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Baumgartel K. Breastfeeding Measurement - Teleological Considerations: Human Milk Collection for Research. J Hum Lact 2024; 40:356-362. [PMID: 38855832 DOI: 10.1177/08903344241254827] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/11/2024]
Abstract
We discuss the evolution and composition of breast milk and briefly describe how mammalian evolution resulted in lactation, which played a crucial role in infant growth and development. We focus on three teleological factors that significantly contribute to breast milk composition: (1) biological sex at birth, (2) gestational age, and (3) circadian rhythms. We also explain how these factors lead to variability in human milk composition. We emphasize the importance of standardizing the definitions of "preterm" and "term" to accurately study the effects of gestational age on milk composition. Finally, we discuss the role of the circadian clock in regulating lactation and the impact of breast milk on fetal and infant sleep. Investigators may integrate these critical factors when designing a research study that involves the collection of breast milk samples. Teleological factors greatly influence milk composition, and these factors may be considered when designing a study that requires breast milk. We provide both the rationale and application of solutions to address these factors.
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Melnik BC, Weiskirchen R, Stremmel W, John SM, Schmitz G. Risk of Fat Mass- and Obesity-Associated Gene-Dependent Obesogenic Programming by Formula Feeding Compared to Breastfeeding. Nutrients 2024; 16:2451. [PMID: 39125332 PMCID: PMC11314333 DOI: 10.3390/nu16152451] [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: 06/18/2024] [Revised: 07/21/2024] [Accepted: 07/25/2024] [Indexed: 08/12/2024] Open
Abstract
It is the purpose of this review to compare differences in postnatal epigenetic programming at the level of DNA and RNA methylation and later obesity risk between infants receiving artificial formula feeding (FF) in contrast to natural breastfeeding (BF). FF bears the risk of aberrant epigenetic programming at the level of DNA methylation and enhances the expression of the RNA demethylase fat mass- and obesity-associated gene (FTO), pointing to further deviations in the RNA methylome. Based on a literature search through Web of Science, Google Scholar, and PubMed databases concerning the dietary and epigenetic factors influencing FTO gene and FTO protein expression and FTO activity, FTO's impact on postnatal adipogenic programming was investigated. Accumulated translational evidence underscores that total protein intake as well as tryptophan, kynurenine, branched-chain amino acids, milk exosomal miRNAs, NADP, and NADPH are crucial regulators modifying FTO gene expression and FTO activity. Increased FTO-mTORC1-S6K1 signaling may epigenetically suppress the WNT/β-catenin pathway, enhancing adipocyte precursor cell proliferation and adipogenesis. Formula-induced FTO-dependent alterations of the N6-methyladenosine (m6A) RNA methylome may represent novel unfavorable molecular events in the postnatal development of adipogenesis and obesity, necessitating further investigations. BF provides physiological epigenetic DNA and RNA regulation, a compelling reason to rely on BF.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bodo C. Melnik
- Department of Dermatology, Environmental Medicine and Health Theory, University of Osnabrück, D-49076 Osnabrück, Germany
| | - Ralf Weiskirchen
- Institute of Molecular Pathobiochemistry, Experimental Gene Therapy and Clinical Chemistry (IFMPEGKC), RWTH University Hospital Aachen, D-52074 Aachen, Germany;
| | - Wolfgang Stremmel
- Praxis for Internal Medicine, Beethovenstrasse 2, D-76530 Baden-Baden, Germany;
| | - Swen Malte John
- Department of Dermatology, Environmental Medicine and Health Theory, University of Osnabrück, D-49076 Osnabrück, Germany
- Institute for Interdisciplinary Dermatological Prevention and Rehabilitation (iDerm), University of Osnabrück, D-49076 Osnabrück, Germany;
| | - Gerd Schmitz
- Institute for Clinical Chemistry and Laboratory Medicine, University Hospital of Regensburg, D-93053 Regensburg, Germany;
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Qureshi R, Fewtrell M, Wells JCK, Dib S. The association between maternal factors and milk hormone concentrations: a systematic review. Front Nutr 2024; 11:1390232. [PMID: 39021603 PMCID: PMC11253774 DOI: 10.3389/fnut.2024.1390232] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/22/2024] [Accepted: 06/14/2024] [Indexed: 07/20/2024] Open
Abstract
Background Breast milk is the gold standard for infant feeding. It is a dynamic biological fluid rich in numerous bioactive components. Emerging research suggests that these components, including hormones, may serve as signals between mother and offspring. From an evolutionary perspective, maternal hormonal signals could allow co-adaptation of maternal and offspring phenotype, with implications for their Darwinian fitness. However, a series of steps need to be considered to establish the role of a component as a signal and this systematic review focuses on one step: 'Do maternal factors influence the concentration of milk hormones?' Objective To systematically review human studies which analyze the association between maternal factors and the concentration of hormones in breast milk. Methods Three databases were searched for studies reporting the association of maternal factors including body mass index (BMI), weight, fat mass, age, ethnicity, smoking with hormones such as adiponectin, leptin, insulin, ghrelin, and cortisol in breast milk. Results Thirty-three studies were eligible for inclusion. Maternal BMI was positively associated with milk leptin (20/21 studies) and with milk insulin (4/6 studies). Maternal weight also displayed a positive correlation with milk leptin levels, and maternal diabetes status was positively associated with milk insulin concentrations. Conversely, evidence for associations between maternal fat mass, smoking, ethnicity and other maternal factors and hormone levels in breast milk was inconclusive or lacking. Conclusion Current evidence is consistent with a signaling role for leptin and insulin in breast milk, however other steps need to be investigated to understand the role of these components as definitive signals. This review represents a first step in establishing the role of signaling components in human milk and highlights other issues that need to be considered going forward.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Mary Fewtrell
- UCL Great Ormond Street Institute of Child Health, London, United Kingdom
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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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Sudron EL, Kinaston RL, Cawte H, Kleffmann T, Kumar A, Kramer R, Stirling C, Reid M, Barr D, McStay A, Lawrence M, King K, Halcrow SE. Extracting the truth through chemical analyses: Early life histories of Victorian-era dental patients in Aotearoa New Zealand. AMERICAN JOURNAL OF BIOLOGICAL ANTHROPOLOGY 2024; 183:141-156. [PMID: 37925739 DOI: 10.1002/ajpa.24863] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/18/2023] [Revised: 09/15/2023] [Accepted: 10/02/2023] [Indexed: 11/07/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES There are few bioarcheological analyses of life experiences in colonial period Aotearoa New Zealand, despite this being a time of major adaptation and social change. In our study, early life histories are constructed from multi-isotope and enamel peptide analysis of permanent first molars associated with Victorian era dental practices operating between AD 1881 and 1905 in Invercargill. Chemical analyses of the teeth provide insight into the childhood feeding practices, diet, and mobility of the people who had their teeth extracted. MATERIALS AND METHODS Four permanent left mandibular first molars were analyzed from a cache of teeth discovered at the Leviathan Gift Depot site during excavations in 2019. The methods used were: (1) enamel peptide analysis to assess chromosomal sex; (2) bulk (δ13 Ccarbonate ) and incremental (δ13 Ccollagen and δ15 N) isotope analysis of dentin to assess childhood diet; and (3) strontium (87 Sr/86 Sr) and oxygen (δ18 O) isotope analysis of enamel to assess childhood residency. Two modern permanent first molars from known individuals were analyzed as controls. RESULTS The archaeological teeth were from three chromosomal males and one female. The protein and whole diets were predominately based on C3 -plants and domestic animal products (meat and milk). A breastfeeding signal was only identified in one historic male. All individuals likely had childhood residences in Aotearoa. DISCUSSION Unlike most bioarcheological studies that rely on the remains of the dead, the teeth analysed in this study were extracted from living people. We suggest that the dental patients were likely second or third generation colonists to Aotearoa, with fairly similar childhood diets. They were potentially lower-class individuals either living in, or passing through, the growing colonial center of Invercargill.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emma L Sudron
- Department of Anatomy, University of Otago, Dunedin, New Zealand
- Centre for Social and Cultural Research, Griffith University, Nathan, Australia
- Australian Research Centre for Human Evolution, Griffith University, Nathan, Australia
