Testing breast milk for cannabinoids
Researchers developed a new method to detect trace levels of cannabinoids in breast milk, which could help determine health risks for infants exposed through second-hand use.
Breast Feeding
Articles tagged with Breast Feeding
Most breastfed infants not receiving recommended vitamin D supplementation
A study found that only 55% of breastfed infants received the recommended daily vitamin D supplementation. Mothers preferred to supplement themselves, citing safety as their top concern. Higher doses of vitamin D could be incorporated into maternal supplementation routines to enrich breast milk and improve intakes in breastfed infants.
New moms moving toward the bottle
A UBC study found that new moms transitioning to expressed breast milk typically stop breastfeeding earlier than peers, raising concerns about infant health. The research suggests inadequate lactation support may contribute to this trend.
Women in developed nations with strong Catholic heritage less likely to breastfeed
A study published in BMJ Global Health found that women living in developed Western nations with a strong Catholic heritage are less likely to breastfeed. The research suggests that breastfeeding promotion policies should be adapted to better fit prevailing cultural and religious norms.
New ingredient in baby formula helps support immune system, more like breastfed babies
A new study shows that babies fed infant formula with a structurally identical version of 2'-fucosyllactose (2'-FL), the most abundant HMO found in human milk, had an immune response more like breastfed babies. This breakthrough research provides hope for parents who need or choose to use infant formula.
Large-scale program effectively promotes and supports healthy breastfeeding in Asia
A large-scale program combining interpersonal counseling, mass media, and community mobilization significantly improved breastfeeding practices in Bangladesh and Viet Nam. Breastfeeding rates rose from 18.9% to 57.8% in Viet Nam and from 48.5% to 87.6% in Bangladesh, with positive impacts on early initiation and exclusive breastfeeding.
Providing interventions during pregnancy and after birth to support breastfeeding recommended
The USPSTF recommends providing interventions to support breastfeeding, which can increase duration and rates of breastfeeding. However, nearly half of mothers in the US stop breastfeeding by 6 months, with disparities among younger mothers and disadvantaged communities.
A key to unlocking the mystery of triple negative breast cancer
A study at McGill University Health Centre found that women with tumors expressing the prolactin receptor had a less aggressive breast cancer and better prognosis. The research suggests screening for the prolactin receptor could indicate which patients might benefit from new treatments, potentially revolutionizing breast cancer therapies.
Post-breastfeeding tissue remodeling explained by new research
A new study from the University of Manchester explains the process of post-breastfeeding tissue remodeling, discovering that milk-producing cells are transformed into cannibalistic cell-eaters. The study found a key role for the protein Rac1 in this cellular switch, which helps reshape the breast back to its normal state after weaning.
Breast milk protein safely reduces hospital infections in preemies
Researchers found that lactoferrin, a protein in breast milk, reduced hospital-acquired infections by 50% among premature infants. The study also measured the safety of feeding lactoferrin to newborns, with no adverse effects identified.
New technique for quickly diagnosing breastfeeding pain developed by Ben-Gurion U.
Researchers at Ben-Gurion University of the Negev have developed a new technique using a dermatoscope to quickly diagnose breastfeeding pain. The method allows for 10-fold magnification and a three-dimensional image, enabling accurate identification of causes of nipple pain.
The Lancet: Policies and programs to support early child development a 'wise investment' as 250 million children at risk of not reaching their full potential
A study published in The Lancet highlights the importance of providing nurturing care and supporting parenting practices to help children reach their full potential. The analysis estimates that 250 million children are at risk of poor development due to extreme poverty and stunting, with significant costs for countries and individuals.
Asthma gene's effect on respiratory symptoms in infancy depends on breastfeeding status
A new study found that breastfeeding can decrease respiratory symptoms in infants with asthma-related genetic profiles by 27%. The study, which included 368 infants from Switzerland, sheds light on how gene-environment interaction can be modified by breastfeeding.
Breast cancer mortality lower in women who breastfeed
A new study found that breastfeeding for longer than 6 months is associated with reduced breast cancer-specific and overall survival among women treated for breast cancer. The study, published in Breastfeeding Medicine, confirms the long-term maternal health benefits of breastfeeding.
Increasing nursing mothers' vitamin D levels may benefit babies
A new study from the University of Otago found that high-dose monthly vitamin D supplements for breastfeeding mothers can significantly increase their babies' vitamin D levels. This is particularly important as exclusive breastfeeding increases the risk of infant vitamin D deficiency, leading to conditions like rickets.
