Researchers at the University of California, Riverside have proven that drinking while breastfeeding affects the health of newborns and identified specific effects of ethanol exposure. The research was published in the journal Frontiers in Neuroscience.
Previous studies have shown that alcohol consumption during pregnancy can alter the brain and behavioral development of offspring. However, the consequences of maternal alcohol consumption during breastfeeding are not fully understood.
In the new study, the scientists fed lactating mice ethanol from the sixth day after birth until the mice were weaned. Adult mice exposed to ethanol early in development have smaller bodies and brains. In addition, animals behaved more risky and showed hyperactive behavior.
Most often, women limit their alcohol consumption during pregnancy, but do not comply with the restriction during breastfeeding. The study proved that women should avoid drinking alcohol while breastfeeding.