| | - Rebecca L Kinaston
- Centre for Social and Cultural Research, Griffith University, Nathan, Australia
- BioArch South, Waitati, New Zealand
| | - Hayden Cawte
- New Zealand Heritage Properties, Dunedin and Invercargill, New Zealand
| | - Torsten Kleffmann
- Centre for Protein Research, Research Infrastructure Centre, University of Otago, Dunedin, New Zealand
| | - Abhishek Kumar
- North Region Environmental, California Department of Transportation, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - Robyn Kramer
- Centre for Trace Element Analysis, Department of Geology, University of Otago, Dunedin, New Zealand
| | - Claudine Stirling
- Centre for Trace Element Analysis, Department of Geology, University of Otago, Dunedin, New Zealand
- Department of Geology, University of Otago, Dunedin, New Zealand
| | - Malcolm Reid
- Centre for Trace Element Analysis, Department of Geology, University of Otago, Dunedin, New Zealand
| | - David Barr
- Centre for Trace Element Analysis, Department of Geology, University of Otago, Dunedin, New Zealand
| | - Amy McStay
- New Zealand Heritage Properties, Dunedin and Invercargill, New Zealand
| | - Megan Lawrence
- New Zealand Heritage Properties, Dunedin and Invercargill, New Zealand
| | - Kathryn King
- Department of Anatomy, University of Otago, Dunedin, New Zealand
| | - Siân E Halcrow
- Department of Anatomy, University of Otago, Dunedin, New Zealand
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Groff E, Steger F. The Ethics of Ancient Lactation and the Cult of the Perfect Breastfeeding Mother. Healthcare (Basel) 2023; 11:2941. [PMID: 37998433 PMCID: PMC10671742 DOI: 10.3390/healthcare11222941] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/26/2023] [Revised: 10/27/2023] [Accepted: 11/08/2023] [Indexed: 11/25/2023] Open
Abstract
Breastfeeding is a key issue found in ancient sources that resonates with public debates today, affecting women in different parts of the world and of all social classes. The aim of this research was to identify breastfeeding narratives in ancient medical and philosophical texts from the 1st to the 6th century CE that address ethical issues in the medical management and social perception of new mothers. We examined 15 literary sources and one funerary inscription on lactation and critically evaluated the ancient idea of the perfect breastfeeding mother versus the non-breastfeeding mother. We then discussed our historical data in terms of objectivity and significance in relation to contemporary attitudes towards motherhood and lactation, e.g., (1) the cult of the perfect, breastfeeding mother in contemporary lactation education and (2) the onset of conditions which may affect normal breastfeeding, such as dysphoric milk ejection reflex (D-MER), breastfeeding aversion response (BAR) or post-partum depression. The analysis of the results showed that in both ancient and contemporary postnatal health care: (1) good mothering is associated with breastfeeding and (2) alternative feeding methods are acknowledged, but never as the best, natural option. Finally, our analysis shows that public health policies on breastfeeding and mothers' own knowledge of their bodies are contested between nursing theories, social expectations and economic factors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elisa Groff
- Institute of the History, Philosophy and Ethics of Medicine, Ulm University, 89081 Ulm, Germany;
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Dib S, Fewtrell M, Wells JCK. Maternal capital predicts investment in infant growth and development through lactation. Front Nutr 2023; 10:1272938. [PMID: 37885440 PMCID: PMC10598761 DOI: 10.3389/fnut.2023.1272938] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/04/2023] [Accepted: 09/15/2023] [Indexed: 10/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction Maternal capital (MC) is a broad term from evolutionary biology, referring to any aspects of maternal phenotype that represent resources available for investment in offspring. We investigated MC in breastfeeding mothers of late preterm and early term infants, examining its relationship with infant and breastfeeding outcomes. We also determined whether MC modified the effect of the relaxation intervention on these outcomes. Methods The data was collected as part of a randomized controlled trial investigating breastfeeding relaxation in 72 mothers of late preterm and early term infants. Indicators of MC (socioeconomic, social, somatic, reproductive, psychological, and cognitive) were collected at baseline at 2-3 weeks post-delivery. Principal Component Analysis was conducted for the MC measures and two components were identified: 1."Subjective" maternal capital which included stress and depression scores, and 2."Objective" maternal capital which included height, infant birth weight, and verbal memory. Univariate linear regression was conducted to assess the relationship between objective and subjective MC (predictors) and infant growth, infant behavior, maternal behavior, and infant feeding variables (outcomes) at 6-8 weeks. The interaction of MC and intervention assignment with outcomes was assessed. Results Higher objective MC was significantly associated with higher infant weight (0.43; 95%CI 0.21,0.66) and length z-scores (0.47; 95%CI 0.19,0.76), shorter duration of crying (-17.5; 95%CI -33.2,-1.9), and lower food (-0.28; 95%CI -0.48,-0.08) and satiety responsiveness (-0.17; 95%CI -0.31,-0.02) at 6-8 weeks. It was also associated with greater maternal responsiveness to infant cues (-0.05, 95%CI -0.09,-0.02 for non-responsiveness). Greater subjective maternal capital was significantly associated with higher breastfeeding frequency (2.3; 95%CI 0.8,3.8) and infant appetite (0.30; 95%CI 0.07,0.54). There was a significant interaction between the intervention assignment and objective MC for infant length, with trends for infant weight and crying, which indicated that the intervention had greater effects among mothers with lower capital. Conclusion Higher MC was associated with better infant growth and shorter crying duration. This was possibly mediated through more frequent breastfeeding and prompt responsiveness to infant cues, reflecting greater maternal investment. The findings also suggest that a relaxation intervention was most effective among those with low MC, suggesting some reduction in social inequalities in health.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Jonathan C. K. Wells
- Population, Policy and Practice, UCL Great Ormond Street Institute of Child Health, London, United Kingdom
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Paramashanti BA, Dibley MJ, Huda TM, Prabandari YS, Alam NA. Factors influencing breastfeeding continuation and formula feeding beyond six months in rural and urban households in Indonesia: a qualitative investigation. Int Breastfeed J 2023; 18:48. [PMID: 37653430 PMCID: PMC10472632 DOI: 10.1186/s13006-023-00586-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/21/2022] [Accepted: 08/25/2023] [Indexed: 09/02/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Global and Indonesian guidelines suggest that breastfeeding should continue for at least the first two years of life. While many studies have focused on six-month exclusive breastfeeding practices, little is known about why mothers do not sustain breastfeeding beyond this period. This qualitative study aimed to explore factors influencing breastfeeding continuation and formula feeding beyond six months, regardless of any additional food consumed, focusing on Indonesia's rural and urban areas. METHODS We collected the data through 46 in-depth interviews in Pati District and Surakarta City, Central Java, Indonesia. Participants were mothers, grandmothers, health care practitioners, and village kader (frontline female health workers). We used thematic analysis combining deductive and inductive techniques for analysing the data. RESULTS Rural mothers practised breastfeeding and intended to breastfeed for a longer duration than urban mothers. Maternal attitude towards breastfeeding, breastfeeding knowledge, previous experiences, and other breastfeeding strategies (e.g., enhancing maternal dietary quality) positively influenced breastfeeding sustainability. In the urban setting, mothers encountered several breastfeeding barriers, such as perceived breast milk insufficiency and child hunger and satiety, child biting, and breastfeeding refusal, causing them to provide formula milk as a breast milk substitute or supplement. In addition, families, communities, health practitioners, and employment influenced maternal decisions in breastfeeding continuation and formula-feeding practices. CONCLUSIONS Optimal breastfeeding practices up to two years of age are determined by the individual and setting (i.e., community, healthcare, employment) factors. Providing breastfeeding education covering practical breastfeeding guidance will encourage mothers to breastfeed for longer. Such interventions should involve families, communities, health workers, and the work environment as a breastfeeding support system. Policymakers should develop, enforce, and monitor the implementation of breastfeeding policies to protect, promote, and support breastfeeding in households, communities, health systems, and work settings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bunga Astria Paramashanti
- Department of Nutrition, Faculty of Health Sciences, Universitas Alma Ata, Yogyakarta, Indonesia.
