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Anyim R, Li S, Armstrong D, Spathis R, James GD, Little MA, Wander K. Predictors of milk cortisol in North American women. Am J Hum Biol 2024; 36:e23985. [PMID: 37712627 DOI: 10.1002/ajhb.23985] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/11/2023] [Revised: 08/28/2023] [Accepted: 08/29/2023] [Indexed: 09/16/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Human milk content varies across mother-child dyads, environments, and populations. Among the hormones in milk is cortisol, a glucocorticoid; its impact on the breastfeeding child is unknown. Milk cortisol may constitute a signal to the child's developing physiology which can shape characteristics (e.g., growth, temperament) to prevailing environmental conditions. This exploratory study evaluated the maternal, breastfeeding, and infant characteristics associated with milk cortisol. METHODS We evaluated archived milk specimens for cortisol using enzyme immunoassay and employed an information-theoretic approach to assess associations between milk cortisol and participant characteristics with linear regression modeling. Because we employed secondary data, information for some variables likely to impact milk cortisol variation (e.g., time of day, socioeconomic status, maternal or infant body mass index, milk energy density) was unavailable. RESULTS Participants were 48 lactating mothers from upstate New York, aged 21-40 years. Milk cortisol ranged from 0.098 to 1.007 μg/dL. Child age ranged from 1 to 26 months. In linear regression employing best fit modeling criteria, milk cortisol increased with child age (B: 0.069; p: .000; a 7.1% increase in milk cortisol for each month of child age), while child symptoms of illness (B: -0.398; p: .057; a 33% decrease) and consumption of complementary foods (B: -.525; p: .020; a 41% decrease) were associated with lower milk cortisol. CONCLUSIONS We speculate that increasing milk cortisol with child age plays a role in signaling development (e.g., as increasing independence increases risk for injury and other negative health outcomes), independent of the maternal stressors we could capture.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rachael Anyim
- Department of Anthropology, Binghamton University (SUNY), Binghamton, New York, USA
| | - Shanita Li
- Department of Anthropology, Binghamton University (SUNY), Binghamton, New York, USA
| | - Daniel Armstrong
- Department of Anthropology, Binghamton University (SUNY), Binghamton, New York, USA
| | - Rita Spathis
- Department of Anthropology, Binghamton University (SUNY), Binghamton, New York, USA
| | - Gary D James
- Department of Anthropology, Binghamton University (SUNY), Binghamton, New York, USA
| | - Michael A Little
- Department of Anthropology, Binghamton University (SUNY), Binghamton, New York, USA
| | - Katherine Wander
- Department of Anthropology, Binghamton University (SUNY), Binghamton, New York, USA
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2
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Hashemi Javaheri FS, Karbin K, Senobari MA, Hakim HG, Hashemi M. The association between maternal body mass index and breast milk composition: a systematic review. Nutr Rev 2024:nuad174. [PMID: 38273741 DOI: 10.1093/nutrit/nuad174] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/27/2024] Open
Abstract
CONTEXT Breast milk composition is influenced by many factors, ranging from maternal nutritional status to infant sex. Previous studies have explored the relationship between maternal body mass index (BMI) and breast milk composition; however, the findings have been inconsistent and controversial. OBJECTIVE To systematically review the evidence on the association of maternal weight and BMI with breast milk composition. DATA SOURCES The PubMed and Scopus databases were searched up to May 3, 2023, using the following search strategy: ("maternal weight" OR "maternal BMI" OR "mother's weight" OR "mother's BMI") AND ("maternal milk" OR "human milk" OR "breast milk"). DATA EXTRACTION A total of 83 publications, involving data from more than 11 310 lactating women, were identified. All extracted data were compiled, compared, and critically analyzed. DATA ANALYSIS Overall, maternal BMI was associated with higher levels of leptin and insulin, and the ratio of omega-6 to omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids in breast milk. However, no conclusive associations were found between maternal BMI and the levels of energy, macronutrients, micronutrients, and other components of breast milk. CONCLUSIONS This systematic review provides robust evidence supporting a positive correlation between maternal BMI and breast milk concentrations of leptin, insulin, and the omega-6 to omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acid ratio. Nevertheless, disparities in findings are noticeable for other constituents of breast milk. To comprehensively grasp the influence of maternal weight and BMI on breast milk composition, further research endeavors are imperative. SYSTEMATIC REVIEW REGISTRATION PROSPERO registration no. CRD42023458667.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fatemeh Sadat Hashemi Javaheri
- Department of Clinical Nutrition, School of Nutrition and Food Sciences, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Karim Karbin
- College of Pharmacy and Nutrition, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, Canada
| | - Mohammad Amin Senobari
- Department of Nutrition, Faculty of Medicine, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Hakime Ghadiri Hakim
- Student Research Committee, Faculty of Medicine, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Mohammad Hashemi
- Medical Toxicology Research Center, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
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3
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Brockway MM, Daniel AI, Reyes SM, Gauglitz JM, Granger M, McDermid JM, Chan D, Refvik R, Sidhu KK, Musse S, Patel PP, Monnin C, Lotoski L, Geddes DT, Jehan F, Kolsteren P, Bode L, Eriksen KG, Allen LH, Hampel D, Rodriguez N, Azad MB. Human Milk Bioactive Components and Child Growth and Body Composition in the First 2 Years: A Systematic Review. Adv Nutr 2024; 15:100127. [PMID: 37802214 PMCID: PMC10831900 DOI: 10.1016/j.advnut.2023.09.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/17/2023] [Revised: 09/11/2023] [Accepted: 09/26/2023] [Indexed: 10/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Human milk (HM) contains macronutrients, micronutrients, and a multitude of other bioactive factors, which can have a long-term impact on infant growth and development. We systematically searched MEDLINE, EMBASE, Cochrane Library, Scopus, and Web of Science to synthesize evidence published between 1980 and 2022 on HM components and anthropometry through 2 y of age among term-born infants. From 9992 abstracts screened, 141 articles were included and categorized based on their reporting of HM micronutrients, macronutrients, or bioactive components. Bioactives including hormones, HM oligosaccharides (HMOs), and immunomodulatory components are reported here, based on 75 articles from 69 unique studies reporting observations from 9980 dyads. Research designs, milk collection strategies, sampling times, geographic and socioeconomic settings, reporting practices, and outcomes varied considerably. Meta-analyses were not possible because data collection times and reporting were inconsistent among the studies included. Few measured infant HM intake, adjusted for confounders, precisely captured breastfeeding exclusivity, or adequately described HM collection protocols. Only 5 studies (6%) had high overall quality scores. Hormones were the most extensively examined bioactive with 46 articles (n = 6773 dyads), compared with 13 (n = 2640 dyads) for HMOs and 12 (n = 1422 dyads) for immunomodulatory components. Two studies conducted untargeted metabolomics. Leptin and adiponectin demonstrated inverse associations with infant growth, although several studies found no associations. No consistent associations were found between individual HMOs and infant growth outcomes. Among immunomodulatory components in HM, IL-6 demonstrated inverse relationships with infant growth. Current research on HM bioactives is largely inconclusive and is insufficient to address the complex composition of HM. Future research should ideally capture HM intake, use biologically relevant anthropometrics, and integrate components across categories, embracing a systems biology approach to better understand how HM components work independently and synergistically to influence infant growth.
