Optimal Infant Growth Research Articles

PENGARUH PEMBERIAN EDUKASI AUDIOVISUAL TENTANG PERAWATAN PAYUDARA DENGAN KELANCARAN ASI PADA IBU NIFAS DI WILAYAH KERJA PUSKESMAS BALOI PERMAI KOTA BATAM TAHUN 2024

Exclusive breastfeeding is a critical step in preparing a healthy generation from an early stage. This study highlights the importance of exclusive breastfeeding for infant growth and development, as well as reducing the risk of disease. Although the WHO and UNICEF recommend exclusive breastfeeding for the first six months of a baby's life, coverage in Indonesia has not yet met the established targets. Contributing factors to this low coverage include a lack of knowledge among mothers about breastfeeding and breast care. The purpose of this study is to evaluate the effectiveness of audiovisual education in improving postnatal mothers' knowledge about breast care and supporting the success of exclusive breastfeeding. The research method employed a quantitative approach with a pretest-posttest design on a group of postnatal mothers. An audiovisual educational intervention was provided, and knowledge about breast care and exclusive breastfeeding practices were measured before and after the intervention. The results showed a significant increase in mothers' knowledge about breast care from 40% to 80%, and exclusive breastfeeding coverage increased from 60% to 90% after the intervention. The Wilcoxon test indicated that this increase was significant with a sig (2-tailed) value of 0.000. In conclusion, audiovisual education is an effective method for improving postnatal mothers' knowledge about breast care and supporting the success of exclusive breastfeeding. This effort is expected to contribute to increased coverage of exclusive breastfeeding in Indonesia, supporting optimal infant growth and development, and reducing infant morbidity and mortality rates

Impact of Mothers' Weaning Knowledge, and Practice on Infants' Health: A National Assessment

ABSTRACTBackgroundProper feeding practices are essential for optimal infant growth and development, particularly during the first 2 years of life. Maternal knowledge regarding weaning plays a critical role in shaping these practices and in influencing infant health outcomes.ObjectivesThis national study aimed to assess maternal knowledge about infant feeding and weaning practices among Saudi mothers with infants under 2 years old. Additionally, it examined the relationship between maternal knowledge and key infant health parameters and identified the maternal factors associated with better weaning knowledge.MethodsA cross‐sectional survey was conducted from January to March 2020 targeting 721 Saudi mothers of infants aged 4–18 months. Participants were recruited from primary healthcare centres across five regions of Saudi Arabia. Structured face‐to‐face interviews were used to collect data, and χ2 tests and multinomial logistic regression were used to look for links between what mothers knew, how they weaned their infants, and signs of their infants' health.ResultsMost mothers (52.4%) were aged 25–35 years, and 72.4% had attained higher education. A statistically significant relationship was found between maternal weaning knowledge and age (p = 0.010). Mothers with moderate to high weaning knowledge demonstrated better practices, including vitamin D supplementation, the gradual introduction of solid foods and adherence to hygiene practices. These mothers also had infants with healthier growth metrics, including normal head circumference and absence of anaemia. However, exclusive breastfeeding rates were notably low, underscoring the challenges in breastfeeding adherence.ConclusionWhile maternal weaning knowledge in Saudi Arabia is generally high, the low prevalence of exclusive breastfeeding signals the need for targeted public health interventions. Educational programs and greater societal support for breastfeeding are recommended to enhance maternal practice and infant health.

Consecutive Lactation, Infant Birth Weight and Sex Do Not Associate with Milk Production and Infant Milk Intake in Breastfeeding Women.

Optimal infant growth is reliant on the sufficient intake of human milk. Studies in animal models speculate that multiparous mothers produce a higher milk yield compared to primiparous mothers. We aimed to examine if there are relationships between consecutive lactations and infant demographics and both maternal 24 h milk production (MP) and infant milk intake (MI). Lactating mothers 1-6 months postpartum (n = 36; 25 fully breastfeeding (FBF), 11 supplementing with commercial milk formula (partly breastfeeding (PBF)) test-weighed their infants for 24 h during two consecutive lactations and provided demographic information. Twenty-four-hour MP by breast, infant MI (including mothers' own expressed milk and formula), breastfeeding and expressing frequencies were measured. The statistical analysis used linear mixed modelling accounting for infant birth weight (FBF) or time postpartum (PBF) and for the random effect of the participant. In the FBF group, there were no differences between lactations in terms of MP (p = 0.31) or the infant mother's own MI (p = 0.14). The birth weight was higher for consecutive lactation infants (p = 0.008). Infant sex was not associated with MP (p = 0.12) or the infant mother's own MI (p = 0.090). In the PBF group, the breastfeeding frequency (p = 0.042), MP (p = 0.025) and infant mother's own MI (p = 0.019) were higher in consecutive lactations whilst formula intake was lower (p = 0.004). This study suggests that in fully breastfeeding women, there is no significant effect of consecutive lactation or infant sex on MP or infant MI during established lactation.