- Sydney School of Public Health, Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia.
| | - Michael J Dibley
- Sydney School of Public Health, Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Tanvir M Huda
- Sydney School of Public Health, Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Yayi Suryo Prabandari
- Department of Health Behavior, Environment, and Social Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Public Health, and Nursing, Universitas Gadjah Mada, Yogyakarta, Indonesia
| | - Neeloy Ashraful Alam
- Sydney School of Public Health, Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
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Tsutaya T, Mizushima N. Evolutionary biological perspectives on current social issues of breastfeeding and weaning. AMERICAN JOURNAL OF BIOLOGICAL ANTHROPOLOGY 2023. [PMID: 36815441 DOI: 10.1002/ajpa.24710] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/25/2022] [Revised: 01/25/2023] [Accepted: 01/29/2023] [Indexed: 02/24/2023]
Abstract
Breastfeeding and weaning are actively studied from evolutionary, medical, and social research perspectives because of their close association with infant mortality, lifetime health, and human population dynamics. Each discipline benefits from an interdisciplinary exchange of knowledge regarding the bases, processes, and consequences of these phenomena. However, current social issues related to breastfeeding and weaning have received little attention from an evolutionary biology perspective. We address this gap by reviewing current social issues related to human breastfeeding and weaning in an evolutionary framework. This approach helps build a conceptual framework with the goal of better understanding ultimate causes of or influences on these current social issues. The six social issues reviewed here fall into three categories: the spatiotemporal constraints of breastfeeding, abuse of breast milk as valuable material, and mismatch in breastfeeding practices. Some of these issues have an evolutionary basis. We analyze the structure of these social issues and discuss their possible solutions in terms of extension of the trade-off theory in evolutionary biology. Our discussion on the current social issues in breastfeeding and weaning highlights the effectiveness of an approach rooted in evolutionary theory and biological anthropology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Takumi Tsutaya
- Department of Evolutionary Studies of Biosystems, Research Center for Integrative Evolutionary Science, The Graduate University for Advanced Studies, Hayama, Kanagawa, Japan.,Globe Institute, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Nozomi Mizushima
- Department of Social System Design, Eikei University of Hiroshima, Naka-ku, Hiroshima, Japan
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Interventions and Programs to Promote Breastfeeding in Arabic-Speaking Countries: A Scoping Review. Matern Child Health J 2023; 27:774-794. [PMID: 36729325 PMCID: PMC9893976 DOI: 10.1007/s10995-023-03595-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 01/18/2023] [Indexed: 02/03/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Low prevalence of exclusive breastfeeding in the Arab world is concerning and suboptimal breastfeeding is a leading child health risk factor in several Arab States. Breastfeeding education has the capacity to improve breastfeeding knowledge and practice, thus positively impacting infant and maternal health. The purpose of this review is to identify and examine the impact of breastfeeding promotion interventions across the Arab world. METHOD A scoping review of the literature was conducted across seventeen databases for relevant publications published through October 2021 to find studies in Arab countries, that involved breastfeeding as an intervention component. Twenty-one articles met inclusion criteria and were reviewed. RESULTS Individual and community based educational interventions offer the opportunity to positively impact the knowledge, attitudes, and practices of breastfeeding in new mothers in Arab countries. Increased breastfeeding has the potential to lead to improved neonate and maternal health. In addition to significant benefits found across individual and community-based interventions in a variety of Arab countries, there is also evidence that interventions that improve the knowledge of health care professionals and/or the practices of a health care system can contribute to subsequent increases in breastfeeding rates. DISCUSSION Breastfeeding education is a low-cost and high-impact public health tool that can impact infant and maternal health and potentially increase breastfeeding adherence in the Arab world.
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Yu J, Wei Z, Wells JC, Fewtrell M. Effects of relaxation therapy on maternal psychological status and infant growth following late preterm and early-term delivery: a randomized controlled trial. Am J Clin Nutr 2023; 117:340-349. [PMID: 36811573 DOI: 10.1016/j.ajcnut.2022.12.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/08/2022] [Revised: 11/30/2022] [Accepted: 12/08/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Maternal stress is one modifiable variable that could influence mother-infant signaling and negatively affect breastfeeding and infant growth. OBJECTIVES This study aimed to test the hypothesis that relaxation therapy would reduce maternal stress and improve infant growth, behavior, and breastfeeding outcomes after late preterm (LP) and early-term (ET) delivery. METHODS A single-blind randomized controlled trial was conducted in healthy Chinese primiparous mother-infant pairs after LP or ET delivery (34+0-37+6 gestation weeks). Mothers were randomly assigned to the intervention group (IG, listening to relaxation meditation at least once a day) or control group (CG, normal care). Primary outcomes-changes in maternal stress (perceived stress scale), anxiety (Beck Anxiety Inventory), and infant weight and length standard deviation score-were assessed at 1 wk and 8 wks postpartum. Secondary outcomes-breast milk energy and macronutrient composition, maternal breastfeeding attitudes, infant behaviors (3-d diary), and 24-hour milk intake-were assessed at 8 wks. RESULTS In total, 96 mother-infant pairs were recruited. There was a significantly greater reduction in maternal perceived stress (Perceived Stress Scale score) (mean difference [MD] = 2.65; 95% CI: 0.8, 4.5) and significantly greater infant weight standard deviation score gain (MD = 0.51; 95% CI: 0.2, 0.9) from 1 wk to 8 wks in the IG than those in the CG. Exploratory analyses showed a significant interaction between intervention and sex, with greater effects on weight gain in female infants. Mothers of female infants used the intervention more frequently with significantly higher milk energy observed at 8 wks. CONCLUSIONS The relaxation meditation tape is a simple, effective practical tool that could easily be used in clinical settings to support breastfeeding mothers after LP and ET delivery. The findings need confirmation in larger groups and in other populations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jinyue Yu
- Population, Policy and Practice Research and Teaching Department, UCL Great Ormond Street Institute of Child Health, London, United Kingdom
| | - Zhuang Wei
- Department of Child Healthcare, Beijing Children's Hospital, Capital Medical University, National Center for Children's Health, China
| | - Jonathan Ck Wells
- Population, Policy and Practice Research and Teaching Department, UCL Great Ormond Street Institute of Child Health, London, United Kingdom
| | - Mary Fewtrell
- Population, Policy and Practice Research and Teaching Department, UCL Great Ormond Street Institute of Child Health, London, United Kingdom.
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12
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Murphy S, Carter L, Al Shizawi T, Queally M, Brennan S, O'Neill S. Exploring the relationship between breastfeeding and the incidence of infant illnesses in Ireland: evidence from a nationally representative prospective cohort study. BMC Public Health 2023; 23:140. [PMID: 36670399 PMCID: PMC9854149 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-023-15045-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/24/2022] [Accepted: 01/12/2023] [Indexed: 01/22/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Ireland has one of the lowest BF rates in the world. This study investigates the association between breastfeeding and infant health in Ireland. METHODS A cross-sectional, secondary analysis of data collected from Growing Up in Ireland (GUI): the National Longitudinal Study of Children was conducted. The average morbidity for 2212. infants exclusively breastfed for at least 90 days (EBF90days) was compared to data for 3987 infants in the non-breastfed (Non-BF) group. Data were weighted using entropy balancing to ensure the comparability of groups. Sensitivity analyses considered alternative definitions of the breastfeeding group. RESULTS Infants who were EBF90days were significantly less likely to be admitted to hospital (CI: - 0.06 to - 0.03), spent less nights in hospital (CI: - 0.37 to - 0.11), and were less likely to develop respiratory diseases including asthma (CI: - 0.03 to - 0.01), chest infections (CI: - 0.12 to - 0.08), snuffles/common colds (CI: - 0.07 to - 0.02), ear infections (CI: - 0.08 to - 0.04), eczema (CI: - 0.08 to - 0.04), skin problems (CI: - 0.04 to - 0.00), wheezing or asthma (CI: - 0.06 to - 0.03), vomiting (CI: - 0.03 to - 0.00), and colic (CI: - 0.04 to - 0.01). Further outcomes such as current health of the infant at time of interview (CI: - 0.04 to - 0.00), feeding problems (CI: - 0.04 to - 0.02) and sleeping problems (CI: - 0.02 to - 0.00) indicated a protective effect of EBF90days versus Non-BF. However, these infants were also more likely to fail to gain weight (CI: 0.01 to 0.02) and were at a slightly higher risk of developing nappy rash (CI: 0.00 to 0.02). CONCLUSION Exclusive breastfeeding for 90+ days is associated with protection against childhood morbidity. Given the protective effect of breastfeeding on adverse health effects in infants, policy makers should prioritise policies that support, promote and protect exclusive breastfeeding.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah Murphy
- School of Medicine, University of Galway, Galway, Ireland
| | - Laura Carter
- J.E. Cairnes School of Business and Economics, University of Galway, Galway, Ireland
| | | | - Michelle Queally
- J.E. Cairnes School of Business and Economics, University of Galway, Galway, Ireland
- Department of Enterprise and Technology, Atlantic Technological University, Galway, Ireland
| | - Sarah Brennan
- Department of General Practice & Donegal Medical Academy, University of Galway, Galway, Ireland.