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Affiliation(s)
- Meredith Merilee Brockway
- Manitoba Interdisciplinary Lactation Centre (MILC), Children's Hospital Research Institute of Manitoba, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, MB, Canada; Department of Pediatrics and Child Health, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, MB, Canada; Faculty of Nursing, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada
| | - Allison I Daniel
- Department of Nutritional Sciences, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada; Centre for Global Child Health, Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Sarah M Reyes
- Manitoba Interdisciplinary Lactation Centre (MILC), Children's Hospital Research Institute of Manitoba, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, MB, Canada; Department of Pediatrics and Child Health, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, MB, Canada
| | | | - Matthew Granger
- Department of Food and Human Nutritional Sciences, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, MB, Canada
| | | | - Deborah Chan
- Manitoba Interdisciplinary Lactation Centre (MILC), Children's Hospital Research Institute of Manitoba, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, MB, Canada; Department of Pediatrics and Child Health, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, MB, Canada; Department of Epidemiology, Biostatistics, and Occupational Health, McGill University, Montréal, QC, Canada
| | - Rebecca Refvik
- Department of Food and Human Nutritional Sciences, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, MB, Canada
| | - Karanbir K Sidhu
- Department of Food and Human Nutritional Sciences, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, MB, Canada
| | - Suad Musse
- Department of Food and Human Nutritional Sciences, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, MB, Canada
| | - Pooja P Patel
- Department of Public Health and Community Medicine, Tufts University School of Medicine, Boston, MA, Unites States
| | - Caroline Monnin
- Neil John Maclean Health Sciences Library, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, MB, Canada
| | - Larisa Lotoski
- Manitoba Interdisciplinary Lactation Centre (MILC), Children's Hospital Research Institute of Manitoba, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, MB, Canada; Department of Pediatrics and Child Health, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, MB, Canada
| | - Donna T Geddes
- School of Molecular Sciences, The University of Western Australia, Perth, WA, Australia
| | - Fyezah Jehan
- Department of Pediatrics & Child Health, Aga Khan University, Karachi, Pakistan
| | - Patrick Kolsteren
- Department of Food Safety and Food Quality, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Lars Bode
- Department of Pediatrics, Mother-Milk-Infant Center of Research Excellence (MOMI CORE), University of California, San Diego (UC San Diego), San Diego, CA, United States
| | - Kamilla G Eriksen
- Department of Nutrition, Exercise and Sports, Faculty of Science, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Lindsay H Allen
- Department of Nutrition, University of California, Davis, CA, United States; Western Human Nutrition Research Center, Agriculture Research Service, United States Department of Agriculture, Washington, DC, Unites States
| | - Daniela Hampel
- Department of Nutrition, University of California, Davis, CA, United States; Western Human Nutrition Research Center, Agriculture Research Service, United States Department of Agriculture, Washington, DC, Unites States
| | - Natalie Rodriguez
- Manitoba Interdisciplinary Lactation Centre (MILC), Children's Hospital Research Institute of Manitoba, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, MB, Canada; Department of Pediatrics and Child Health, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, MB, Canada
| | - Meghan B Azad
- Manitoba Interdisciplinary Lactation Centre (MILC), Children's Hospital Research Institute of Manitoba, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, MB, Canada; Department of Pediatrics and Child Health, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, MB, Canada; Department of Food and Human Nutritional Sciences, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, MB, Canada.
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Beery AK, Jackson B, Halstead E, Windorski SM, Nnodim-Amadi C, Upin E. Acute decrease in mothers' cortisol following nursing and milk expression. Horm Behav 2023; 153:105387. [PMID: 37307679 DOI: 10.1016/j.yhbeh.2023.105387] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/13/2022] [Revised: 05/18/2023] [Accepted: 05/25/2023] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
The glucocorticoid hormone cortisol is an integral component of signaling pathways related to stress reactivity, energy balance, immune function, and other processes. In animal models, lactation is robustly associated with alterations in glucocorticoid signaling, and limited data suggest that similar changes may occur across human lactation. We asked whether milk letdown/secretion in breastfeeding mothers was associated with changes in cortisol, and whether such effects required presence of an infant. We measured changes in maternal salivary cortisol concentrations before and after nursing, the expression of breastmilk with an electric pump, or control activities. Participants conducted pre-session and post-session sampling (at 30 min) for all conditions, and provided a sample of pumped milk from one session. Both nursing and mechanical expression of breastmilk but not control were associated with equivalent declines in maternal cortisol concentration from pre-session values, indicating an effect of milk letdown on circulating cortisol independent of infant contact. Pre-session maternal salivary cortisol concentration was strongly and positively correlated with cortisol concentration in pumped milk samples, indicating that cortisol ingested by offspring provides a signal of maternal cortisol levels. Self-reported maternal stress was associated with higher pre-session cortisol concentrations, as well as with a larger drop in cortisol following nursing or pumping. These findings demonstrate that milk release-in the presence or absence of a suckling infant-regulates cortisol in mothers, and supports the potential for maternal signaling through breastmilk.
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Affiliation(s)
- Annaliese K Beery
- Department of Integrative Biology, University of California, Berkeley, Berkeley, CA 94720, United States of America; Department of Psychology, Smith College, Northampton, MA 01063, United States of America; Department of Biology, Smith College, Northampton, MA 01063, United States of America; Program in Neuroscience, Smith College, Northampton, MA 01063, United States of America; Program in Culture, Health, and Science, Five College Consortium, Amherst, MA 01002, United States of America; Neuroscience and Behavior Program, University of Massachusetts, Amherst, MA 01002, United States of America.