Global Levels and Variations of Cholesterol and Polar Lipids of Human Milk: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis.

Polar lipids and cholesterol are vital structural components of the milk fat globule membrane, playing a crucial role in infant growth and development; however, systematic global reports on their content in human milk are currently lacking. This study conducted a systematic literature search in Chinese and English databases, including 69,392 human milk samples from 96 studies. A random-effects model based on global data was used to assess the content of total lipids, cholesterol, gangliosides, and phospholipids in human milk and their variations with the lactation stage, geographical region, and sample year. The mean contents of total lipids, cholesterol, and total phospholipids were 2774.15 mg/100 g (95% CI: 2614.88, 2933.42 mg/100 g), 21.15 mg/100 g (18.35, 23.95 mg/100 g), and 70.72 mg/100 g (68.84, 72.60 mg/100 g), respectively, with gangliosides GM3 and GD3 at 0.63 mg/100 g (0.54, 0.72 mg/100 g) and 0.34 mg/100 g (0.32, 0.36 mg/100 g). The major phospholipids SM, PC, PE, PS, and PI averaged 24.19 mg/100 g (23.17 and 25.21 mg/100 g), 21.27 mg/100 g (19.92 and 22.62 mg/100 g), 18.28 mg/100 g (17.46 and 19.10 mg/100 g), 2.86 mg/100 g (2.32 and 3.40 mg/100 g), and 2.12 mg/100 g (1.75 and 2.49 mg/100 g). With the progression of lactation, total lipids, gangliosides, and most phospholipids (SM, PC, PS, PI) increased, while cholesterol and PE decreased. Over the years, total lipids, gangliosides, and PE showed an upward trend, whereas cholesterol and most phospholipids declined. Human milk from Europe had lower total lipid and cholesterol levels compared with other regions. While the total phospholipid content did not show significant regional differences (P > 0.05), variations in phospholipid composition were observed. These findings emphasize the importance of understanding spatiotemporal changes in human milk lipids to develop personalized nutrition strategies that support optimal infant growth and development.

Effectiveness Of Amino Acid Formula For Management Of Cow's Milk Allergy In Infants And Children

Cow's milk allergy is one of the significant health problems in infants and children that impacts their quality of life. As a solution, amino acid-based infant formula has become an innovative alternative to address this challenge. However, the effectiveness of their use requires further substantiation through previous studies. This study aims to evaluate the effectiveness of amino acid-based formula in the management of cow's milk allergy in infants and children. The results showed that amino acid-based formula is an effective solution in managing cow's milk allergy. It is completely allergen-free, easy to digest, and supports optimal growth and development of infants and children. The use of this formula significantly reduces allergy symptoms by avoiding exposure to cow's milk protein, while improving the quality of life of infants and children with cow's milk allergy. Thus, the results of this study confirm the importance of amino acid-based formulas as a safe and efficient treatment option for infants and children with cow's milk allergy.

Comparative Nutritional Status of Infants with Exclusive Breastfeeding and Formula Milk at Puskesmas Dadok Tunggul Hitam, Padang City