- General Practice, Carrigart Health Centre, Carrigart, Carrigart, Co. Donegal, Ireland.
| | - Stephen O'Neill
- Department of Health Services Research and Policy, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK.
- Centre for Economic and Social Research on Dementia, University of Galway, Galway, Ireland.
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13
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Akyıldız D, Bay B. The effect of breastfeeding support provided by video call on postpartum anxiety, breastfeeding self-efficacy, and newborn outcomes: A randomized controlled study. Jpn J Nurs Sci 2023; 20:e12509. [PMID: 36071624 DOI: 10.1111/jjns.12509] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/21/2022] [Revised: 07/23/2022] [Accepted: 08/12/2022] [Indexed: 01/05/2023]
Abstract
AIM To examine the effects of breastfeeding support given by video call on anxiety, breastfeeding self-efficacy, and newborn outcomes. METHODS We conducted a randomized controlled experimental trial with 72 women and their babies. Participants were randomly assigned to the intervention (video call) group (VCG: standard care + video call) and control group (CG: standard care). The primary outcomes of this study were the mean postpartum maternal anxiety level and the mean breastfeeding self-efficacy level. The secondary outcome was neonatal outcomes. This study followed the CONSORT (Consolidated Standards of Reporting Trials) checklist. RESULTS Women in VCG had lower anxiety levels than the CG at postpartum 2 weeks (mean difference [MD] 25.42, p = .000) and 1 month (MD 47.72, p = .000). The breastfeeding self-efficacy level of women in the VCG was higher than the CG at postpartum 2 weeks (MD 13.18, p = .007) and 1 month (MD 10.1, p = .001). The newborns in VCG had higher weight gain and daily breastfeeding frequency than the CG at the postpartum second week (MD 9.64, p = .001, MD 2.88, p = .000; respectively) and 1 month (MD 47.16, p = .000, MD 2.98, p = .000; respectively). There were lower rates of challenges of breastfeeding, hyperbilirubinemia, and feeding with formula in VCG than CG at the postpartum second week (p = .043, p = .043, p = .039; respectively). CONCLUSIONS Breastfeeding support via video calling has positive effects on maternal anxiety, breastfeeding self-efficacy, and newborn health. Postpartum caregivers may benefit from video calling for breastfeeding support.
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Affiliation(s)
- Deniz Akyıldız
- Division of Midwifery, Kahramanmaras Sutcu Imam University, Faculty of Health Sciences, Onikişubat, Turkey
| | - Betül Bay
- School of Nursing and Midwifery/College of Medical and Dental Sciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
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14
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Ukraintsev SE, Samal TN. The Appearance and Establishment of Breastfeeding Amongst Animals: From Echidna and Platypus to Mammals and Human. CURRENT PEDIATRICS 2022. [DOI: 10.15690/vsp.v21i6.2492] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
The paper provides review of the scientific literature dedicated to the evolutionary aspects of breastfeeding in the animal kingdom. Differences in breast milk composition amongst different mammals along with changes in breast milk composition during evolution provided. Special attention is paid to oligosaccharides — unique components of the breast milk of Homo sapiens.
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15
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Nuampa S, Patil CL, Prasong S, Kuesakul K, Sudphet M. Exploring the Association between Socioeconomic and Psychological Factors and Breastfeeding in the First Year of Life during the COVID-19 Pandemic in Thailand. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 20:130. [PMID: 36612453 PMCID: PMC9819422 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph20010130] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/11/2022] [Revised: 12/15/2022] [Accepted: 12/20/2022] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
Breastfeeding is essential for the survival, nutrition, and development of infants and young children. As a result of COVID-19’s effects of economic crises and psychological difficulties, breastfeeding outcomes have declined. The purpose of this study was to examine the association between socioeconomic and psychological factors with breastfeeding duration in the first year of life during the COVID-19 pandemic. Cross-sectional online surveys (n = 390) were conducted between August and November 2021. The participants were women aged 15 years and above who had given birth within 6−12 months before data collection and delivered in public hospitals in the top three provinces with the worst COVID-19 outbreaks during the second wave in Thailand. The average breastfeeding duration in this study was 6.20 months (±2.5) with a range of 1−12 months. Of mothers, 44.9% continued to breastfeed until between 6 and 12 months of age. In a multiple regression analysis, family income (Beta = 0.112, t = 1.988, p < 0.05), breastfeeding intention (beta = 0.097, t = 2.142, p < 0.05), intended breastfeeding duration (beta = 0.391, t = 8.355, p < 0.05), intention to receive vaccination (beta =0.129, t = 2.720, p < 0.05), and anxiety (beta = 0.118, t = 2.237, p < 0.05) were associated with breastfeeding duration in the first year of life (F (7, 382) = 20.977, p < 0.05, R2 = 0.278, R2 Adjusted = 0.264). During COVID-19, psychological factors were more strongly associated with breastfeeding duration in the first year of life than socioeconomic factors. Healthcare providers should promote breastfeeding intention, motivate COVID-19 vaccination intention, and support mental health among lactating mothers, particularly in the event of a pandemic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sasitara Nuampa
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecological Nursing, Faculty of Nursing, Mahidol University, Bangkok 10700, Thailand
| | - Crystal L. Patil
- Department of Human Development Nursing Science, College of Nursing, University of Illinois Chicago, Chicago, IL 60612, USA
| | - Sudhathai Prasong
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecological Nursing, Faculty of Nursing, Mahidol University, Bangkok 10700, Thailand
| | - Kornkanok Kuesakul
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecological Nursing, Faculty of Nursing, Mahidol University, Bangkok 10700, Thailand
| | - Metpapha Sudphet
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Siriraj Hospital, Mahidol University, Bangkok 10700, Thailand
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16
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Fernandez-Vaz C, Gonzalez-Sanz JD. Cortisol, Maternal Stress, and Breastfeeding Rate at Hospital Discharge: A Systematic Review. Breastfeed Med 2022; 17:984-993. [PMID: 36378851 DOI: 10.1089/bfm.2022.0165] [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: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Introduction: Breastfeeding is considered the best way to provide essential and necessary nutrients to the newborn, intervening in its growth and development. However, early abandonment of this method is quite common, due to various factors such as stress. Objectives: To determine whether the level of postpartum cortisol can serve as an indicator of maternal stress and whether there is a relationship between the level of cortisol and the rate of exclusive breastfeeding (EBF) at hospital discharge. Methodology: Systematic review of the literature under the PRISMA guidelines. PubMed, Web of Science, CINAHL, and Scopus databases were used. Original articles published from 2017 to 2022 in English, French, Portuguese, and Spanish were included. All study designs were eligible. Of the 3,712 records initially identified, 15 studies were included in this review. Results: Elevated cortisol levels, due to immediate postpartum stressors, have direct effects on the performance of the essential hormones in breast milk production. The EBF rates are negatively influenced by perceived maternal stress. Conclusion: Cortisol levels may be a good indicator of the level of stress to which the mother is subjected during the immediate postpartum period.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Juan D Gonzalez-Sanz
- Nursing Department, COIDESO Research Center, University of Huelva, Huelva, Spain
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17
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Vázquez‐Vázquez ADP, Fewtrell MS, Chan‐García H, Batún‐Marrufo C, Dickinson F, Wells JCK. Do maternal grandmothers influence breastfeeding duration and infant nutrition? Evidence from Merida, Mexico. AMERICAN JOURNAL OF BIOLOGICAL ANTHROPOLOGY 2022; 179:444-459. [PMID: 36790606 PMCID: PMC9826188 DOI: 10.1002/ajpa.24623] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/03/2021] [Revised: 07/25/2022] [Accepted: 08/29/2022] [Indexed: 11/10/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Breast-feeding is sensitive to somatic, hormonal, behavioral and psychological components of maternal capital. However, through grandmothering, older women may also influence breast-feeding by transferring informational resources to their daughters. We hypothesized that mothers with prolonged instrumental support from their own mother are more likely to have received advice and to have favorable attitudes/practices regarding breastfeeding, compared to those lacking such support, with implications for the grandchild's somatic capital. METHODS We recruited 90 mother-infant dyads (52 with grandmaternal support, 38 without) in Merida, Yucatan, Mexico. All children were first-borns, aged ~2 years. Anthropometry and body composition were assessed. Data on grandmother's breastfeeding advice and maternal breastfeeding duration were obtained by questionnaire. Maternal attitudes to breast-feeding were assessed using the Iowa Infant Feeding Attitude Scale. RESULTS Women with instrumental support were more likely to have received grandmaternal advice during pregnancy/infancy on exclusive breast-feeding duration (60% vs. 37%, p = 0.033) and the type of first complementary food (81% vs. 47%, p = 0.001). However, women with support had a less favorable attitude to breastfeeding than those without and breastfed their children for less time (median 5 vs. 10.5 months, p = 0.01). No group differences were found in children's length, weight, skinfolds or lean mass z-score. DISCUSSION Although grandmothers providing instrumental support provided advice regarding breastfeeding, their attitudes may reflect issues beyond nutritional health. Advice of maternal grandmothers did not promote extended breastfeeding, however the differences in breastfeeding attitudes were not associated with the children's nutritional status. Grandmothers should be included in public health interventions promoting breastfeeding.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Mary S. Fewtrell
