Maternal Factors Affecting the Macronutrient Composition of Transitional Human Milk.

Chung Ja Ryoo,Nam Mi Kang

doi:10.3390/ijerph19063308

Abstract

This study investigated the influence of selected maternal factors on the macronutrient composition and energy of human milk (HM). The study enrolled 159 breastfeeding mothers from five postpartum care centers in Seoul, Korea. Their gestational weeks were 37–42 weeks, they had no complications before and after childbirth, and were at 7–14 days postpartum. They provided data using structured questionnaires on general characteristics, stress, sleep quality, spousal support, and dietary intake. Breastfeeding assessment (LATCH) was investigated by qualified nurses, and each mother provided one sample of HM. The HM composition was analyzed using the Miris® HM analyzer. The relationships between variables were analyzed using Pearson’s correlation analysis, and a linear regression analysis was performed to verify the main variables. It was found that maternal dietary intake was related to HM composition as the %energy from carbohydrates (β = 0.86, p < 0.01) and %energy from fat (β = 0.77, p < 0.05) showed positive relationships with HM energy. The LATCH score was positively related to HM energy (β = 0.17, p < 0.05). In contrast, postpartum stress, sleep quality, and spousal support were not associated with HM macronutrient composition. In conclusion, HM macronutrients and energy content were associated with maternal dietary intake and LATCH scores, but not with postpartum stress, sleep quality, and spousal support.

Highlights

Human milk (HM) is an optimal source of nutrition for the growth and development of babies
The purpose of this study is to identify factors affecting the HM macronutrients and energy of breastfeeding mothers in Korea, examining postpartum stress, sleep quality, spousal support, and dietary intake of macronutrients and breastfeeding assessment (LATCH) in breastfeeding mothers who are at 2 weeks postpartum
This study examined the effect of postpartum maternal factors on HM macronutrients and energy

Summary

Introduction

Human milk (HM) is an optimal source of nutrition for the growth and development of babies. It is made up of very diverse and complex ingredients. That is, macronutrients such as carbohydrates (lactose), proteins, fats, and various vitamins and minerals, as well as various bioactive factors, immunoglobulins, metabolites, and microorganisms that play specific physiological roles are included in the HM. Breastfeeding may provide the best start to life, offering long-term and short-term health, nutritional and emotional benefits to mothers and babies [1]. Breastfeeding is positively associated with the enhancement of human capital, including improved performance in intelligence tests, greater academic achievement, and higher income compared to formula-fed infants [2].

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