Breast milk sugar may protect babies against deadly infection
A study found that naturally-occurring sugars in breast milk, particularly lacto-n-difucohexaose I, may protect babies against Group B streptococcus infection. Women who produced this sugar were less likely to have the bacteria in their gut and their babies were also less likely to get it from birth.
Are expecting moms as well-prepared as they should be to breastfeed?
A global survey of 1,044 healthcare providers reveals that most expectant mothers delay discussing breastfeeding techniques until after delivery or even before the baby arrives. However, experts emphasize the importance of planning and preparation in overcoming breastfeeding challenges. To support expectant mothers, Lansinoh has develo...
Breastfeeding twice as likely after home births than hospital births
A study by Trinity College Dublin found that home births are associated with higher breastfeeding rates due to midwife-led care, skin-to-skin contact, and reduced stress. In contrast, hospital births have been linked to lower breastfeeding rates due to interventions, pain-relieving medications, and formula supplementation.
New method opens up the possibility of customizing breast milk for premature children
Breast milk from women who give premature birth differs in macro and micro nutrients, with higher levels of certain nutrients to compensate for the baby's underdevelopment. The new method offers a possibility to customize milk for premature infants.
Breastfeeding associated with better brain development and neurocognitive outcomes
A new study of 180 pre-term infants found that those who received predominantly breast milk during their NICU hospitalization had larger deep nuclear gray matter volume and better IQs, academic achievements, memory, and motor function. Breast milk intake correlated with improved cognitive outcomes at age 7.
Breastfeeding alters maternal metabolism and protects against diabetes
A recent study found that breastfeeding for over three months postpartum alters maternal metabolism, producing lower concentrations of branched-chain amino acids and phospholipids. This change in metabolites is linked to reduced insulin resistance and a lower risk of developing type 2 diabetes.
In-hospital formula feeding, family history help explain breastfeeding gaps
Researchers found that black mothers were nine times more likely to be given formula in the hospital than white mothers, while Hispanic mothers had higher breastfeeding rates due to family history. The study suggests that hospitals and policy makers consider these factors to reduce racial and ethnic disparities
HIV therapy for breastfeeding mothers can virtually eliminate transmission to babies
A clinical trial found that HIV-infected mothers taking a three-drug antiretroviral regimen during breastfeeding can virtually eliminate HIV transmission to their infants. The study, which included over 2,400 pairs from sub-Saharan Africa and India, showed nearly all babies survived their first year of life.
Garlic aroma found in breast milk
Researchers at FAU found garlic aroma in breast milk due to AMS metabolite formation. Further research is needed to clarify potential impact on infants' eating habits and food preferences.
Breastfeeding gaps between white, black, and Hispanic mothers in the US
A recent study by Chapman University found significant racial disparities in breastfeeding rates among US mothers, with Black mothers being nine times more likely to receive formula in the hospital than white mothers. The research also identified higher poverty rates and lower education levels as contributing factors, while a strong fa...
Study confirms that breast is best for premature babies' hearts
A study published in Pediatrics found that exclusive breastfeeding improved heart volume and function in premature babies, with those consuming more breastmilk having better outcomes as adults. The research suggests that breastfeeding may be able to mitigate the negative effects of premature birth on cardiac development.
Breastfeeding, antibiotics before weaning and BMI in later childhood
A study found that breastfeeding for a long duration was associated with lower rates of postweaning antibiotic courses and decreased body mass index (BMI) in later childhood. The benefits may be attributed to the development of intestinal microbiota, which is dependent on an infant's diet.
Health concerns about global baby formula boom
A global increase in baby formula sales, especially in East Asia, raises concerns about the health of millions of mothers and their children. The study highlights the need for governments to regulate marketing and ensure supportive work policies for breastfeeding mothers.
Babies fed directly from breast may be at less risk for ear infections
Researchers at Nationwide Children's Hospital found that breastfeeding for six months reduces the risk of ear infections by 30% and diarrhea by 25%. However, pumping breast milk from a bottle also provides some protection against ear infections and may reduce diarrhea risk compared to formula feeding.
Sexual transmission involved in tail end of Ebola epidemic
A study published in Virus Evolution found that unconventional transmission routes like semen and breast milk contributed to the tail-end of the Ebola epidemic in Sierra Leone. The research used real-time sequencing of Ebola virus genomes to track the source of infection for some final cases.