- Childhood Nutrition Research Centre, UCLGreat Ormond Street Institute of Child HealthLondonUK
| | - Hidekel Chan‐García
- Human Ecology DepartmentCentre for Research and Advanced Studies (Cinvestav)MeridaYucatanMexico
| | - Carolina Batún‐Marrufo
- Human Ecology DepartmentCentre for Research and Advanced Studies (Cinvestav)MeridaYucatanMexico
| | - Federico Dickinson
- Human Ecology DepartmentCentre for Research and Advanced Studies (Cinvestav)MeridaYucatanMexico
| | - Jonathan C. K. Wells
- Childhood Nutrition Research Centre, UCLGreat Ormond Street Institute of Child HealthLondonUK
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18
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Nuampa S, Ratinthorn A, Patil CL, Kuesakul K, Prasong S, Sudphet M. Impact of personal and environmental factors affecting exclusive breastfeeding practices in the first six months during the COVID-19 pandemic in Thailand: a mixed-methods approach. Int Breastfeed J 2022; 17:73. [PMID: 36253791 PMCID: PMC9576315 DOI: 10.1186/s13006-022-00515-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/20/2022] [Accepted: 09/28/2022] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Exclusive breastfeeding (EBF) for six months is recommended as one of the most important ways to support child health and survival, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic. However, breastfeeding women encountered several obstacles during the pandemic. The purpose of this study was to conduct a survey to document breastfeeding practices, EBF rates and associated factors with six month exclusive breastfeeding during the second wave of the coronavirus outbreak in Thailand. Methods A mixed-methods design that included a cross-sectional survey (n = 390) and semi-structured in-depth interviews (n = 15) was carried out between August and November 2021. Participants were women aged ≥ 15 years who had given birth within 6–12 months before data collection and delivered in three public hospitals in the top three provinces with the most severe COVID-19 outbreaks. Results The median duration of EBF was four months (interquartile range, IQR: 1–6 months) and 37.4% of women exclusively breastfed for six months. From binary logistic regression models, several personal factors were associated with exclusive breastfeeding for six months including being a housewife (AOR 2.848; 95% CI 1.512, 5.367), perceived sufficiency of family income (AOR 2.502; 95% CI 1.362, 4.594), working from home/business (AOR 2.071; 95% CI 1.074, 3.995), breastfeeding intention (AOR 1.162; 95% CI 1.116, 1.210), and maternal age (AOR 0.932; 95% CI 0.882, 0.986). From qualitative interviews, women who were able to exclusively breastfed during the outbreak explained five themes that were a protective shield; I have to save money, I could spend all my time with my baby and breastfeed, spousal support is valuable, and opportunity to avoid the obstructed beliefs about exclusive breastfeeding. Conclusions Mothers with higher socioeconomic status and who were unemployed/worked from home and had support structures in place were able to successfully EBF during the COVID-19 outbreak. Healthcare providers can better support breastfeeding if they provide informational support and allow family members to participate in breastfeeding programs, especially spouses who provided key emotional and tangible support during pandemic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sasitara Nuampa
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecological Nursing, Faculty of Nursing, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand.
| | - Ameporn Ratinthorn
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecological Nursing, Faculty of Nursing, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Crystal L Patil
- Department of Human Development Nursing Science, College of Nursing, University of Illinois Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Kornkanok Kuesakul
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecological Nursing, Faculty of Nursing, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Sudhathai Prasong
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecological Nursing, Faculty of Nursing, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Metpapha Sudphet
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Siriraj Hospital, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand
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19
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Bengough T, Dawson S, Cheng H, McFadden A, Gavine A, Rees R, Sacks E, Hannes K. Factors that influence women's engagement with breastfeeding support: A qualitative evidence synthesis. MATERNAL & CHILD NUTRITION 2022; 18:e13405. [PMID: 36006012 PMCID: PMC9480951 DOI: 10.1111/mcn.13405] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2021] [Revised: 05/05/2022] [Accepted: 06/16/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Breastfeeding is an integral part of early childhood interventions as it can prevent serious childhood and maternal illnesses. For breastfeeding support programmes to be effective, a better understanding of contextual factors that influence women's engagement and satisfaction with these programmes is needed. The aim of this synthesis is to suggest strategies to increase the level of satisfaction with support programmes and to better match the expectations and needs of women. We systematically searched for studies that used qualitative methods for data collection and analysis and that focused on women's experiences and perceptions regarding breastfeeding support programmes. We applied a maximum variation purposive sampling strategy and used thematic analysis. We assessed the methodological quality of the studies using a modified version of the CASP tool and assessed our confidence in the findings using the GRADE-CERQual approach. We included 51 studies of which we sampled 22 for in-depth analysis. Our sampled studies described the experiences of women with formal breastfeeding support by health care professionals in a hospital setting and informal support as for instance from community support groups. Our findings illustrate that the current models of breastfeeding support are dependent on a variety of contextual factors encouraging and supporting women to initiate and continue breastfeeding. They further highlight the relevance of providing different forms of support based on socio-cultural norms and personal backgrounds of women, especially if the support is one-on-one. Feeding decisions of women are situated within a woman's personal situation and may require diverse forms of support.
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Affiliation(s)
- Theresa Bengough
- Research Group SoMeTHin'K (Social, Methodological and Theoretical Innovation/Kreative), Faculty of Social SciencesKU LeuvenLeuvenBelgium
- National Centre for Early Childhood InterventionThe Austrian Public Health InstituteViennaAustria
| | - Shoba Dawson
- Faculty of Health Sciences, Bristol Medical SchoolUniversity of BristolBristolUK
| | - Hui‐Lin Cheng
- School of NursingThe Hong Kong Polytechnic UniversityKowloonHong Kong
| | - Alison McFadden
- School of Health SciencesUniversity of DundeeDundeeScotlandUK
| | - Anna Gavine
- School of Health SciencesUniversity of DundeeDundeeScotlandUK
| | - Rebecca Rees
- EPPI‐Centre, Social Science Research Unit, UCL Institute of EducationUniversity College LondonLondonUK
| | - Emma Sacks
- Department of International HealthJohns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public HealthBaltimoreMarylandUSA
| | - Karin Hannes
- Research Group SoMeTHin'K (Social, Methodological and Theoretical Innovation/Kreative), Faculty of Social SciencesKU LeuvenLeuvenBelgium
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20
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Philip RK, Worobetz A, Byrt H, Beirne I, Zutshi R, Cassidy T, Dunne CP. A repeated cross-sectional analysis of breastfeeding initiation rates in Ireland for two decades and 10 recommended priorities for improvement. MATERNAL & CHILD NUTRITION 2022; 19:e13424. [PMID: 36147028 PMCID: PMC9749595 DOI: 10.1111/mcn.13424] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/10/2022] [Revised: 07/21/2022] [Accepted: 07/29/2022] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Despite a number of public health and policy-based initiatives, Ireland's national breastfeeding rates are among the lowest globally. Regionally, the Mid-West of Ireland has historically had low breastfeeding initiation rates, and parts of its major urban area such as Limerick City suffer the highest levels of economic deprivation in the country. In that context, this repeated cross-sectional study analysed breastfeeding initiation trends in the Mid-West of Ireland for two decades, from 2001 to 2020 inclusively. Statistical analysis revealed persistently low percentages of women initiating breastfeeding in the region. Time series analyses of the data demonstrated that overall breastfeeding rates are increasing, but continue to be lower than Irish national averages. From these findings and a narrative review of published research, we determined 10 plausible reasons for these consistently low breastfeeding rates. Arising from these, we propose '10 Priorities' to increase the breastfeeding initiation rates in Ireland.