| | - Benita Jackson
- Department of Psychology, Smith College, Northampton, MA 01063, United States of America; Program in Culture, Health, and Science, Five College Consortium, Amherst, MA 01002, United States of America
| | - Emily Halstead
- Program in Neuroscience, Smith College, Northampton, MA 01063, United States of America
| | - Sunny M Windorski
- Department of Psychology, Smith College, Northampton, MA 01063, United States of America
| | | | - Emily Upin
- Department of Psychology, Smith College, Northampton, MA 01063, United States of America
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5
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Tekgündüz SE, Lazoğlu M, Nailoğlu M, Apay SE, Tekgündüz KŞ. The Relationship of Preterm, Term, and Post-Term Births to Maternal Stress and Human Milk Cortisol Levels. Breastfeed Med 2023; 18:462-468. [PMID: 37335326 DOI: 10.1089/bfm.2023.0006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/21/2023]
Abstract
Introduction: Maternal stress can lead to changes in the composition of human breast milk. The present study evaluates cortisol levels in the breast milk of mothers after giving birth preterm, term, or post-term, and ascertains whether the levels are associated with maternal stress. Materials and Methods: Included in the study were mothers who gave birth vaginally after 32 weeks of gestation between January and April 2022. The breast milk was expressed with an electronic pump under the supervision of a nurse on day 7 following birth, and 2 mL samples of the milk were transferred into microtubes and stored at -80°C. Stress in the mothers was measured using the perceived stress scale developed by Cohen et al. The human breast milk cortisol levels were determined using an enzyme-linked immunoassay in a single session. Results: A total of 90 mothers, including 30 with preterm births, 38 with term births, and 22 with post-term births, were included in the study. The median stress scale score was 28 (17-50) and the median breast milk cortisol level was 0.49 ng/mL (0.1-1.96 ng/mL). A significant positive correlation was noted between the stress scale scores and breast milk cortisol levels (r = 0.56, p < 0.01). The breast milk cortisol levels and maternal stress scale scores were significantly higher in the preterm birth group than in the term birth group (p = 0.011 and p = 0.013, respectively). Conclusion: Although there is an association between maternal stress and preterm labor and milk cortisol levels, we believe that more studies are needed to establish a causal link.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sibel Ejder Tekgündüz
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Erzurum Regional Training and Research Hospital, Erzurum, Türkiye
| | - Merve Lazoğlu
- Atatürk University Faculty of Health Sciences, Erzurum, Türkiye
| | - Mehtap Nailoğlu
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Erzurum Regional Training and Research Hospital, Erzurum, Türkiye
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Wijenayake S, Martz J, Lapp HE, Storm JA, Champagne FA, Kentner AC. The contributions of parental lactation on offspring development: It's not udder nonsense! Horm Behav 2023; 153:105375. [PMID: 37269591 DOI: 10.1016/j.yhbeh.2023.105375] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/06/2023] [Revised: 05/11/2023] [Accepted: 05/13/2023] [Indexed: 06/05/2023]
Abstract
The Developmental Origins of Health and Disease (DOHaD) hypothesis describes how maternal stress exposures experienced during critical periods of perinatal life are linked to altered developmental trajectories in offspring. Perinatal stress also induces changes in lactogenesis, milk volume, maternal care, and the nutritive and non-nutritive components of milk, affecting short and long-term developmental outcomes in offspring. For instance, selective early life stressors shape the contents of milk, including macro/micronutrients, immune components, microbiota, enzymes, hormones, milk-derived extracellular vesicles, and milk microRNAs. In this review, we highlight the contributions of parental lactation to offspring development by examining changes in the composition of breast milk in response to three well-characterized maternal stressors: nutritive stress, immune stress, and psychological stress. We discuss recent findings in human, animal, and in vitro models, their clinical relevance, study limitations, and potential therapeutic significance to improving human health and infant survival. We also discuss the benefits of enrichment methods and support tools that can be used to improve milk quality and volume as well as related developmental outcomes in offspring. Lastly, we use evidence-based primary literature to convey that even though select maternal stressors may modulate lactation biology (by influencing milk composition) depending on the severity and length of exposure, exclusive and/or prolonged milk feeding may attenuate the negative in utero effects of early life stressors and promote healthy developmental trajectories. Overall, scientific evidence supports lactation to be protective against nutritive and immune stressors, but the benefits of lactation in response to psychological stressors need further investigation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sanoji Wijenayake
- Department of Biology, The University of Winnipeg, Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada.
| | - Julia Martz
- School of Arts & Sciences, Health Psychology Program, Massachusetts College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Hannah E Lapp
- Deparment of Psychology, University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX, USA
| | - Jasmyne A Storm
- Department of Biology, The University of Winnipeg, Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada
| | | | - Amanda C Kentner
- School of Arts & Sciences, Health Psychology Program, Massachusetts College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences, Boston, MA, USA.
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7
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Zielinska-Pukos MA, Bryś J, Kucharz N, Chrobak A, Wesolowska A, Grabowicz-Chądrzyńska I, Hamulka J. Factors Influencing Cortisol Concentrations in Breastmilk and Its Associations with Breastmilk Composition and Infant Development in the First Six Months of Lactation. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 19:ijerph192214809. [PMID: 36429527 PMCID: PMC9690377 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph192214809] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/26/2022] [Revised: 11/03/2022] [Accepted: 11/08/2022] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
Previous studies provided contradictory results regarding the influence of maternal, seasonal, and infant factors on breastmilk cortisol, and its associations with breastmilk composition and infant development. This study aimed to assess breastmilk cortisol levels at the first, third, and sixth months of lactation and evaluate the associations with maternal psychosocial, seasonal, and infant factors, breastmilk composition, and infant anthropometric and psychomotor development and temperament. Cortisol concentrations were assessed by ELISA in 24 h breastmilk samples obtained from 38 healthy mothers. Maternal psychological status was assessed by EPDS and PSS-10 and infant psychomotor development was assessed using the Children's Development Scale (DSR). Breastmilk cortisol was 11.2 ± 6.2, 11.2 ± 4.3, and 12.7 ± 6.2 ng/mL at the first, third, and sixth months of lactation (p > 0.05), respectively. In the spring-summer season, we observed lower and higher levels of cortisol in the first and sixth months of lactation (p ≤ 0.05), respectively, but no other associations were detected regarding maternal or infant characteristics. In the third month of lactation, cortisol was related to breastmilk crude protein (β = 0.318, 0.007-0.630) and infant BMI z-score before adjustment for infant birthweight and sex (Model 2: β = 0.359, 0.021-0.697), but no other associations with breastmilk composition, infant development, or temperament were confirmed. Our results indicated that breastmilk cortisol is unrelated to maternal and infant factors and has limited influence on breastmilk crude protein, but not on infant anthropometric and psychomotor development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Monika A. Zielinska-Pukos