Scans reveal babies of mothers with gestational diabetes have more body fat
A new study published in Diabetes Care found that babies born to mothers with gestational diabetes have 16% more body fat at two months old compared to babies born to healthy mothers. The research used MRI scanning to measure body fat in 86 babies, revealing significant differences in body composition despite no differences at birth.
As exposure to chemical rises, so does risk of ending breastfeeding early
A study found that women with high levels of PFOA during pregnancy had a higher risk of ending breastfeeding early. The study analyzed data from 336 mothers and their children in Cincinnati, where PFOA levels were more than twice the national average.
Antibodies in breast milk help newborn mice tolerate good gut microbes
A new study reveals that breast milk immunoglobulin G (IgG) antibodies play a critical role in helping newborn mice tolerate beneficial gut microbes. This finding challenges previous research suggesting IgA antibodies are primarily responsible for teaching the neonatal immune system to tolerate gut microbes.
Breastfeeding is good for yet another reason, researchers discover
Researchers at UC Berkeley discover that antibodies in mother's milk help promote a healthy balance between gut microbes and the mammalian host, preventing chronic inflammatory conditions. The study sheds light on how these antibodies interact with the newborn's immune system to establish lifelong immune responses.
Breastfeeding app shows promise in supporting first-time mothers
A mobile phone app providing supportive texts and an online community increased breastfeeding rates among new mothers, with 95% continuing to breastfeed three months postpartum. The app also boosted confidence in breastfeeding issues, leading to higher rates of exclusive breastfeeding.
Breast milk linked to significant early brain growth in preemies
A study found that premature babies fed mostly breast milk had larger brains and more brain tissue than those given little or no breast milk. The researchers used MRI scans to measure brain volume and cortical surface area, and the results showed a significant correlation between breast milk consumption and brain development.
Study suggests breastmilk promotes brain development in preemies
A new study suggests that breastmilk consumption can promote brain development in premature infants, leading to better developmental outcomes. The research found a positive correlation between the amount of breastmilk consumed and increased brain volume and cortical surface area in preterm babies.
Research reveals a new secret to the miracle of breast milk
Researchers at the Walter and Eliza Hall Institute have uncovered a crucial mechanism behind rich milk production in lactation. Breast cells develop two nuclei during pregnancy, allowing for optimal milk production, which is essential for newborn survival. This discovery sheds new light on the intricate processes involved in lactation.
The unique biology of human breast milk
Breast milk plays a crucial role in shaping the infant's immune system and gut microbiome by favoring the colonization of specific bacterial groups. After one month, breast milk composition transitions to support infant growth with increased fat and nutrients.
SSRI antidepressants promote bone loss during lactation
Researchers found that SSRI antidepressants cause decreased bone density in mothers during lactation, leading to higher risks of fractures. Folic acid supplementation may mitigate this effect, suggesting women may need more folic acid while breast-feeding.
Breastfeeding, vaccinations help reduce ear infection rates in babies
A new study from the University of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston finds that higher rates of breastfeeding and vaccination significantly reduce the incidence of ear infections in babies. The study also suggests that lower smoking rates contribute to this decline.
Penn experts warn that touting 'naturalness' of breastfeeding could backfire
Researchers from Penn Medicine warn that labelling public health initiatives as 'natural' could lead to harmful decision-making by some parents. They argue that this messaging undermines important health practices, such as childhood vaccination.
Victims of violence stop breastfeeding sooner
A Norwegian study found that women who experienced childhood sexual abuse are 22% more likely to stop breastfeeding before four months. Women exposed to multiple types of violence have a 41% greater chance of stopping early. Breastfeeding helps mothers' health, but trauma can hinder it.
Work climate contributes significantly to working moms' decision to breastfeed
A new study by the University of Houston found that supervisor and co-worker attitudes significantly impact working mothers' decisions to breastfeed. Women with supportive supervisors were eight times more likely to continue exclusive breastfeeding. The study highlights the importance of workplace climate in supporting breastfeeding mo...
Child care providers need more education, training on benefits of breastfeeding, human milk
A study by University of Pennsylvania School of Nursing found that 60% of child care centers do not have staff trained on the benefits of breastfeeding and human milk. The researchers recommend widespread education for child care providers and staff to ensure adherence to breastfeeding support guidelines.
