Articles tagged with Breast Feeding
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.
A new study published in Body Image found that perfectionism is related to breast size dissatisfaction among childless women. In contrast, motherhood appears to boost body image and reduce breast size dissatisfaction, particularly among women with multiple children.
A new study by LSU Health New Orleans researchers reveals that mothers' pre-pregnancy weight status impacts the composition of their breast milk, affecting infant growth. Infants born to overweight or obese mothers exhibit less responsive growth to breast milk.
A systematic review suggests that lithium's effects on breastfeeding are poorly understood due to sparse and poorly designed studies. Expert recommendations vary, and more research is necessary to inform patient decisions.
A new study published in JAMA Pediatrics found that using limited formula in the first days of life does not negatively impact breastfeeding at 6 months. However, it may alter maternal attitudes towards breastfeeding and lead to shorter breastfeeding duration. The study tracked 164 babies born at UCSF Benioff Children's Hospitals and P...
Research in mice found that breastfeeding can transfer immunity beyond the period of breastfeeding, driven by immune cells rather than antibodies. This protection was transferred from mothers exposed to worm infections before pregnancy and provided lifelong benefits to their infants.
A study suggests certain breast milk carbohydrates can affect gut-bone axis, providing potential therapeutic options for stunted children. Gut microbes, intestinal cell populations, and immune mediators are associated with bone response.
Women who breastfed their babies are less likely to develop heart disease later in life, with a stronger effect seen in women who breastfed for longer periods. The study's findings provide further evidence for the long-term health benefits of breastfeeding and its potential role in reducing cardiovascular disease risk.
A new study published in Breastfeeding Medicine found that early term infants (born at 37-38 weeks) are less likely to breastfeed within the first hour and at one month after birth. This is due to their neurologic immaturity, which can make breastfeeding more difficult.
A new study published in Public Health Nutrition found that 61% of low-income infants received formula in the first few days of life. Mothers who set an exclusive breastfeeding goal were five times more likely to be exclusively breastfeeding at three months post-partum, highlighting the need for education and culturally appropriate sup...
Research from WHO Europe found that babies who were never or only partially breastfed have a higher risk of becoming obese as children compared to exclusively breastfed babies. The study suggests that promoting breastfeeding practices can help prevent childhood obesity in Europe, but adoption rates are still below global recommendations.
A new study explores the history and resurgence of milk sharing practices, tracing them back to ancient times. The research highlights the importance of understanding the cultural context and advocating for safe sharing practices.
Research at Children's National Hospital found that breastfed preterm infants have higher levels of key metabolites, such as creatine and choline, which support brain growth and development. This study suggests breastfeeding may play a crucial role in neurodevelopmental outcomes for preterm infants.
The article review found no risks associated with breastfeeding mothers receiving routine and standard vaccinations. In fact, there are benefits for both mothers and infants, including enhanced antibody response and reduced vaccine-related fever after infant vaccination.
New research finds differences in breast milk composition between normal weight and overweight mothers, with specific metabolites identified as risk factors for childhood obesity. The study suggests that a tailored mix of nutrients in breast milk could be therapeutic targets to protect children from obesity.
A new article provides culturally competent lactation education and evidence-based guidance for Orthodox Jewish mothers with sick newborns. Nurses are advised to have conversations with Rabbis before delivery to determine colostrum and milk storage needs, ensuring personalized care and meeting individual goals.
A pilot study found that human milk was associated with decreased markers of inflammation and injury in the stool of children undergoing bone marrow transplant. The results also showed lower levels of intestinal viruses and bacteria in the stool samples of children receiving human milk compared to those receiving formula.
Research shows indigenous Mexican mothers can breastfeed successfully after C-sections, reducing negative child health effects. The practice is culturally mediated and offers protective benefits that reduce health problems.
A new Australian study found that mothers who breastfeed are 34 percent less likely to die of heart disease than those who don't. Women who breastfed for up to 12 months had a lower risk of developing and dying from cardiovascular disease, with significant findings independent of socio-economic status and overall health-related lifestyle.
A study by Laura Miller-Graff found that breastfeeding for six weeks can protect infants from the negative effects of prenatal intimate partner violence. This protective effect was observed in low-income women who experienced IPV during pregnancy.
