Polish scientists from the Medical University of Warsaw have discovered a connection between a breastfeeding woman’s breast size and the nutritional content of her milk. The research was published in the scientific journal broadcasting American Journal of Human Biology (AJHB).
Previous studies have examined the impact of characteristics such as body fat, diet, and feeding frequency on milk composition, but the relationship between breast size and milk composition has not yet been analyzed in detail.
137 mothers who exclusively breastfed participated in the new study. Data collection included anthropometric measurements such as chest circumference, body mass index, and body fat percentage.
Breast milk samples were collected in mid-morning, when the optimal time for standardization of milk composition measurements was determined. Using a special human milk composition analyzer, scientists analyzed milk samples for energy, fat, protein and lactose content.
Researchers were surprised to find a negative correlation between breast size and lactose concentration in breast milk. Considering all physiological factors, it was observed that women with larger breasts produced milk with lower lactose content than women with small breasts.
Scientists noted that the inverse relationship between breast size and lactose concentration may be due to hormonal levels. Larger breasts are associated with higher levels of the hormones estradiol and progesterone, which can reduce overall milk production and inhibit lactose synthesis through levels of a specific protein called alpha-lactalbumin.
Experts added that there is no significant relationship between breast size and other macronutrients such as fat and protein.
The study also found that feeding frequency and maternal caloric intake also affected lactose concentrations. More frequent breastfeeding sessions were associated with higher lactose levels, likely due to increased secretion of prolactin, a hormone that stimulates milk production. On the other hand, higher maternal caloric intake was associated with lower lactose concentrations, likely due to effects on glucose metabolism and availability of lactose synthesis.
Scientists believe their discovery will help provide more accurate breastfeeding advice.
Previous scientists learned They produce food from human milk using genetically modified tobacco bushes.