Exclusive breastfeeding is crucial for optimal growth and development of infants, as it provides essential nutrition and immunity. However, in Padang City, the coverage of exclusive breastfeeding varies significantly. Data from 2021 shows that the highest coverage is at Bungus Health Center, with 86.9%, while the lowest is at Dadok Tunggul Hitam Health Center, at only 25.67%. This discrepancy raises concerns about the nutritional status of infants who do not receive exclusive breastfeeding, as nutritional status is a key indicator of overall health and development. This study investigates the differences in nutritional status between infants who receive exclusive breastfeeding and those given formula milk at Dadok Tunggul Hitam Health Center. This descriptive-analytic research employs a cross-sectional approach with 96 infants over 6 months old. Data was collected through interviews using questionnaires and analyzed with T-test. The results show that the average nutritional status of infants receiving exclusive breastfeeding is -2.23, while for those receiving formula milk, it is -2.04. This significant difference indicates that infants who receive exclusive breastfeeding have better nutritional status. The study recommends that healthcare workers, especially midwives at the health centre, be more proactive in providing information about the benefits of exclusive breastfeeding to improve infant nutritional status, particularly in areas with low coverage.

Family function, social support, postpartum depression, and maternal parenting practices: Their impact on infant growth

The postpartum period presents challenges for mothers; requiring adaptation to new roles and family functions while emphasizing the importance of social support. This transition increases the risk of postpartum depression, affecting the mother's ability to care for her baby. During the first year of birth, a baby depends entirely on the mother to grow optimally. This research aimed to analyze the direct and indirect influence of family function, social support, and postpartum depression on infant growth. The study followed a cross-sectional design and involved 130 mothers of six-month-old babies as respondents in Bogor, selected through a random sampling, and was conducted from September to April 2024. The findings revealed that maternal health-nutrition parenting practices affect infant growth (β= 0.320). There was a negative correlation between social support and postpartum depression through family function (β = -0.133). The family function positively affected maternal parenting practices through postpartum depression (β = 0.103) and contributed to infant growth through postpartum depression (β = 0.166). The study emphasizes the significance of enhancing family function to reduce postpartum depression, enhance maternal parenting practices related to nutrition and healthcare, and support optimal infant growth while reducing the risk of stunting.

Contribution of Emotional, and Physical Support of Fathers in Exclusive Breastfeeding

Exclusive breastfeeding coverage in Bogor Regency remains low, affecting infant growth and development during the first six months of life. Paternal support, as a key determinant, has been insufficiently explored. This study assessed the types of support fathers provide to breastfeeding mothers. Exclusive breastfeeding is a critical effort to support the optimal growth and development of infants during the first 6 months of life. Nevertheless, exclusive breastfeeding coverage continues to be insufficient in certain regions, including Bogor Regency. This study aimed to analyze the relationship between paternal support and the success of exclusive breastfeeding. The study employed a quantitative design with a cross-sectional approach, involving 221 parent pairs selected through purposive sampling. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire that assessed various forms of paternal support, including physical, emotional, and educational assistance. The data were analyzed using chi-square tests to determine the statistical associations. The results revealed that instrumental support—such as helping to change diapers and holding the baby—was not significantly associated with exclusive breastfeeding practices (p > 0.05). Conversely, paternal support in the form of accompanying mothers during consultations with health workers demonstrated a significant association with exclusive breastfeeding success (p = 0.023 < 0.05) This study confirms the critical role of educative and emotional support from fathers in promoting exclusive breastfeeding success. The findings highlight the strategic role of fathers in promoting exclusive breastfeeding and support the development of family-based interventions to increase its coverage.

An investigation into the parental attitudes and challenges faced when introducing solid foods to infants in Ireland