- Department of Human Nutrition, Institute of Human Nutrition Sciences, Warsaw University of Life Sciences—SGGW, Nowoursynowska St. 159, 02-776 Warsaw, Poland
| | - Joanna Bryś
- Department of Chemistry, Institute of Food Sciences, Warsaw University of Life Sciences—SGGW, Nowoursynowska St. 159, 02-776 Warsaw, Poland
| | - Natalia Kucharz
- Hirszfeld Institute of Immunology and Experimental Therapy, Polish Academy of Sciences, 53-114 Wrocław, Poland
| | - Agnieszka Chrobak
- Hirszfeld Institute of Immunology and Experimental Therapy, Polish Academy of Sciences, 53-114 Wrocław, Poland
| | - Aleksandra Wesolowska
- Laboratory of Human Milk and Lactation Research at Regional Human Milk Bank in Holy Family Hospital, Department of Neonatology, Faculty of Life Sciences, Medical University of Warsaw, Litewska 14/16 Str., 00-575 Warsaw, Poland
| | | | - Jadwiga Hamulka
- Department of Human Nutrition, Institute of Human Nutrition Sciences, Warsaw University of Life Sciences—SGGW, Nowoursynowska St. 159, 02-776 Warsaw, Poland
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Muelbert M, Alexander T, Vickers MH, Harding JE, Galante L, Bloomfield FH. Glucocorticoids in preterm human milk. Front Nutr 2022; 9:965654. [PMID: 36238462 PMCID: PMC9552215 DOI: 10.3389/fnut.2022.965654] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/10/2022] [Accepted: 08/29/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Glucocorticoids (GCs), cortisol and cortisone, are essential regulators of many physiological responses, including immunity, stress and mammary gland function. GCs are present in human milk (HM), but whether maternal and infant factors are associated with HM GC concentration following preterm birth is unclear. Materials and methods HM samples were collected on postnatal day 5 and 10 and at 4 months’ corrected age (4m CA) in a cohort of moderate- and late-preterm infants. GCs in HM were measured by liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry. Relationships between GCs in HM and both maternal and infant characteristics were investigated using Spearman’s correlations and linear mixed models. Results 170 mothers of 191 infants provided 354 HM samples. Cortisol concentrations in HM increased from postnatal day 5–4m CA (mean difference [MD] 0.6 ± 0.1 ng/ml, p < 0.001). Cortisone concentration did not change across lactation but was higher than cortisol throughout. Compared to no antenatal corticosteroid (ANS), a complete course of ANS was associated with lower GC concentrations in HM through to 4m CA (cortisol: MD –0.3 ± 0.1 ng/ml, p < 0.01; cortisone MD –1.8 ± 0.4 ng/ml, p < 0.001). At 4m CA, higher maternal perceived stress was negatively associated with GC concentrations in HM (cortisol adjusted beta-coefficient [aβ] –0.01 ± 0.01 ng/ml, p = 0.05; and cortisone aβ –0.1 ± 0.03 ng/ml, p = 0.01), whereas higher postpartum depression and maternal obesity were associated with lower cortisone concentrations (aβ –0.1 ± 0.04 ng/ml p < 0.05; MD [healthy versus obese] –0.1 ± 0.04 ng/ml p < 0.05, respectively). There was a weak positive correlation between GC concentrations in HM and gestational age at birth (r = 0.1, p < 0.05). Infant birth head circumference z-score was negatively associated with cortisol concentrations (aβ –0.01 ± 0.04 ng/ml, p < 0.05). At hospital discharge, fat-free mass showed a weak positive correlation with cortisol concentrations (r = 0.2, p = 0.03), while fat mass showed a weak negative correlation with cortisone concentrations (r = –0.25, p < 0.001). Conclusion The mammary gland appears to protect the infant from cortisol through inactivation into cortisone. Maternal and infant characteristics were associated with concentration of GCs in HM, including ANS, stress and depression scores, obesity, gestational age and infant size. The effects of HM glucocorticoids on long-term health outcomes requires further research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mariana Muelbert
- Liggins Institute, University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Tanith Alexander
- Liggins Institute, University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
- Neonatal Unit, Kidz First, Middlemore Hospital, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Mark H. Vickers
- Liggins Institute, University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Jane E. Harding
- Liggins Institute, University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Laura Galante
- Liggins Institute, University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Frank H. Bloomfield
- Liggins Institute, University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
- *Correspondence: Frank H. Bloomfield,
| | - the DIAMOND study groupMuelbertMariana1AlexanderTanith12GalanteLaura1AsadiSharin1ChongClara Y.L.1AlsweilerJane M.34BekerFriederike56BloomfieldFrank H.13Cameron-SmithDavid1CrowtherCaroline A.1HardingJane E.1JiangYannan7MeyerMichael P.24MilanAmber18o’SullivanJustin M.1WallClare R.91Liggins Institute, University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand2Neonatal Unit, Kidz First, Middlemore Hospital, Auckland, New Zealand3Newborn Services, Auckland City Hospital, Auckland, New Zealand4Department of Paediatrics: Child and Youth Health.5Department of Newborn Services, Mater Mothers’ Hospital, Brisbane, QLD, Australia6Mater Research Institute, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD, Australia7Department of Statistics, Faculty of Science, University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand8Food and Bio-based Products, AgResearch Grasslands, Palmerston North, New Zealand9Department of Nutrition, Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences, University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
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9
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de Weerth C, Aatsinki AK, Azad MB, Bartol FF, Bode L, Collado MC, Dettmer AM, Field CJ, Guilfoyle M, Hinde K, Korosi A, Lustermans H, Mohd Shukri NH, Moore SE, Pundir S, Rodriguez JM, Slupsky CM, Turner S, van Goudoever JB, Ziomkiewicz A, Beijers R. Human milk: From complex tailored nutrition to bioactive impact on child cognition and behavior. Crit Rev Food Sci Nutr 2022; 63:7945-7982. [PMID: 35352583 DOI: 10.1080/10408398.2022.2053058] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Human milk is a highly complex liquid food tailor-made to match an infant's needs. Beyond documented positive effects of breastfeeding on infant and maternal health, there is increasing evidence that milk constituents also impact child neurodevelopment. Non-nutrient milk bioactives would contribute to the (long-term) development of child cognition and behavior, a process termed 'Lactocrine Programming'. In this review we discuss the current state of the field on human milk composition and its links with child cognitive and behavioral development. To promote state-of-the-art methodologies and designs that facilitate data pooling and meta-analytic endeavors, we present detailed recommendations and best practices for future studies. Finally, we determine important scientific gaps that need to be filled to advance the field, and discuss innovative directions for future research. Unveiling the mechanisms underlying the links between human milk and child cognition and behavior will deepen our understanding of the broad functions of this complex liquid food, as well as provide necessary information for designing future interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carolina de Weerth
