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A recent study conducted by researchers at CU Boulder, published in the journal npj Metabolic Health and Disease, emphasizes the significant advantages of breastfeeding on infant brain development, even for those who may struggle with exclusively breastfeeding.
Lead author Tanya Alderete, an assistant professor of integrative physiology at CU Boulder, emphasized that despite challenges with exclusive breastfeeding, providing as much breast milk as possible can offer substantial benefits for the baby.
The study not only underscores the importance of breastfeeding but also identifies specific metabolites that could potentially be included in infant formula to optimize healthy brain development. Additionally, the research alerts manufacturers about potentially concerning compounds that should be minimized in infant formula to support neurodevelopment.
The research delved into the “fecal metabolome,” examining the diverse collection of metabolites present in the gut and shed through stool. Metabolites, produced by gut bacteria during food metabolism, impact the brain and other organs, influencing overall health.
The study involved 112 infants, analyzing their fecal samples at 1- and 6-month intervals. Infants were categorized based on breastfeeding versus formula feeding. At age 2, the children underwent cognitive, motor, and language tests.
Findings revealed significant differences in metabolite levels among infants in various feeding groups. Notably, specific metabolites associated with breast milk were linked to improved cognitive test scores in toddlers, while those linked with formula feeding were correlated with lower scores.
Cholesterol emerged as a beneficial metabolite found in higher amounts in breastfed infants, correlating with better cognitive scores, crucial for healthy brain cell connections. Conversely, formula-fed infants exhibited higher levels of cadaverine, a concerning metabolite associated with lower test scores.
The study emphasizes the importance of breastfeeding whenever possible, as breast milk-associated metabolites significantly contributed to better cognitive outcomes. It also highlighted the need for vigilance in reducing harmful compounds, such as cadaverine, in formula milk.
The study offers encouragement for parents struggling with exclusive breastfeeding, suggesting that any increase in the proportion of breast milk relative to formula can positively impact infant development. Alderete emphasizes that while breastfeeding is crucial, it’s one of many factors influencing brain development. The research aims to guide formula manufacturers in enhancing their products and emphasizes that every effort toward breastfeeding, regardless of exclusivity, contributes to a child’s well-being.