The introduction of complementary foods, also known as 'weaning', refers to the process of introducing solid foods into an infant’s diet, alongside breast milk or infant formula milk(1). According to the Food Safety Authority of Ireland (FSAI) guidelines, weaning should commence around 6 months of age, with no earlier or later than 17 or 26 weeks, respectively(2). These guidelines provide evidence-based recommendations aimed at promoting optimal infant health, growth, and development(3). The aim of this study was to gain an insight into parental attitudes towards weaning and the common challenges faced when introducing solids.Data was collected using a 16-item questionnaire. Parents of infants aged 0–12 months were recruited through an online parenting club and descriptive statistics were performed using IBM SPSS (V29) to determine percentages.Of the 215 participants, 64% (n = 137) had initiated solid food introduction to their infants, with the age of these infants ranging from 4-12 months. Of those, the majority (80%, n = 109) followed FSAI guidelines(2), introducing new foods daily or every few days. The main factors guiding this decision were signs of readiness and developmental milestones, cited by 76% of respondents (n = 104). Among those who began weaning (n = 137), 70% reported a positive experience, though the majority (92%, n = 126) encountered challenges along the way. These included infant’s refusal to eat (34%, n = 47), allergy concerns (41%, n = 56), and difficulty determining appropriate portion sizes (48%, n = 66). Our findings showed that 12% (n = 16) of infants aged 6-9 months and 2% (n = 3) of infants aged 10-12 months had not yet been introduced to meat, poultry, or fish. Additionally, 4% of parents (n = 6) waited until their infants were at least 9 months old to introduce these foods, despite guidelines recommending early exposure to iron-rich foods(2).Most parents with infants aged 0-6 months (64%, n = 78) had not started weaning. Among them, 26% (n = 20) felt very confident about beginning the process, while 25% (n = 19) lacked confidence in introducing solid foods to their infants.Among all participants, information on weaning commonly came from family/friends (68%, n = 147), healthcare professionals (60%, n = 128), and social media (46%, n = 99). When asked about resources they would like access to, nearly two-thirds of parents (64%, n = 138) expressed interest in weaning recipe ideas. Additionally, 53% (n = 114) highlighted the need for guidelines on the appropriate amount of milk to give during weaning.In conclusion, our findings indicate that while most parents appear compliant with the recommended timing of weaning, challenges still persist. Moreover, there is a notable reliance on various sources for weaning information, with a demand for resources like weaning recipes and milk quantity guidelines. These insights highlight the importance of tailored support and education to facilitate a positive weaning experience for both parents and infants.

Growth trajectory at 24 months of preterm infants after discharge: a longitudinal study in Indonesia.

Maintaining optimal growth of preterm infants after hospital discharge remains a challenge. There has been no data on the long-term growth trajectory of preterm infants in Indonesia. We aimed to describe the growth trajectory of preterm infants up to 24 months of corrected age and its variation among gestational age groups. A longitudinal study was conducted in Cipto Mangunkusumo Hospital, Jakarta, from 2018 to 2020. All preterm infants who were discharged during the study period were included. Growth trajectory analysis used weight-for-age, length-for-ageand weight-for-length z-score of 3-month time intervals across gestational age groups using repeated measure ANOVA and generalised estimating equation regression. Length trajectory was specifically reported as a stunted proportion. Among 306 preterm infants included, most were moderate preterm (49·67 %) and low birth weight (69·93 %). Overall weight-for-age at 0 months was in the median of the curve, then decreased at 3 months but consistently increased slowly until 24 months. The weight-for-age trends were unique across gestational age groups but statistically similar (P= 0·263). The proportion of stunted gradually decreases to 13·40 % at 24 months, mostly among the moderate preterm group in the first 6 months (P< 0·001), but then becomes similar at 24 months. All subjects were in the normal range for weight-for-length but had variations in trends across gestational age groups (P< 0·001). Growth trajectory differed between weight, length and weight-for-length in the first 24 months and varied among gestational age groups. Close follow-up is crucial to ensure optimal growth after neonatal intensive care unit discharge.

Macronutrients in Human Milk and Early Childhood Growth-Is Protein the Main Driver?

Infant growth trajectories reflect current health status and may predict future obesity and metabolic diseases. Human milk is tailored to support optimal infant growth. However, nutrient intake rather than milk composition more accurately predicts growth outcomes. Although the role of protein leverage in infant growth is unclear, protein intake is important for early infancy growth. This study of exclusively breastfeeding mothers with allergies (n = 161) from the Infant Fish Oil Supplementation Study assessed relationships between intake of human milk macronutrients and infant growth. Human milk fat, protein and lactose concentrations were measured at 3 months postpartum, and infant daily intakes were estimated using an average milk intake of 800 mL/day. Higher human milk protein:energy ratio was associated with higher weight-for-age z-score at 2.5 years compared to 3 months and higher body mass index-for-age z-score change (6 months to 1 year compared to 3-6 months). Maternal atopy and birth season (summer) were negatively associated with human milk lactose concentration. Passive smoke exposure was associated with reduced energy and fat concentrations and increased lactose:energy ratio. Our results indicate that intake of human milk macronutrients may impact early childhood growth.