- Department of Cognitive Neuroscience, Donders Institute for Brain, Cognition, and Behavior, Radboud University Medical Center, EN Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Anna-Katariina Aatsinki
- FinnBrain Birth Cohort Study, Turku Brain and Mind Center, Department of Clinical Medicine, University of Turku, Turku, Finland
| | - Meghan B Azad
- Department of Pediatrics and Child Health, Manitoba Interdisciplinary Lactation Centre, Children's Hospital Research Institute of Manitoba, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada
| | - Frank F Bartol
- Department of Anatomy, Physiology and Pharmacology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Auburn University, Auburn, Alabama, USA
| | - Lars Bode
- Department of Pediatrics and Mother-Milk-Infant Center of Research Excellence (MOMI CORE), University of California San Diego, La Jolla, California, USA
| | - Maria Carmen Collado
- Department of Biotechnology, Institute of Agrochemistry and Food Technology-National Research Council (IATA-CSIC), Paterna, Valencia, Spain
| | - Amanda M Dettmer
- Yale Child Study Center, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut, USA
| | - Catherine J Field
- Department of Agricultural, Food and Nutritional Science, College of Basic and Applied Sciences, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
| | - Meagan Guilfoyle
- Department of Anthropology, Indiana University, Bloomington, Indiana, USA
| | - Katie Hinde
- School of Human Evolution and Social Change, Arizona State University, Tempe, Arizona, USA
| | - Aniko Korosi
- Swammerdam Institute for Life Sciences, Center for Neuroscience, Brain Plasticity group, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Hellen Lustermans
- Department of Cognitive Neuroscience, Donders Institute for Brain, Cognition, and Behavior, Radboud University Medical Center, EN Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Nurul Husna Mohd Shukri
- Department of Nutrition, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Universiti Putra Malaysia, Selangor, Malaysia
| | - Sophie E Moore
- Department of Women & Children's Health, King's College London, St Thomas' Hospital, London, UK
- School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, Nutrition Theme, MRC Unit The Gambia and the London, Fajara, The GambiaBanjul
| | - Shikha Pundir
- The Liggins Institute, The University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Juan Miguel Rodriguez
- Department of Nutrition and Food Science, Complutense University of Madrid, Madrid, Spain
| | - Carolyn M Slupsky
- Department of Nutrition and Department of Food Science and Technology, University of California, Davis, California, USA
| | - Sarah Turner
- Department of Community Health Sciences, Manitoba Interdisciplinary Lactation Centre, Children's Hospital Research Institute of Manitoba, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada
| | - Johannes B van Goudoever
- Department of Pediatrics, Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, Vrije Universiteit, Emma Children's Hospital, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Anna Ziomkiewicz
- Department of Anthropology, Institute of Zoology and Biomedical Research, Jagiellonian University, Krakow, Poland
| | - Roseriet Beijers
- Department of Cognitive Neuroscience, Donders Institute for Brain, Cognition, and Behavior, Radboud University Medical Center, EN Nijmegen, The Netherlands
- Department of Social Development, Behavioural Science Institute, Radboud University, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
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10
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Romijn M, van Tilburg LJL, Hollanders JJ, van der Voorn B, de Goede P, Dolman KM, Heijboer AC, Broekman BFP, Rotteveel J, Finken MJJ. The Association between Maternal Stress and Glucocorticoid Rhythmicity in Human Milk. Nutrients 2021; 13:nu13051608. [PMID: 34064929 PMCID: PMC8151700 DOI: 10.3390/nu13051608] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2021] [Revised: 05/02/2021] [Accepted: 05/06/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Chronic stress is often accompanied by alterations in the diurnal rhythm of hypothalamus–pituitary–adrenal activity. However, there are limited data on the diurnal rhythmicity of breast milk glucocorticoids (GCs) among women with psychological distress. We compared mothers who sought consultation at an expertise center for pregnant women with an increased risk of psychological distress with control mothers for GC diurnal rhythmicity in milk and saliva obtained at the same time. Methods: We included 19 mothers who sought consultation at the psychiatry–obstetric–pediatric (POP) outpatient clinic and 44 control mothers. One month postpartum, mothers collected on average eight paired milk and saliva samples during a 24 h period. GC levels were measured using liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry. GC rhythmicity parameters were determined with specialized software. Results: For both milk and saliva, no group differences regarding GC rhythms were found. Milk cortisol area under the curve with respect to the ground was lower in the POP group than in the control group (p = 0.02). GC levels in human milk and saliva were highly correlated within each group (p < 0.001). Conclusion: Although there were no differences between groups in GC rhythmicity, the total amount of milk cortisol was lower in the POP group. Long-term follow-up is needed to address the impact of vertical transmission of breast milk GCs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michelle Romijn
- Department of Pediatric Endocrinology, Emma Children’s Hospital, Amsterdam University Medical Centers, location VUmc, 1081 HV Amsterdam, The Netherlands; (L.J.L.v.T.); (J.J.H.); (J.R.); (M.J.J.F.)
- Department of Pediatrics, Amsterdam Reproduction & Development Research Institute, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam UMC, 1081 HV Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +31-(0)20-444-3137
| | - Luca J. L. van Tilburg
- Department of Pediatric Endocrinology, Emma Children’s Hospital, Amsterdam University Medical Centers, location VUmc, 1081 HV Amsterdam, The Netherlands; (L.J.L.v.T.); (J.J.H.); (J.R.); (M.J.J.F.)
| | - Jonneke J. Hollanders
- Department of Pediatric Endocrinology, Emma Children’s Hospital, Amsterdam University Medical Centers, location VUmc, 1081 HV Amsterdam, The Netherlands; (L.J.L.v.T.); (J.J.H.); (J.R.); (M.J.J.F.)
| | - Bibian van der Voorn
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Endocrinology, Erasmus MC-Sophia Children’s Hospital, University Medical Center Rotterdam, 3000 CA Rotterdam, The Netherlands;
| | - Paul de Goede
- Laboratory of Endocrinology, Amsterdam University Medical Center, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam Gastroenterology & Metabolism, 1105 AZ Amsterdam, The Netherlands;
| | - Koert M. Dolman
- Department of Pediatrics, Onze Lieve Vrouwe Gasthuis (OLVG), 1006 AE Amsterdam, The Netherlands;
| | - Annemieke C. Heijboer
- Department of Clinical Chemistry, Endocrine Laboratory, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam UMC, 1081 HV Amsterdam, The Netherlands;
| | - Birit F. P. Broekman
- Department of Psychiatry, VU University Medical Centre, Amsterdam UMC, 1081 HV Amsterdam, The Netherlands;
| | - Joost Rotteveel
- Department of Pediatric Endocrinology, Emma Children’s Hospital, Amsterdam University Medical Centers, location VUmc, 1081 HV Amsterdam, The Netherlands; (L.J.L.v.T.); (J.J.H.); (J.R.); (M.J.J.F.)
| | - Martijn J. J. Finken
- Department of Pediatric Endocrinology, Emma Children’s Hospital, Amsterdam University Medical Centers, location VUmc, 1081 HV Amsterdam, The Netherlands; (L.J.L.v.T.); (J.J.H.); (J.R.); (M.J.J.F.)