Questions over safety of giving newborns mother's vaginal fluids
Newborns may develop severe infections from exposure to vaginal bacteria, experts warn. Encouraging breast feeding and avoiding unnecessary antibiotics may be more important than vaginal seeding for infant health.
Breast milk sugars promote healthy infant growth through gut microbiome
Researchers found that breast milk sugars containing sialic acid promote healthy infant growth by interacting with the gut microbiome. The study suggests that these sugars may be key components of breast milk necessary for infant health, and could lead to improved infant formulas and therapeutic foods.
Children breastfeeding after first birthday should take vitamin D supplements, study says
Children breastfeeding after their first birthday should take a vitamin D supplement to prevent health problems like rickets. Vitamin D levels in breastfed children decrease rapidly after the first birthday, increasing the risk of deficiency by up to 29% by age three.
Diabetes during pregnancy associated with increased risk of low milk supply
A new study published in Breastfeeding Medicine found a significant association between diabetes during pregnancy and low milk supply. Women with maternal glucose intolerance were more likely to experience lactation difficulties, highlighting the need for targeted therapies to support breastfeeding mothers.
Where infants sleep may affect how long they are breastfed
A study of 678 women found that frequent bed-sharing with infants and a strong motivation to breastfeed were linked to longer breastfeeding durations. This challenges recommendations against bed-sharing due to SIDS fears, suggesting these practices may hinder some mothers from achieving their breastfeeding goals.
Study shows maternal diet alters the breast milk microbiome and microbial gene content
A recent study found that a mother's diet during pregnancy and lactation significantly affects the composition of her breast milk microbiome. The researchers speculate that this may contribute to the establishment of the infant's gut microbiome, potentially influencing their disease susceptibility. The study provides new insights into ...
Breastfeeding could add $300 billion into the global economy
Research finds that breastfeeding can add billions to the global economy by preventing child deaths and improving cognitive abilities. Globally, improved breastfeeding rates could prevent 820,000 child deaths annually and save over $2.45 billion in treatment costs.
Increasing breastfeeding worldwide could prevent over 800000 child deaths and 20000 deaths from breast cancer every year
Boosting breastfeeding rates could save millions of lives, including those from child mortality and breast cancer. Global economic losses from not breastfeeding are estimated at US$302 billion annually.
Research: Many Latino kids struggle to reach a healthy weight by kindergarten
Research shows that Latino kids are more likely to be obese by ages 2-5 due to maternal obesity, less exclusive breastfeeding, and workplace issues. Breastfeeding can reduce obesity by 47 percent among Latino kids, but many Latina moms face barriers to initiating and maintaining breastfeeding.
Study looks at association of infant gut microbiome, delivery mode and feeding
A study of 102 infants found associations between the infant's gut microbiome composition and delivery method, as well as feeding practices. The research suggests that differences in the microbiome composition may be linked to short- and long-term health outcomes.
Low zinc levels may suggest potential breast-feeding problems
Research suggests that genetic variation in the ZnT2 protein may be common in women and associated with abnormal zinc levels in breast milk. Women with this variation may have trouble breastfeeding and their milk may contain lower than normal amounts of zinc, posing a risk to exclusively breastfed infants.
Breastfeeding is key component of World Bank's new 'Power of Nutrition' fund
The World Bank's new 'Power of Nutrition' fund aims to promote breastfeeding and reduce undernutrition in developing countries. Investments in this area could transform the health and economy of these nations, particularly during the critical first two years of a child's life.
Breastfeeding lowers risk of type 2 diabetes following gestational diabetes
A recent study published in Annals of Internal Medicine found that breastfeeding significantly lowers the risk of developing type 2 diabetes after gestational diabetes. Women who exclusively or mostly breastfed for at least two months after giving birth were half as likely to develop type 2 diabetes within two years after delivery.
The Lancet: Breastfeeding babies protected against HIV infection from their HIV-positive mothers with 12 months of liquid antiretroviral drug treatment
A study found that providing babies with up to 12 months of liquid formula HIV drugs while breastfeeding with their HIV-positive mothers is highly effective in protecting them from infection. The study showed that rates of HIV infection fell to 0.2% when the drug was taken, and that adherence remained a key factor for success.
Breast is best, but might not protect from allergies
A new study found no significant difference in allergies between children who were breastfed and those formula-fed. The study examined 194 patients aged 4-18 years old with hay fever and similar numbers of kids with asthma, eczema, and food allergy.