Knowledge, Attitudes, and Practices Regarding Exclusive Breastfeeding among Lactating Mothers in Rural Bangladesh

Background: Exclusive breastfeeding stands at the forefront of maternal and child health, serving as a fundamental pillar for ensuring the optimal growth and development of infants. It not only acts as a crucial source of nutrition but also plays a pivotal role in fortifying the physical and cognitive well-being of newborns, while simultaneously fostering a profound bond between mothers and their infants.Objective: This research seeks to gauge the level of awareness among lactating mothers regarding the significance and benefits of exclusive breastfeeding. It aims to comprehend their attitudes towards exclusive breastfeeding (EBF) and scrutinize their actual practices in implementing this vital aspect of infant care.Materials and Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted at the Department of Community Medicine, ASWMC, Jashore, in 2018. Data collection took place in the Outpatient Department (OPD) of 'Ad-din Sakina Medical College Hospital' and 'Mother &amp; Child Welfare Centre, Jashore.Results: The study demonstrates a high awareness and adherence to exclusive breastfeeding, with 94.4% aware, 90.9% knowledgeable about recommended duration, 49.9% recognizing advantages, 14.6% aware of disadvantages, and a substantial majority (92.5%) practicing exclusive breastfeeding, though 7.5% do not.Conclusion: Bridging knowledge gaps, cultivating positive attitudes, and promoting consistent breastfeeding practices emerge as crucial components of a comprehensive strategy to boost exclusive breastfeeding rates. The collaboration between healthcare providers, policymakers, and the community is indispensable for the success of such initiatives, ultimately contributing to the overall health and well-being of both infants and lactating mothers. KYAMC Journal Volume: 15, No: 01, April 2024: 46-49.

Assessment of Breastfeeding and Weaning Practices and Their Effects on Infant Growth in Western Maharashtra: A Cross-Sectional Study.

Breastfeeding provides nutrients and antibodies crucial for developing infants and their immune systems. Understanding the current breastfeeding and weaning practices helps identify areas requiring improvements to boost infant health outcomes. The World Health Organization and other health bodies recommend that babies be exclusively breastfed for the first six months of life. Then, complementary feeding should be introduced along with breastfeeding, which should be continued for up to two years or more. This study aims to analyze the perception and practices of breastfeeding and weaning among mothers with 9- to 12-month-old infants. This cross-sectional analytical study was conducted at Krishna Hospital and Research Centre, Karad, for a period of six months. A validated questionnaire developed by investigators was used as the study tool.Mothers visiting the immunization clinics with their 9- to 12-month-old infants were enrolled in the study. Infants diagnosed as having inborn metabolic disorders, diabetes, heart diseases, and congenital malformations and those who were on special feeds or diets were not included in the study. The majority of the study participants (28 [33%]) initiated weaning when the infants were six to seven months of age, with the earliest being five months (8 [10%]). Five (6%) mothers could not initiate weaning until the infants were 12 months old. The most common weaning food was dal and rice with ghee (24 [29%]). A total of 50 (60%) participants used plastic bottles for feeding, and among them, 30 (36%) mothers used bottles to give water to their infants. A total of 23 (27%) participants did not feed their infants colostrum. The most common hunger cue was crying (82 [98%]), whereas the least common cue was mouth opening (8 [9%]). The incorrect practices followed by the mothers were late initiation of breastfeeding because of which colostrum could not be fed to the neonate; incorrect breastfeeding technique, that is, feeding little milk from each side of the breast without emptying one breast completely; late or no initiation of weaning foods; and offering less amount of weaning food than that required by the infant according to its nutritional demand. Initiating breastfeeding early and continuing breastfeeds along with complimentary feeds are essential for optimal infant growth.

In vitro digestion study comparing a predigested glycerolysis product versus long-chain polyunsaturated fatty acid-rich oils (LCPUFA) as a strategy for administering LCPUFA to preterm neonates

In vitro digestion study comparing a predigested glycerolysis product versus long-chain polyunsaturated fatty acid-rich oils (LCPUFA) as a strategy for administering LCPUFA to preterm neonates

Physiology of Human Lactation and Strategies to Support Milk Supply for Breastfeeding

Physiology of Human Lactation and Strategies to Support Milk Supply for Breastfeeding

Influence of morbidity, early nutritional intake, and total energy: protein ratio on longitudinal extrauterine growth restriction of very preterm newborns at term-equivalent age: an observational study.