A new study by CDC researchers found that US hospital breastfeeding policies improved slightly between 2009 and 2015, with over 70% of hospitals still offering free infant formula. The study analyzed data from the Maternity Practices in Infant Nutrition and Care survey, which showed increases in model policy adoption and early breastfe...
A study found that nearly all colleges have dedicated lactation spaces, but only a quarter include them in campus construction standards. The researchers hope to help institutions create more comprehensive policies and resources for breastfeeding moms.
A new study found that the risk of relapse in multiple sclerosis (MS) is lower during and after pregnancy than previously thought. Women with MS can have children without an increased risk of relapses, according to a preliminary study published by the American Academy of Neurology.
Scientists are working on modifying human breast milk cells to produce specific proteins, such as vaccines, for premature babies. These engineered cells could potentially address birth defects, provide necessary proteins, or even treat certain diseases.
An Australian study found that regular telephone support from experienced breastfeeders increased breastfeeding rates among first-time mothers by 75%, compared to 69% in the control group. The program also improved mothers' ability to cope with challenges, leading to a significant increase in exclusive breastfeeding at six months.
Researchers have discovered that breast milk contains a variety of yeasts and fungi, including Malassezia and Davidiella, which are present in different geographic locations. These findings suggest that breast milk plays an important role in the initial seeding of fungal species to the infant gut.
Researchers found no significant difference in breastfeeding duration between early-term and full-term infants, suggesting that healthy premature babies can have successful breastfeeding outcomes. The study included 2,700 pairs of mothers and infants and monitored them from birth to 12 months or until breastfeeding ceased.
Research led by Dr. Karen A. Robbins found that mothers whose infants had suspected food allergies reported breastfeeding them for significantly longer periods, with an average of 45.8 weeks compared to 32 weeks for those without concerns. This suggests a potential link between breastfeeding duration and the development of allergies.
New research from London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine shows that interventions in West Africa can significantly increase rates of exclusive breastfeeding. The study found that women who received support reported being 70% more likely to exclusively breastfeed than those who did not receive the intervention.
Researchers recommend human milk as the best diet for infants with CHD due to improved feeding tolerance, decreased risk of NEC, and better developmental outcomes. The journal advocates for prioritizing informed feeding decisions and supporting mothers' breastfeeding goals.
Breastfeeding initiation rates increased by 9% among African Americans, narrowing the gap with White women. CHAMPS program adoption led to improved maternity care and evidence-based practices.
Targeted interventions improved mean delta weight Z-scores by 43% in very low birth weight infants. Micro-preemies who were born between 26-28 weeks gestation showed the greatest improvement, with a 64% increase in growth trends.
A new study by MassGeneral Hospital for Children finds that breastfeeding mothers are more likely to quit smoking when they have access to evidence-based assistance. The CEASE program, which trains pediatric office staff to screen and support smoking families, provides nicotine replacement prescriptions and referrals to state quitlines.
New research reveals that breastmilk and saliva interact to regulate the oral microbiome of newborn babies, boosting innate immunity. The combination releases antibacterial compounds that inhibit the growth of both harmless and harmful microorganisms.
A study of 40 breastfed and 13 formula-fed infants found that breastfed babies had significantly more frequent stools and liquid stools during the first two months. The researchers are still unsure about the underlying mechanisms behind this phenomenon.
A new study found that single mothers, those with less education, and mothers enrolled in the WIC Program may receive fewer resources and information to help them breastfeed. Despite receiving support from professionals, demographic differences and stress levels may affect their ability to engage in breastfeeding practices.
Researchers discovered that breastfeeding for over six months lowers the risk of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) in mothers. Women who breastfed one or more children for longer periods had a lower risk compared to those who did not breastfeed or breastfed for under one month.
A new study found that while formula and breast milk encourage similar bacteria growth in infants' digestive tracts, the bacteria work differently. Breastfed babies' microbiomes compensate for protein levels by increasing amino acid synthesis, whereas formula-fed babies produce a distinct set of amino acids.
A survey of 724 women found that nearly 60% knew about the link between breastfeeding and breast cancer risk reduction, but only 16% learned it from a medical professional. The study highlights the importance of healthcare providers educating mothers about the benefits of breastfeeding in reducing breast cancer risk.
A new analysis found that partially paid family leave policies in California and New Jersey increased breastfeeding rates, particularly among higher-income women. However, the benefits were modest and may not be sufficient to support low-income parents who need it most.
