Researchers at the University of California, Riverside have shown that alcohol consumption during breastfeeding can impact the health of newborns and identified specific outcomes linked to ethanol exposure. The findings were published in Frontiers in Neuroscience.
Earlier work established that drinking during pregnancy can alter the brain development and behavior of offspring. Yet, until now, the consequences of alcohol use while a mother is nursing were not fully understood, leaving a gap in guidance for new mothers and healthcare providers.
In the current study, lactating mice received ethanol starting on the sixth day after birth and continued until weaning. The results align with broader developmental research: animals exposed to ethanol early in life often show smaller physical size and reduced brain weight, alongside behavioral changes. These mice demonstrated increased risk-taking and heightened activity levels in later assessments, suggesting lasting effects on neural circuits that govern impulse control and exploration.
While many expectant mothers limit alcohol during pregnancy, adherence to restrictions during breastfeeding varies. The research adds to a growing body of evidence that cautions against alcohol intake during the lactation period. The authors emphasize that avoiding alcohol while nursing may reduce potential risks to the infant and support healthier developmental trajectories for the child. This work contributes to a broader public health message about maternal nutrition, substance exposure, and the importance of evidence-based guidance for new families. At the same time, it invites further inquiry into how timing, dosage, and maternal metabolism influence the degree of impact across species and how these findings translate to human populations in North America. Future studies may help refine recommendations and support mothers in making informed choices that balance feeding goals with potential developmental considerations.