- Department of Pediatrics, Amsterdam Reproduction & Development Research Institute, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam UMC, 1081 HV Amsterdam, The Netherlands
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11
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Preterm human milk: associations between perinatal factors and hormone concentrations throughout lactation. Pediatr Res 2021; 89:1461-1469. [PMID: 32726796 DOI: 10.1038/s41390-020-1069-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/15/2020] [Revised: 07/08/2020] [Accepted: 07/12/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Infants born moderate to late preterm constitute the majority of preterm births, yet guidelines for their nutritional care are unclear. Maternal milk is the most appropriate nutrition for these infants; however, its composition can be influenced by environmental factors. The present study therefore investigated perinatal predictors of human milk composition in a preterm cohort. METHODS Milk was collected during the DIAMOND trial (DIfferent Approaches to Moderate and late preterm Nutrition: Determinants of feed tolerance, body composition and development) from 169 mothers of 191 infants at three time-points (5 and 10 days post partum and 4 months' corrected age). Leptin, adiponectin and insulin-like growth factor-1 (IGF-1) were analysed by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Generalised mixed models were used to evaluate associations between milk composition and maternal/infant/perinatal factors. RESULTS Most findings were independent of collection time-point. Gestational diabetes was associated with lower adiponectin. Higher adiponectin and lower leptin were associated with higher socioeconomic status, higher maternal education and ability to fully breastfeed at discharge from hospital. Higher leptin was associated with high perceived stress during hospital admission. Milk IGF-1 displayed sex-specific patterns in association with maternal social deprivation. CONCLUSION Maternal, infant and environmental factors during the perinatal period were associated with milk compositional profiles throughout lactation. Further clinical trials should investigate the impact of such changes in terms of long-term infant outcomes. IMPACT Human milk is the best nutrition for the infant. However, its composition may be susceptible to alterations determined by pathological conditions mother and infant may face throughout pregnancy and in the perinatal period. This study found that perinatal factors are associated with human milk composition from early to late lactation. If human milk composition throughout lactation is "programmed" during pregnancy or early lactation, infants who were exposed in utero to environmental insults may still be exposed to them during lactation. The impact of human milk compositional alteration on infant growth following perinatal pathological events requires further investigation.
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12
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Lindberg M, Nolvi S, Härkönen J, Aatsinki AK, Karlsson L, Karlsson H, Uusitupa HM. Associations between maternal socioeconomic, psychosocial and seasonal factors, infant characteristics and human milk cortisol concentrations. Am J Hum Biol 2021; 33:e23561. [PMID: 33398927 DOI: 10.1002/ajhb.23561] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/09/2019] [Revised: 09/21/2020] [Accepted: 12/11/2020] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Glucocorticoids are one component of human milk (HM) potentially affecting offspring development. Previous studies have identified various maternal, obstetric and socioeconomic characteristics that are associated with HM cortisol concentration but the literature is still scarce concerning these determinants in human populations. We aimed to identify which factors are linked with HM cortisol concentration at 2 months postpartum. METHODS We analyzed data from 340 lactating Finnish mothers using ordinary least squares regression with log-transformed HM cortisol concentration as the dependent variable. Potential predictors included obstetric and maternal factors (maternal age, parity status, delivery mode, gestational age, pre-pregnancy obesity, and smoking in pregnancy), socioeconomic status (education and socioeconomic class), subjective economic well-being, maternal psychosocial factors (postpartum depression and anxiety symptoms), infant sex and age, and HM sample characteristics (time of the day and season of the year at sample collection). RESULTS The strongest and most robust predictors were season of the year of sample collection and parity status. HM cortisol concentration was significantly higher for primiparas than multiparas. HM samples collected in summer showed significantly higher cortisol concentrations than those collected in winter, spring or autumn. CONCLUSIONS The findings suggest that parity and season of the year at sample collection may be important factors to control for when examining HM cortisol. The strongest and most robust associations were related to maternal and sample characteristics and not to socioeconomic and psychosocial distress. This may be related to the fact that the study was conducted in a low-risk population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matti Lindberg
- Department of Social Research, University of Turku, Turku, Finland
| | - Saara Nolvi
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Turku Brain and Mind Center, FinnBrain Birth Cohort Study, University of Turku, Turku, Finland.,Department of Medical Psychology, Charité Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Germany.,Turku Institute for Advanced Studies, Department of Psychology and Speech-Language Pathology, University of Turku, Turku, Finland
| | - Juho Härkönen
- Department of Political and Social Sciences, European University Institute, Florence, Italy.,Department of Sociology, Stockholm University, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Anna-Katariina Aatsinki
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Turku Brain and Mind Center, FinnBrain Birth Cohort Study, University of Turku, Turku, Finland
| | - Linnea Karlsson
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Turku Brain and Mind Center, FinnBrain Birth Cohort Study, University of Turku, Turku, Finland.,Centre for Population Health Research, University of Turku and Turku University Hospital, Turku, Finland.,Department of Child Psychiatry, Turku University Hospital and University of Turku, Turku, Finland
| | - Hasse Karlsson
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Turku Brain and Mind Center, FinnBrain Birth Cohort Study, University of Turku, Turku, Finland.,Centre for Population Health Research, University of Turku and Turku University Hospital, Turku, Finland.,Department of Psychiatry, Turku University Hospital and University of Turku, Turku, Finland
| | - Henna-Maria Uusitupa
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Turku Brain and Mind Center, FinnBrain Birth Cohort Study, University of Turku, Turku, Finland
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13
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Vass RA, Bell EF, Colaizy TT, Schmelzel ML, Johnson KJ, Walker JR, Ertl T, Roghair RD. Hormone levels in preterm and donor human milk before and after Holder pasteurization. Pediatr Res 2020; 88:612-617. [PMID: 32000260 DOI: 10.1038/s41390-020-0789-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/11/2019] [Revised: 01/13/2020] [Accepted: 01/24/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND After birth, breastfeeding is the exclusive source of hormonal signaling between mother and infant. Hospitalized infants often receive donor milk when their own mother's milk is unavailable. METHODS The presence of insulin, leptin, cortisol, progesterone, and testosterone was examined in samples from milk bank donors and mothers of preterm infants. We further investigated the effect of Holder pasteurization (HoP) on hormone levels. RESULTS Comparing nonpasteurized samples, leptin levels were nearly threefold higher in milk from mothers of preterm infants versus donated milk, and regardless of milk source, leptin levels were significantly decreased by HoP. Insulin concentrations were also decreased by HoP, and among mothers of preterm infants, obesity was associated with significantly higher content of leptin and insulin. While combined use of donor milk and HoP was associated with cortisol levels nearly threefold higher than those in nonpasteurized own mother's milk, progesterone and testosterone content did not differ by source or pasteurization. CONCLUSIONS The hormonal composition of breast milk is impacted by HoP and maternal obesity. Compared to nonpasteurized maternal milk, use of pasteurized donor milk dramatically decreases the intake of leptin while increasing the intake of cortisol. Further research is necessary to define optimal breast milk processing practices.