Research reveals that babies establish a healthy gut microbiome until around 2.5 years old, with breastfeeding playing a crucial role in early life. After weaning, the microbiome rapidly changes and becomes more stable, but the loss of beneficial bacteria can occur if breast milk is not available.
A systematic review of 15 studies found that breastfeeding was associated with a reduced risk of high blood pressure in women, even after extended follow-up. The study suggests that lactation provides major health benefits for both mothers and infants.
A study published in Cell Death Discovery found that a critical switch during breaks in nursing controls whether breast cells survive or die, potentially providing a strategy to block cancer. The researchers identified the unfolded protein response (UPR) pathway as a key player in this process.
Kathryn Whitehead's project uses genetic engineering to isolate and modify human cells in breast milk for infant disease therapy. The goal is to develop non-invasive treatments for babies with diseases, such as spina bifida or enterocolitis.
Research suggests that breastfeeding can change gene activity in infants, making them less reactive to stress. The study found that breastfed babies had decreased DNA methylation and cortisol reactivity.
Researchers found that infants with higher levels of Bifidobacterium had reduced antimicrobial resistance genes and lower frequency of resistant bacteria. This suggests that colonization by the microbe can help guard the infant intestine.
A new study found that mothers who intended to exclusively breastfeed but used formula had similar health outcomes to those who breastfed exclusively. The findings suggest that a mother's characteristics and access to healthcare information may be more important than breastfeeding itself in determining infant health outcomes.
A recent study published in NeuroImage found that breast milk is associated with improved brain connectivity in premature babies. The research, conducted by the University of Edinburgh, suggests that exclusive breastfeeding for at least three-quarters of hospital days can lead to better long-term outcomes for pre-term infants.
A Cornell University study found that women who breastfeed their first child for five months or longer are more likely to have three or more children. The researchers suggest that long-duration breastfeeding may capture preferences about family and child investment among highly educated women.
A study by University of California - San Diego found that 63% of breast milk samples from mothers using marijuana contained THC, the primary psychoactive component. The study suggests that while the amount of THC in breast milk is relatively low, more research is needed to understand its potential effects on nursing babies.
Researchers have pinpointed risk factors for noma, a rare disease causing facial gangrene, in northwest Nigeria. Children who were fed pap daily were at higher risk, while those breastfed colostrum and had varied diets were less likely to contract the disease.
A study by the University of Pennsylvania found that only 1.3% of cities in the US have local safeguards for nursing mothers returning to work outside the home. This lack of protection disproportionately affects women who are not covered by the federal law, highlighting a social-justice and public-health issue.
A new special issue of Bundesgesundheitsblatt explores the prevalence, benefits, and risks of breastfeeding in Germany. The study highlights the positive effects of breastfeeding for both mother and child, including reduced risk of respiratory infections and overweight/Type 2 diabetes.
Researchers found that exposure to household smoke shortens breastfeeding duration, and fathers who smoke are less likely to prefer breastfeeding. The study suggests quitting smoking before pregnancy is crucial for new mothers.
Boston Medical Center's Vital Village Network has selected ten local communities to form the Networks of Opportunity for Child Wellbeing Learning Community to address barriers and develop innovative community partnerships aimed at improving the early childhood experience. The initiative will support these communities in building a robu...
Dr. Diane Spatz's 10-Step model provides a critical framework for lactation care, focusing on vulnerable infants separated from mothers. The system has been implemented globally and is grounded in research findings and clinical experience.
A new study by Michigan State University and Texas Christian University found that support from colleagues is instrumental to women continuing breastfeeding after returning to work. The research suggests that co-worker support and a supportive workplace environment can make a significant difference in breastfeeding success.
A randomized clinical trial found that early introduction of some solid foods, accompanied by continued breastfeeding, resulted in small but significant improvements in infant sleep. The study also showed that the timing of introducing solid foods may influence infant sleep patterns.
A Hong Kong-based study found that nursing mothers who live with two or more smokers are more likely to stop breastfeeding sooner. The study, published in Breastfeeding Medicine, discovered a 30% higher risk of ending breastfeeding before a year among these mothers.
A study published in Acta Paediatrica found that non-dairy drinks can lead to malnutrition, height and weight impairment, anaemia, and other health problems in infants. The alternative beverages, commonly based on almonds, chestnuts, rice, and soya, were consumed by 34 children who suffered medical complications between 2005 and 2015.