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Affiliation(s)
- Roy K. Philip
- Division of Neonatology, Department of PaediatricsUniversity Maternity Hospital LimerickLimerickIreland,School of MedicineUniversity of LimerickLimerickIreland
| | | | - Helen Byrt
- Lactation Division, Department of Nursing MidwiferyUniversity Maternity Hospital LimerickLimerickIreland
| | - Irene Beirne
- Neonatal Nursing, Department of MidwiferyUniversity Maternity Hospital LimerickLimerickIreland
| | | | - Tanya Cassidy
- Sociology and Anthropology, School of Nursing, Psychotherapy and Community HealthDublin City UniversityDublinIreland
| | - Colum P. Dunne
- School of MedicineUniversity of LimerickLimerickIreland,Centre for Interventions in Infection, Inflammation and Immunity (4i)University of Limerick School of MedicineLimerickIreland
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21
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Caffeine, Paraxanthine, Theophylline, and Theobromine Content in Human Milk. Nutrients 2022; 14:nu14112196. [PMID: 35683994 PMCID: PMC9182860 DOI: 10.3390/nu14112196] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2022] [Revised: 05/18/2022] [Accepted: 05/23/2022] [Indexed: 01/18/2023] Open
Abstract
This study aimed to assess the content of caffeine and its metabolites—paraxanthine, theophylline, and theobromine—in breast milk according to selected factors. Samples of human milk were collected from 100 women living in the east–northeast region of Poland. Information on the consumption of beverages and foods containing caffeine was collected using a 3 day food record. The determination of caffeine and its metabolite content was performed using liquid chromatography–mass spectrometry (LC–MS/MS). This study research showed that more caffeine was found in the milk of women living in cities, with secondary education, aged 34–43, and also in milk from the 3rd and 4th lactation periods (p ≤ 0.05). Factors such as place of residence, level of education, age, and stage of lactation influenced the nutritional choices of breastfeeding women, which had an impact on the level of caffeine and its metabolites in breast milk. A positive correlation was found between the consumption of caffeine with food and drinks and its level in human milk.
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22
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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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23
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Paramashanti BA, Dibley MJ, Huda TM, Alam A. Breastfeeding perceptions and exclusive breastfeeding practices: A qualitative comparative study in rural and urban Central Java, Indonesia. Appetite 2022; 170:105907. [DOI: 10.1016/j.appet.2021.105907] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/03/2021] [Revised: 12/25/2021] [Accepted: 12/29/2021] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
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24
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Consales A, Colombo L, Zanotta L, Morniroli D, Sannino P, Rampini S, Piccoli G, Donghi M, Marchisio P, Mosca F, Plevani L, Giannì ML. Pilot Feasibility Study of a Hospital-Based Post-Natal Educational Intervention on New Mothers in a BFHI-Compliant Tertiary Referral Center for Neonatal Care. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 19:ijerph19042020. [PMID: 35206209 PMCID: PMC8871806 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph19042020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/17/2022] [Revised: 02/07/2022] [Accepted: 02/09/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
The immediate post-partum period offers a valuable opportunity for parental education on various health topics. The aim of this study was to pilot test the feasibility in a tertiary referral center for neonatal care of a post-natal educational intervention (the Diary) designed to provide mothers with basic information concerning newborn care and breastfeeding. Furthermore, we aimed to evaluate its effect on exclusive breastfeeding rates at discharge and at 48 h post-discharge, and on maternal perceived support during hospital stay, compared to standard care. A single-center two-phase interventional study was carried out from 1 December 2018 to 2 June 2019. The Diary was given to mothers enrolled in Phase 2, together with the Nurse-Parent Support Tool (NPST). The Diary-NPST couples analyzed were 269. The Diaries filled out and returned were 62.2%. Overall, mothers rated the information received through the Diary as "clear and comprehensive". Exclusive breastfeeding rates at discharge resulted in being higher in Phase 1 than in Phase 2 (80.6% vs. 72.5%, p = 0.04), whereas no difference emerged in terms of exclusive breastfeeding rates at 48 h. In both phases, the median NPST total score (4.05) was high. In conclusion, we propose a new instrument of in-hospital post-natal maternal education and, in line with the current literature, we support well-designed written educational materials to promote mothers' knowledge and satisfaction with post-partum hospital assistance. Further studies that are multicentric and with a longer follow-up period are needed to evaluate the potential impact of the Diary on exclusive breastfeeding duration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alessandra Consales
- Department of Clinical Sciences and Community Health, University of Milan, Via della Commenda 19, 20122 Milan, Italy; (A.C.); (G.P.); (M.D.); (F.M.); (M.L.G.)
| | - Lorenzo Colombo
- Fondazione IRCCS Cà Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, NICU, Via della Commenda 12, 20122 Milan, Italy; (L.C.); (L.Z.); (L.P.)
| | - Lidia Zanotta
- Fondazione IRCCS Cà Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, NICU, Via della Commenda 12, 20122 Milan, Italy; (L.C.); (L.Z.); (L.P.)
| | - Daniela Morniroli
- Department of Clinical Sciences and Community Health, University of Milan, Via della Commenda 19, 20122 Milan, Italy; (A.C.); (G.P.); (M.D.); (F.M.); (M.L.G.)
- Fondazione IRCCS Cà Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, NICU, Via della Commenda 12, 20122 Milan, Italy; (L.C.); (L.Z.); (L.P.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +39-0255032907
| | - Patrizio Sannino
- Direzione Professioni Sanitarie, Fondazione IRCCS Cà Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Via Francesco Sforza 28, 20122 Milan, Italy; (P.S.); (S.R.)
| | - Serena Rampini
- Direzione Professioni Sanitarie, Fondazione IRCCS Cà Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Via Francesco Sforza 28, 20122 Milan, Italy; (P.S.); (S.R.)
| | - Giulia Piccoli
- Department of Clinical Sciences and Community Health, University of Milan, Via della Commenda 19, 20122 Milan, Italy; (A.C.); (G.P.); (M.D.); (F.M.); (M.L.G.)
| | - Michaela Donghi
- Department of Clinical Sciences and Community Health, University of Milan, Via della Commenda 19, 20122 Milan, Italy; (A.C.); (G.P.); (M.D.); (F.M.); (M.L.G.)
| | - Paola Marchisio
- Fondazione IRCCS Cà Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Pediatric Unit, 20122 Milan, Italy;
- Department of Pathophysiology and Transplantation, University of Milan, 20122 Milan, Italy
| | - Fabio Mosca
- Department of Clinical Sciences and Community Health, University of Milan, Via della Commenda 19, 20122 Milan, Italy; (A.C.); (G.P.); (M.D.); (F.M.); (M.L.G.)
- Fondazione IRCCS Cà Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, NICU, Via della Commenda 12, 20122 Milan, Italy; (L.C.); (L.Z.); (L.P.)
| | - Laura Plevani
- Fondazione IRCCS Cà Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, NICU, Via della Commenda 12, 20122 Milan, Italy; (L.C.); (L.Z.); (L.P.)
| | - Maria Lorella Giannì
- Department of Clinical Sciences and Community Health, University of Milan, Via della Commenda 19, 20122 Milan, Italy; (A.C.); (G.P.); (M.D.); (F.M.); (M.L.G.)
- Fondazione IRCCS Cà Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, NICU, Via della Commenda 12, 20122 Milan, Italy; (L.C.); (L.Z.); (L.P.)
