gases is significant, with dairy and meat production being major contributors.
Mothers who experience domestic violence are 12% less likely to initiate breastfeeding within an hour of birth and 13% less likely to breastfeed exclusively in the first six months. Early initiation and exclusive breastfeeding have numerous health benefits, including improved survival rates for infants and mothers.
Mothers exposed to intimate partner violence are less likely to initiate early and exclusive breastfeeding in low- and middle-income countries. Physical and emotional abuse were independently associated with decreased likelihood of early and exclusive breastfeeding.
A UMass Amherst research team will investigate the effect of a fruit and vegetable-rich diet on breast cancer risk in lactating women. The New Moms Wellness Study, funded by a $3.1 million NIH grant, aims to assess biomarkers of breast cancer risk using breastmilk.
A recent study by UTHealth School of Public Health found Texas ranks among the top quarter of US states for its worksite lactation support initiatives. The research identified eight minimum requirements for comprehensive programs, which can help increase breastfeeding rates and provide flexibility for employees.
Researchers found that anti-VEGF drugs ranibizumab and aflibercept are excreted into breast milk within days of injection, potentially suppressing VEGF levels in infants. The study provides valuable information for ophthalmologists counseling pregnant or nursing patients with retinal diseases.
Researchers discovered how breastfed babies absorb large amounts of calcium, building healthy bones. This mechanism could be key to treating osteoporosis and other bone diseases later in life.
A new study from the Institute for Health Metrics and Evaluation finds that only Guinea-Bissau, Rwanda, and São Tomé and Príncipe are on track to meet the WHO's exclusive breastfeeding goal by 2025. With optimal breastfeeding practices, over 800,000 child deaths could be averted annually.
Researchers analyzed 2-million-year-old teeth to understand breastfeeding patterns in extinct early human species Australopithecus africanus. They found the species breastfed for up to one year and experienced cycles of food scarcity, influencing their nursing behaviors.
Australopithecus africanus mothers breastfed their infants continuously from birth to about one year of age. The research team analyzed over two-million-year-old teeth and found that nursing appears to continue in a cyclical pattern, with the mother supplementing gathered foods with breastmilk during seasonal changes and food shortages.