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Affiliation(s)
- Réka A Vass
- Departments of Neonatology and Obstetrics & Gynecology, University of Pécs Medical School, Pécs, Hungary.,MTA-PTE Human Reproduction Scientific Research Group, Pécs, Hungary
| | - Edward F Bell
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Iowa Carver College of Medicine, Iowa City, IA, USA
| | - Tarah T Colaizy
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Iowa Carver College of Medicine, Iowa City, IA, USA
| | - Mendi L Schmelzel
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Iowa Carver College of Medicine, Iowa City, IA, USA
| | - Karen J Johnson
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Iowa Carver College of Medicine, Iowa City, IA, USA
| | - Jacky R Walker
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Iowa Carver College of Medicine, Iowa City, IA, USA
| | - Tibor Ertl
- Departments of Neonatology and Obstetrics & Gynecology, University of Pécs Medical School, Pécs, Hungary.,MTA-PTE Human Reproduction Scientific Research Group, Pécs, Hungary
| | - Robert D Roghair
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Iowa Carver College of Medicine, Iowa City, IA, USA.
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14
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Galante L, Pundir S, Lagström H, Rautava S, Reynolds CM, Milan AM, Cameron-Smith D, Vickers MH. Growth Factor Concentrations in Human Milk Are Associated With Infant Weight and BMI From Birth to 5 Years. Front Nutr 2020; 7:110. [PMID: 32850934 PMCID: PMC7403458 DOI: 10.3389/fnut.2020.00110] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/24/2020] [Accepted: 06/15/2020] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Human milk bioactives may play a role in infant health and development. Although the variability in their concentrations in milk is well-established, the impact of differential milk profiles on infant growth outcomes remains unclear. Thus, the aim of the present study was to investigate whether different concentrations of metabolic hormones are associated with different weight and BMI in infants beyond the first year of life. Methods: Milk samples at 2.6 (±0.4) months after birth and anthropometric measures at 13 months, 2, 3, and 5 years were collected as part of the Finnish STEPS cohort study from 501 mothers and the respective 507 infants. Leptin, adiponectin, insulin-like growth factor (IGF)-1 and cyclic glycine-proline (cGP) in milk were analyzed. Multiple regression models and a repeated measures mixed model were used to examine associations between milk hormone concentrations and weight and BMI z-scores across time, at each time-point, and weight gain from birth to each follow-up visit. All models were corrected for birth weight, infant sex, duration of exclusive and total breastfeeding, time of introduction of solid foods and maternal pre-pregnancy BMI. Results: Higher milk IGF-1 was associated with higher weight at 13 months (p = 0.004) but lower weight at 3 (p = 0.011) and 5 years of age (p = 0.049). Higher cGP was associated with lower weight across the 5 years (p = 0.019) but with higher BMI at 5 years (p = 0.021). Leptin and adiponectin did not display associations with infant growth at this time. Sex interactions were also absent. Conclusions: Our results suggest that the interplay between human milk-borne IGF-1 and cGP is similar to that reported in other mammals and may have an important role in defining infant growth trajectories beyond the first year of life. Further research should explore the determinants and origins of these milk-borne compounds and evaluate their effect on infant growth and metabolism.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura Galante
- The Liggins Institute, University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Shikha Pundir
- The Liggins Institute, University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Hanna Lagström
- Department of Public Health, University of Turku and Turku University Hospital, Turku, Finland.,Centre for Population Health Research, University of Turku, Turku, Finland
| | - Samuli Rautava
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Turku and Turku University Hospital, Turku, Finland.,Department of Pediatrics, University of Helsinki and Children's Hospital, Helsinki University Hospital, Helsinki, Finland
| | | | - Amber Marie Milan
- The Liggins Institute, University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand.,AgResearch Limited, Grasslands Research Centre, Palmerston North, New Zealand
| | - David Cameron-Smith
- Singapore Institute for Clinical Sciences, Agency for Science, Technology and Research, Singapore, Singapore
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15
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Linderborg KM, Kortesniemi M, Aatsinki AK, Karlsson L, Karlsson H, Yang B, Uusitupa HM. Interactions between cortisol and lipids in human milk. Int Breastfeed J 2020; 15:66. [PMID: 32690057 PMCID: PMC7370511 DOI: 10.1186/s13006-020-00307-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2019] [Accepted: 07/09/2020] [Indexed: 12/05/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Human breast milk is one of the key early postnatal biological exposures for the developing child. It includes bioactive compounds, such as cortisol and fatty acids, which may be linked via the mother’s lipid metabolism. Methods This study investigated the associations between cortisol and lipids in human milk at the infant age of 2.5 months. Human milk cortisol concentrations were measured using luminescence immunoassay, and two groups of milks (n = 50 each) were formed based on either high (> 10 nmol/L) or low (< 3 nmol/L) cortisol levels. Lipids, as fatty acid content and composition of neutral (triacylglycerol-rich) and polar (phospholipid-rich) lipids, were measured with gas chromatography. The samples originated from the FinnBrain Birth Cohort Study. Results The percentage of phospholipid-rich lipids of total lipids was 33.08% ± 1.33%. In triacylglycerol-rich lipids, high cortisol level in milk was associated with higher lauric (12:0, mass % and mg/mL), myristic (14:0, mass % and mg/mL), eicosenoic (20:1n − 9, mass %), docosenoic (22:1n − 9, mass %, and mg/mL) acids, and to lower palmitic acid (16:0, mass %) compared with low cortisol levels in milk. In phospholipid-rich lipids, high cortisol level was associated with higher myristic (14:0, mass %) and docosenoic (22:1n − 9, mass %) acids. After adjusting for pre-pregnancy BMI and sampling time by linear regression, the milk cortisol remained a significant predictor for lauric and myristic acids in triacylglycerol-rich lipids, and myristic and docosenoic acid in phospholipid-rich lipids (β = 0.23 to 0.38 and p < 0.05 for each). Conclusions This study revealed certain significant associations between milk cortisol and the fatty acid composition of human milk, indicating that cortisol might be one of the factors affecting the origin of the lipids in human milk.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kaisa M Linderborg
- Department of Biochemistry, Food Chemistry and Food Development, University of Turku, Itäinen Pitkäkatu 4C, FI-20014, Turun yliopisto, Turku, Finland.