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Abstract
BACKGROUND The Movement Control Order (MCO), also known as the partial lockdown, was introduced in Malaysia in March 2020 to combat the COVID-19 pandemic, changing many public-sector protocols and regulations. This may have implications for neonatal and maternity care and services, especially among new mothers. OBJECTIVE To compare the postnatal experiences and feeding practices between mothers who gave birth before MCO (B-MCO) and during MCO (D-MCO). METHOD 1,051 mothers with an infant under 18 months in Malaysia completed an online survey between July 2020 and October 2020. The survey advertisement was disseminated online via various social media platforms. RESULTS More D-MCO mothers faced a significant effect on the ability to pay rent/mortgage, with their spouses facing a higher impact on employment. D-MCO mothers were more likely to have changed their birth plans, perceived insufficient breastfeeding support, and experienced changes in postnatal services since MCO. In contrast, more B-MCO mothers had stopped breastfeeding during the MCO and started complementary feeding earlier than planned. Many mothers reported feeling down, lonely, and having sleeping trouble and a poor appetite. D-MCO mothers had more time to focus on their health, whereas B-MCO mothers spent more time outdoors. DISCUSSION MCO affected mothers' livelihood and postnatal experiences, potentially causing emotional distress. Hence, improved breastfeeding support, particularly at birth, is recommended, as is routine mental health screening during the postnatal check-up. Furthermore, since online contact was readily accessible during the pandemic, the efficacy of online breastfeeding support should be evaluated.
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Wells JCK, Pomeroy E, Stock JT. Evolution of Lactase Persistence: Turbo-Charging Adaptation in Growth Under the Selective Pressure of Maternal Mortality? Front Physiol 2021; 12:696516. [PMID: 34497534 PMCID: PMC8419441 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2021.696516] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/16/2021] [Accepted: 07/30/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The emergence of the capacity to digest milk in some populations represents a landmark in human evolution, linking genetic change with a component of niche construction, namely dairying. Alleles promoting continued activity of the enzyme lactase through the life-course (lactase persistence) evolved in several global regions within the last 7,000 years. In some European regions, these alleles underwent rapid selection and must have profoundly affected fertility or mortality. Elsewhere, alleles spread more locally. However, the functional benefits underlying the rapid spread of lactase persistence remain unclear. Here, we set out the hypothesis that lactase persistence promoted skeletal growth, thereby offering a generic rapid solution to childbirth complications arising from exposure to ecological change, or to new environments through migration. Since reduced maternal growth and greater neonatal size both increase the risk of obstructed labour, any ecological exposure impacting these traits may increase maternal mortality risk. Over many generations, maternal skeletal dimensions could adapt to new ecological conditions through genetic change. However, this adaptive strategy would fail if ecological change was rapid, including through migration into new niches. We propose that the combination of consuming milk and lactase persistence could have reduced maternal mortality by promoting growth of the pelvis after weaning, while high calcium intake would reduce risk of pelvic deformities. Our conceptual framework provides locally relevant hypotheses to explain selection for lactase persistence in different global regions. For any given diet and individual genotype, the combination of lactase persistence and milk consumption would divert more energy to skeletal growth, either increasing pelvic dimensions or buffering them from worsening ecological conditions. The emergence of lactase persistence among dairying populations could have helped early European farmers adapt rapidly to northern latitudes, East African pastoralists adapt to sudden climate shifts to drier environments, and Near Eastern populations counteract secular declines in height associated with early agriculture. In each case, we assume that lactase persistence accelerated the timescale over which maternal skeletal dimensions could change, thus promoting both maternal and offspring survival. Where lactase persistence did not emerge, birth weight was constrained at lower levels, and this contributes to contemporary variability in diabetes risk.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jonathan C K Wells
- Childhood Nutrition Research Centre, Population Policy and Practice Research and Teaching Department, UCL Great Ormond Street Institute of Child Health, London, United Kingdom
| | - Emma Pomeroy
- Department of Archaeology, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, United Kingdom
| | - Jay T Stock
- Department of Anthropology, University of Western Ontario, London, ON, Canada.,Department of Archaeology, Max Planck Institute for the Science of Human History, Jena, Germany
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Nuño Martínez N, Wallenborn J, Mäusezahl D, Hartinger SM, Muela Ribera J. Socio-cultural factors for breastfeeding cessation and their relationship with child diarrhoea in the rural high-altitude Peruvian Andes - a qualitative study. Int J Equity Health 2021; 20:165. [PMID: 34271931 PMCID: PMC8283925 DOI: 10.1186/s12939-021-01505-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/23/2020] [Accepted: 07/04/2021] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Background In some areas of the world, breast milk is seen as a potential source of child diarrhoea. While this belief has been explored in African and Southeast Asian countries, it remains vastly understudied in Latin American contexts. We investigate socio-cultural factors contributing to breastfeeding cessation in rural high-altitude populations of the Peruvian Andes. The role of socio- cultural factors in the local explanatory model of child diarrhoea, and whether these perceptions were integrated in the local healthcare system were assessed. Methods Within the framework of a randomised controlled trial, we conducted semi-structured interviews with 40 mothers and 15 health personnel from local healthcare centres involved in the trial. Results Cultural beliefs on breastfeeding cessation included the perception that breast milk turned into “blood” after six months and that breastfeeding caused child diarrhoea. We identified eight local types of child diarrhoea, and women linked six of them with breastfeeding practices. “Infection” was the only diarrhoea mothers linked to hygiene and the germ disease concept and perceived as treatable through drug therapy. Women believed that other types of diarrhoea could not be treated within the formal healthcare sector. Interviews with health personnel revealed no protocol for, or consensus about, the integration of the local explanatory model of child diarrhoea in local healthcare and service provision. Conclusions The local explanatory model in rural Andean Peru connected breastfeeding with child diarrhoeas. Cultural beliefs regarding diarrhoea management may increase home treatments, even in cases of severe diarrhoeal episodes. Future national breastfeeding support programmes should promote peer-counselling approaches to reduce negative attitudes towards breastfeeding and health practitioners. Local explanatory models should be incorporated into provincial and regional strategies for child diarrhoea management to promote equity in health and improve provider-patient relationships.
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Affiliation(s)
- Néstor Nuño Martínez
- Department of Public Health and Epidemiology, Swiss Tropical and Public Health Institute, P.O. Box CH-4002, Socinstrasse 57, Basel, Switzerland.,University of Basel, P.O. Box CH-4001, Petersplatz 1, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Jordyn Wallenborn
- Department of Public Health and Epidemiology, Swiss Tropical and Public Health Institute, P.O. Box CH-4002, Socinstrasse 57, Basel, Switzerland.,University of Basel, P.O. Box CH-4001, Petersplatz 1, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Daniel Mäusezahl
- Department of Public Health and Epidemiology, Swiss Tropical and Public Health Institute, P.O. Box CH-4002, Socinstrasse 57, Basel, Switzerland. .,University of Basel, P.O. Box CH-4001, Petersplatz 1, Basel, Switzerland.
| | - Stella M Hartinger
- Department of Public Health and Epidemiology, Swiss Tropical and Public Health Institute, P.O. Box CH-4002, Socinstrasse 57, Basel, Switzerland.,University of Basel, P.O. Box CH-4001, Petersplatz 1, Basel, Switzerland.,Universidad Peruana Cayetano Heredia, Av. Honorio Delgado 430, urb. Ingeniería, S.M.P, Lima, Peru
| | - Joan Muela Ribera
- Partners for Applied Social Sciences (Pass-International), Baal 58, Tessenderlo, 3980, Belgium.,Universitat Rovira i Virgili, Avinguda Catalunya 35, Tarragona, 43005, Spain
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Mohd Shukri NH, Wells J, Fewtrell M. Differences in maternal characteristics and their associations with breastfeeding attitudes among primiparous mothers. Midwifery 2021; 95:102931. [PMID: 33540157 DOI: 10.1016/j.midw.2021.102931] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2020] [Revised: 10/26/2020] [Accepted: 01/15/2021] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The benefits of breastfeeding are well documented, yet substantially below half of all mothers globally meet the recommendation to exclusively breast-feed for 6 months. OBJECTIVE This study aimed to examine whether there were differences in maternal factors, including maternal characteristics and breastfeeding attitudes, between those who were eligible versus non-eligible to be included in a randomised trial, as exclusive breastfeeding was the eligibility criteria for the trial. It also aimed to investigate associations between maternal factors and breastfeeding attitudes. METHOD Primiparous pregnant mothers (n=88) completed questionnaires on demographic factors including maternity care and breastfeeding attitude using self-administered questionnaire and Iowa Infant Feeding Attitude Scale (IIFAS). Two weeks post-birth, mothers were screened for eligibility to be included in a randomised trial including assessing for exclusive breastfeeding (EBF). Findings were compared between inclusion (all EBF mothers) and exclusion groups (non-EBF). RESULTS Inclusion group mothers were significantly younger than those in the exclusion group (26.7±2.8 v 28.5±2.5, p=0.007) and the majority had their husband as the primary maternity care person after birth (X2=12.8, p=0.01). Inclusion group mothers had a more positive perception toward breastfeeding in public and at work on the IIFAS scale (p<0.05). The overall IIFAS score was positively associated with higher breastfeeding confidence (r=0.285, p=0.008), education levels (r=0.31, p=0.003), household income (r=0.32, p=0.003), and age (r=0.28, p=0.008). CONCLUSION EBF mothers (inclusion group) tend to be younger, had husband as primary care, and have more positive perception towards breastfeeding outside home. Overall, maternal characteristics and paternal support could influence breastfeeding practices and should be targeted for future intervention. Maternal attitude and perceptions about breastfeeding in public could be improved to encourage exclusive breastfeeding.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nurul Husna Mohd Shukri
- Faculty of Medicine & Health Sciences, Universiti Putra Malaysia, Malaysia; UCL Great Ormond Street Institute of Child Health, University College London, UK.