To evaluate the influence of early nutritional intake on the growth pattern of very preterm infants. This was an observational study including 109 newborns (< 32weeks gestational age). Perinatal morbidities, nutritional therapy (first four weeks of life), and weight, length, and head circumference (HC) growth at term-equivalent age were evaluated. Growth restriction was defined as a difference > 1.2 SD between the birth and term age measurements. Growth restriction at term-equivalent age: 52.3% (weight), 42.9% (length), and 22% (HC). Morbidities were positively correlated with nutrition therapy and negatively correlated with the total energy provision: protein ratio. The duration of parenteral nutrition, the time to reach full enteral feedings, and the total energy provision: protein ratio were significantly correlated. Nutrient intake influenced weight, length, and HC growth, and cumulative energy deficit was significantly associated with HC growth restriction. Conclusion: Perinatal morbidities interfere with nutritional therapy and early nutrient intake, leading to insufficient energy and energy provision: protein ratio for growth. What is Known: • The intake of macronutrients early in life, mainly protein, is important for the optimal growth of pretem infants. • The severity of morbidities and low gestational ages impact the nutritional management of preterm infants. What is New: • The number of morbidities, reflecting the severity of the neonatal clinical course, had a detrimental effect on the nutritional therapy and nutrients intake. • The inadequate energy provision per gram of protein ratio was significantly associated with growth restriction in all growth measures at the second week of life, persisting for head circumference up to the fourth week, highlighting the importance of its measurement, as it could be a precocious sign of development risk.

The Role of Maternal Secretor Status and Human Milk Oligosaccharides on Early Childhood Development: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.

Background: Breast milk is the gold standard of infant nutrition, delivering nutrients and bioactive molecules as needed to support optimal infant growth and cognitive development. Increasing evidence links human milk oligosaccharides (HMOs) to these early childhood development milestones. Aims: To summarize and synthesize the evidence relating to HMOs and infant brain development, physical growth, and cognitive development. In addition, HMO concentrations in secretor and nonsecretor mothers were compared via a meta-analysis. Study Design: A systematic review and meta-analysis were carried out in accordance with the PRISMA statement. This review used three databases (PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science) and was limited to English-language articles published between 2000 and June 30, 2023. Results: The initial searches yielded 245 articles, 27 of which were included in the systematic review and 12 in the meta-analysis. The meta-analysis revealed a substantial between-study heterogeneity, I2 = 97.3%. The pooled effect was 0.21 (95% CI: -0.41 to 0.83; p = 0.484), indicating that secretors had higher HMO concentrations, although this difference was not statistically significant. At one month of age, 2'FL, 3FL, and 3'SL play an important role in brain maturation and thus play a critical role in cognitive development. Secretors produce higher concentrations of 2'FL and 3'SL, explaining the benefits to infants of secretor mothers. Growth velocity was correlated to fucosylated and sialylated HMO concentrations, with lower concentrations linked to stunting. Conclusions: According to evidence from the systematically reviewed articles, HMOs are essential for a child's early development, but the extent to which they have an impact depends on maternal secretor status.

Pollutants in Breast Milk: A Scoping Review of the Most Recent Data in 2024.

Perinatal exposure to pollutants, including persistent organic pollutants (POPs) and heavy metals, poses significant risks to both mothers and children, marking this period as highly vulnerable. Despite the well-acknowledged benefits of breastfeeding, there exists a gap in comprehensive understanding regarding the impact of environmental pollutants on breast milk, underscoring the critical need for this study. Our research addresses this gap by exploring the intersection of environmental health and lactation, situated within the broader 'One Health' concept, thus contributing a novel perspective to the existing body of knowledge. This scoping review aims to examine recent research on the persistent presence of organic pollutants (POPs) and heavy metals in breast milk, thereby elucidating the environmental setting's impact on milk quality. We seek to highlight the innovative angle of our study by emphasizing the 'One Health' concept, which has not been thoroughly explored in the context of lactation and environmental pollutants. We performed a scoping review, consulting two online databases to identify articles published from 1995 to 2023 that reported on pollutants in breast milk, using the PRISMA checklist. This methodological approach underlines the comprehensive and up-to-date nature of our literature review, ensuring the relevance and timeliness of our findings. From a total of 54 relevant articles, findings indicate that POPs are present in higher concentrations in breast milk the longer the lactation period. These findings highlight the persistent and bioaccumulative nature of such contaminants, offering new insights into their long-term implications for maternal and infant health. This exposure does not appear time-sensitive, suggesting pollutants accumulated in maternal fat compartments can be excreted into human milk years after exposure, a novel finding that underscores the importance of considering long-term environmental exposures in lactation research. The presence of POPs and heavy metals in both infant formula and maternal milk underscores a critical need for further comparative studies to understand the health implications better. Our discussion extends the current dialogue on the safety of breastfeeding in polluted environments, providing a new framework for assessing risks and benefits. While breastfeeding remains the WHO-recommended nutrition for optimal infant growth, the findings emphasize the importance of continued risk reduction policies to protect mothers and infants from environmental contaminants in breast milk. Our conclusion calls for an integrated approach, combining public health, environmental science, and clinical practice to develop effective strategies for reducing exposure to environmental pollutants. This multidisciplinary perspective is a significant contribution to the field, paving the way for future research and policy development.

