Lactation Performance of Akamba Mothers, Kenya. Breast Feeding Behaviour, Breast Milk Yield and Composition

Abstract

During a lean season and a postharvest season of the food staple maize of rural Kenya studies measuring breast milk yield were made. Yield was measured by the test weighing technique. Milk samples were collected as well and chemical composition was determined. 5 locally recruited female field workers stayed with the study households for the 4-day study period. A nutritionist supervised the field worker and information on duration of breast feeding and food habits during lactation was collected by interview. A total of 85 mothers at different stages of lactation were studied. Breast feeding was practiced until 18-24 months. Average yeild per 24 hours for the seasons combined was 778 ml at 0-1 month and 301 ml at 18-23. Yields during the harvest season approximated those reported in the U. S. and Europe and were lower in the lean season. During the period of demand feeding (first 4 months) day and night volumes were compared and found comparable; thereafter infants suckled more frequently at night. In terms of milk composition protein content was comparable to that found in developed countries but fat calcium retinol and riboflavin were lower; whereas levels of beta carotene thiamine and vitamin C were higher. Fatty acid composition studies showed high levels of lauric and myristic acid. It is concluded that lactation capacity of Akamba mothers is all and all comparable to well-nourished Western women. No explanation for the lower yield of breast milk during lean season was attempted.