| | - Maaria Kortesniemi
- Department of Biochemistry, Food Chemistry and Food Development, University of Turku, Itäinen Pitkäkatu 4C, FI-20014, Turun yliopisto, Turku, Finland
| | - Anna-Katariina Aatsinki
- The FinnBrain Birth Cohort Study, Turku Brain and Mind Center, Institute of Clinical Medicine, University of Turku, Turku, Finland
| | - Linnea Karlsson
- The FinnBrain Birth Cohort Study, Turku Brain and Mind Center, Institute of Clinical Medicine, University of Turku, Turku, Finland.,Department of Child Psychiatry, Turku University Hospital and University of Turku, Turku, Finland
| | - Hasse Karlsson
- The FinnBrain Birth Cohort Study, Turku Brain and Mind Center, Institute of Clinical Medicine, University of Turku, Turku, Finland.,Department of Psychiatry, Turku University Hospital and University of Turku, Turku, Finland
| | - Baoru Yang
- Department of Biochemistry, Food Chemistry and Food Development, University of Turku, Itäinen Pitkäkatu 4C, FI-20014, Turun yliopisto, Turku, Finland
| | - Henna-Maria Uusitupa
- The FinnBrain Birth Cohort Study, Turku Brain and Mind Center, Institute of Clinical Medicine, University of Turku, Turku, Finland
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16
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Vass RA, Roghair RD, Bell EF, Colaizy TT, Johnson KJ, Schmelzel ML, Walker JR, Ertl T. Pituitary Glycoprotein Hormones in Human Milk before and after Pasteurization or Refrigeration. Nutrients 2020; 12:nu12030687. [PMID: 32143273 PMCID: PMC7146501 DOI: 10.3390/nu12030687] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/11/2020] [Revised: 02/26/2020] [Accepted: 03/02/2020] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Our aims were to investigate the presence of pituitary glycoprotein hormones in preterm and donor milk, and to examine the effects of Holder pasteurization and refrigeration on the levels of these hormones. We measured follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), luteinizing hormone (LH), and thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) in milk samples from mothers who delivered prematurely (n = 27) and in samples of mothers who delivered at term and donated milk to the Mother's Milk Bank of Iowa (n = 30). The gonadotropins and TSH were present in similar amounts within human milk produced for preterm and term infants. FSH increased 21% after refrigeration (p < 0.05), while LH declined by 39% (p < 0.05). Holder pasteurization decreased LH by 24% (p < 0.05) and increased TSH by 17% (p < 0.05). Holder pasteurization followed by refrigeration resulted in a 21% increase in FSH and a 41% decrease in LH (both p < 0.05), resulting in more than a 3-fold increase in donor milk FSH:LH ratios (p < 0.05 versus fresh donor milk). Despite structural similarities, the gonadotropins are differentially impacted by Holder pasteurization and refrigeration, and this results in marked alterations in the relative amount of FSH and LH that may be administered to preterm infants, potentially swinging hormonal balance towards ovarian hyperstimulation in females and hypogonadism in males.
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Affiliation(s)
- Réka A. Vass
- Departments of Neonatology and Obstetrics & Gynecology, University of Pécs Medical School, 7624 Pécs, Hungary; (R.A.V.); (T.E.)
- MTA-PTE Human Reproduction Scientific Research Group, University of Pécs, 7624 Pécs, Hungary
| | - Robert D. Roghair
- Stead Family Department of Pediatrics, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA 52242, USA; (E.F.B.); (T.T.C.); (K.J.J.); (M.L.S.); (J.R.W.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +1-319-335-9895
| | - Edward F. Bell
- Stead Family Department of Pediatrics, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA 52242, USA; (E.F.B.); (T.T.C.); (K.J.J.); (M.L.S.); (J.R.W.)
| | - Tarah T. Colaizy
- Stead Family Department of Pediatrics, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA 52242, USA; (E.F.B.); (T.T.C.); (K.J.J.); (M.L.S.); (J.R.W.)
| | - Karen J. Johnson
- Stead Family Department of Pediatrics, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA 52242, USA; (E.F.B.); (T.T.C.); (K.J.J.); (M.L.S.); (J.R.W.)
| | - Mendi L. Schmelzel
- Stead Family Department of Pediatrics, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA 52242, USA; (E.F.B.); (T.T.C.); (K.J.J.); (M.L.S.); (J.R.W.)
| | - Jacky R. Walker
- Stead Family Department of Pediatrics, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA 52242, USA; (E.F.B.); (T.T.C.); (K.J.J.); (M.L.S.); (J.R.W.)
| | - Tibor Ertl
- Departments of Neonatology and Obstetrics & Gynecology, University of Pécs Medical School, 7624 Pécs, Hungary; (R.A.V.); (T.E.)
- MTA-PTE Human Reproduction Scientific Research Group, University of Pécs, 7624 Pécs, Hungary
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17
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Sexually Dimorphic Associations between Maternal Factors and Human Milk Hormonal Concentrations. Nutrients 2020; 12:nu12010152. [PMID: 31935821 PMCID: PMC7019968 DOI: 10.3390/nu12010152] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/18/2019] [Revised: 12/22/2019] [Accepted: 12/31/2019] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
While human milk composition is characterised by marked dynamicity, we are far from having a clear picture of what factors drive this variation. Hormones in human milk are known to vary according to specific maternal phenotypes, but limited evidence shows the infant also has a role in determining milk composition. The present study aimed to investigate the interplay between maternal and infant characteristics in relation to human milk hormonal profile. In total, 501 human milk samples from mothers recruited in the Finnish STEPS cohort study (Steps to the healthy development) were analysed. Pre-pregnancy and pregnancy maternal data, socioeconomic status and infant characteristics at birth were collated. Leptin, adiponectin, insulin-like growth factor-1 and cyclic Glycine-Proline in milk were measured. Multivariate analysis of variance (MANOVA) and linear regression were utilised for statistical analysis. Sex-specific interactions with maternal factors were observed, as the infant sex mediated associations between gestational diabetes and milk adiponectin (p = 0.031), birth-mode and total protein (p = 0.003), maternal education and insulin-like growth factor-1: cyclic Glycine-Proline ratio (p = 0.035). Our results suggest that changes in human milk composition are associated with interactions between maternal and infant characteristics and pathophysiological factors. Future work should expand on these findings and further explore the link between hormonal profiles in human milk and infant outcomes.
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18
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Considerations for Preterm Human Milk Feedings When Caring for Mothers Who Are Overweight or Obese. Adv Neonatal Care 2019; 19:361-370. [PMID: 31651470 DOI: 10.1097/anc.0000000000000650] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Mother's milk is the recommended source of nutrition for all newborns. Preterm infants may be further compromised by maternal factors that impede successful lactation and alter milk composition. PURPOSE To review and summarize the state of the science regarding implications of maternal overweight and obesity on successful lactation and associated alterations in preterm mother's milk composition. METHODS/SEARCH STRATEGY PubMed, EMBASE, and Web of Science searches were performed using relevant key words to identify references addressing maternal overweight or obesity, prematurity, human milk, and lactation. FINDINGS/RESULTS In the United States, more than half of women enter pregnancy with an overweight or obese body mass index. These women have increased risk of adverse pregnancy outcomes and obstetric complications that can undermine successful initiation and continuation of lactation, including preterm birth. Maternal overweight and obesity are also associated with alterations in mother's milk composition. IMPLICATIONS FOR PRACTICE Mother-preterm infant dyads affected by maternal overweight and obesity are at risk for barriers to initiation and continuation of lactation. Support for early initiation of milk expression is needed. Continued support, especially during the first weeks of lactation, can facilitate sustained milk production. IMPLICATIONS FOR RESEARCH Considerable knowledge gaps remain in this area of human milk science. Future research is needed to facilitate more comprehensive understanding of differences in milk composition associated with maternal overweight and obesity and their impact on clinical outcomes in the preterm infant.
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