Likelihood of obesity in early and late childhood based on growth trajectory during infancy

BackgroundChildhood obesity rates have reached epidemic levels with Mediterranean countries reporting among the highest numbers globally. Evidence suggests early life factors, including infant growth rate, increase the likelihood of obesity later in childhood. However, optimal rates of infant growth associated with lower odds of future obesity still remain undetermined. The study aim was to determine the optimal infant growth rate associated with a lower likelihood of childhood overweight and obesity.MethodsPerinatal and anthropometric data collected from 1778 Greek preschool (2–5 years old) and 2294 Greek preadolescent (10–12 years old) children participating in the ToyBox and the Healthy Growth Study (HGS) respectively, was combined for examination. Logistic regression models and receiver operating curves were used to determine the association between infant growth rate and development of childhood overweight and obesity, as well as optimal infant growth rate, respectively.ResultsRapid weight gain during the first 6 months of life was positively associated with overweight and obesity in preadolescent children (OR:1.36, 95% CI: 1.13–1.63). Optimal cut-off points for several infancy growth rate indices (i.e., WAZ, WLZ, HAZ, BAZ) associated with a lower likelihood of overweight and obesity in preschool years and preadolescence were also identified.ConclusionsThe current findings could possibly set the basis for healthcare professionals and families to better monitor, assess, and control infant growth rates, thus providing another obesity prevention strategy from early life. These findings, however, and the recommended optimal cut-offs need to be confirmed through further prospective research.

Oxidized linoleic acid metabolites regulate neuronal morphogenesis in vitro.

Linoleic acid (LA, 18:2n-6) is an essential nutrient for optimal infant growth and brain development. The effects of LA in the brain are thought to be mediated by oxygenated metabolites of LA known as oxidized LA metabolites (OXLAMs), but evidence is lacking to directly support this hypothesis. This study investigated whether OXLAMs modulate key neurodevelopmental processes including axon outgrowth, dendritic arborization, cell viability and synaptic connectivity. Primary cortical neuron-glia co-cultures from postnatal day 0-1 male and female rats were exposed for 48h to the following OXLAMs: 1) 13-hydroxyoctadecadienoic acid (13-HODE); 2) 9-hydroxyoctadecadienoic acid (9-HODE); 3) 9,10-dihydroxyoctadecenoic acid (9,10-DiHOME); 4) 12(13)-epoxyoctadecenoic acid (12(13)-EpOME); 5) 9,10,13-trihydroxyoctadecenoic acid (9,10,13-TriHOME); 6) 9-oxo-octadecadienoic acid (9-OxoODE); and 7) 12,13-dihydroxyoctadecenoic acid (12,13-DiHOME). Axonal outgrowth, evaluated by Tau-1 immunostaining, was increased by 9-HODE, but decreased by 12,13-DiHOME in male but not female neurons. Dendrite arborization, evaluated by MAP2B-eGFP expression, was affected by 9-HODE, 9-OxoODE, and 12(13)-EpOME in male neurons and, by 12(13)-EpOME in female neurons. Neither cell viability nor synaptic connectivity were significantly altered by OXLAMs. Overall, this study shows select OXLAMs modulate neuron morphology in a sex-dependent manner, with male neurons being more susceptible.