| | - Jonathan Wells
- UCL Great Ormond Street Institute of Child Health, University College London, UK
| | - Mary Fewtrell
- UCL Great Ormond Street Institute of Child Health, University College London, UK
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29
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Quinn EA. Centering human milk composition as normal human biological variation. Am J Hum Biol 2021; 33:e23564. [DOI: 10.1002/ajhb.23564] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/29/2020] [Revised: 11/25/2020] [Accepted: 12/23/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Elizabeth A. Quinn
- Department of Anthropology Washington University in St. Louis Saint Louis Missouri USA
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30
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Vazquez-Vazquez A, Dib S, Rougeaux E, Wells JC, Fewtrell MS. The impact of the Covid-19 lockdown on the experiences and feeding practices of new mothers in the UK: Preliminary data from the COVID-19 New Mum Study. Appetite 2021; 156:104985. [PMID: 33038477 PMCID: PMC7538871 DOI: 10.1016/j.appet.2020.104985] [Citation(s) in RCA: 93] [Impact Index Per Article: 31.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2020] [Revised: 09/02/2020] [Accepted: 09/30/2020] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The COVID-19 New Mum Study is recording maternal experiences and infant feeding during the UK lockdown. This report from week 1 of the survey describes and compares the delivery and post-natal experiences of women who delivered before (BL) versus during (DL) the lockdown. METHODS Women living in the UK aged ≥18 years with an infant ≤12 months of age completed an anonymous online survey (https://is.gd/covid19newmumstudy). Information/links are shared via websites, social media and existing contacts. RESULTS From 27.5.20-3.6.20, 1365 women provided data (94% white, 95% married/with partner, 66% degree/higher qualification, 86% living in house; 1049 (77%) delivered BL and 316 (23%) DL. Delivery mode, skin-to-skin contact and breastfeeding initiation did not differ between groups. DL women had shorter hospital stays (p < 0.001). 39% reported changes to their birth plan. Reflecting younger infant age, 59% of DL infants were exclusively breast-fed/mixed fed versus 39% of BL (p < 0.05). 13% reported a change in feeding; often related to lack of breastfeeding support, especially with practical problems. Important sources of feeding support were the partner (60%), health professional (50%) and online groups (47%). 45% of DL women reported insufficient feeding support. Among BL women, 57% and 69% reported decreased feeding support and childcare, respectively. 40% BL/45% DL women reported insufficient support with their own health, 8%/9% contacted a mental health professional; 11% reported their mental health was affected. 9% highlighted lack of contact/support from family and distress that they had missed seeing the baby. CONCLUSION Lockdown has impacted maternal experiences, resulting in distress for many women. Our findings suggest the need for better infant feeding support, especially 'face-to-face' support for practical issues; and recognising and supporting mothers who are struggling with mental health challenges or other aspects of their health. The effectiveness of online versus face-to-face contact is currently uncertain, and requires further evaluation.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Vazquez-Vazquez
- Childhood Nutrition Research Group, Population, Policy & Practice Research and Teaching Department, UCL Great Ormond Street Institute of Child Health, London, WC1N 1EH, UK.
| | - S Dib
- Childhood Nutrition Research Group, Population, Policy & Practice Research and Teaching Department, UCL Great Ormond Street Institute of Child Health, London, WC1N 1EH, UK.
| | - E Rougeaux
- Childhood Nutrition Research Group, Population, Policy & Practice Research and Teaching Department, UCL Great Ormond Street Institute of Child Health, London, WC1N 1EH, UK.
| | - J C Wells
- Childhood Nutrition Research Group, Population, Policy & Practice Research and Teaching Department, UCL Great Ormond Street Institute of Child Health, London, WC1N 1EH, UK.
| | - M S Fewtrell
- Childhood Nutrition Research Group, Population, Policy & Practice Research and Teaching Department, UCL Great Ormond Street Institute of Child Health, London, WC1N 1EH, UK.
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Maternal mental health and well-being during the COVID-19 pandemic in Beijing, China. World J Pediatr 2021; 17:280-289. [PMID: 34170504 PMCID: PMC8231088 DOI: 10.1007/s12519-021-00439-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/25/2021] [Accepted: 06/14/2021] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The aim of this study is to evaluate the impact of the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic on breastfeeding women and to identify predictors of maternal mental health and coping. METHODS Mothers aged ≥ 18 years with a breast-fed infant ≤ 18 months of age during the COVID-19 pandemic in Beijing, China, completed a questionnaire. Descriptive analysis of lockdown consequences was performed and predictors of these outcomes were examined using stepwise linear regression. RESULTS Of 2233 participants, 29.9%, 20.0% and 34.7% felt down, lonely, and worried, respectively, during the lockdown; however, 85.3% felt able to cope. Poorer maternal mental health was predicted by maternal (younger age, higher education) and infant (older age, lower gestation) characteristics, and social circumstances (husband unemployed or working from home, receiving advice from family, having enough space for the baby, living close to a park or green space). Conversely, better maternal mental health was predicted by higher income, employment requiring higher qualifications, more personal space at home, shopping or walking > once/week and lack of impact of COVID-19 on job or income. Mothers with higher education, more bedrooms, fair division of household chores and attending an online mother and baby group > once/week reported better coping. CONCLUSION The findings highlight maternal characteristics and circumstances that predict poorer mental health and reduced coping which could be used to target interventions in any future public health emergencies requiring social restrictions.
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Does Caesarean Section or Preterm Delivery Influence TGF-β2 Concentrations in Human Colostrum? Nutrients 2020; 12:nu12041095. [PMID: 32326558 PMCID: PMC7230194 DOI: 10.3390/nu12041095] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/03/2020] [Revised: 04/13/2020] [Accepted: 04/13/2020] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Human colostrum (HC) is a rich source of immune mediators that play a role in immune defences of a newly born infant. The mediators include transforming growth factor β (TGF-β) which exists in three isoforms that regulate cellular homeostasis and inflammation, can induce or suppress immune responses, limit T helper 1 cells (Th1) reactions and stimulate secretory immunoglobulin A (IgA) production. Human milk TGF-β also decreases apoptosis of intestinal cells and suppresses macrophage cytokine expression. The aim of the study was to determine the concentration of TGF-β2 in HC obtained from the mothers who delivered vaginally (VD) or by caesarean section (CS), and to compare the concentrations in HC from mothers who delivered at term (TB) or preterm (PB). In this study, 56% of preterm pregnancies were delivered via CS. The concentrations of TGF-β2 were measured in HC from 299 women who delivered in the 1st Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Medical University of Warsaw: 192 (VD), 107 (CS), 251 (TB), and 48 (PB). The colostrum samples were collected within 5 days post-partum. TGF-β2 levels in HC were measured by the enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) test with the Quantikine ELISA Kit-Human TGF-β2 (cat.no. SB250). Statistical significance between groups was calculated by the Student t-test using StatSoft Statistica 13 software. The mean TGF-β2 concentration in patients who delivered at term or preterm were comparable. The levels of TGF-β2 in HC were higher after preterm than term being 4648 vs. 3899 ng/mL (p = 0.1244). The delivery via CS was associated with higher HC concentrations of TGF-β2. The levels of TGF-β2 were significantly higher in HC after CS than VD (7429 vs. 5240 ng/mL; p = 0.0017). The data from this study suggest: caesarean section was associated with increased levels of TGF-β2 in HC. The increased levels of TGF-β2 in HC of women who delivered prematurely require further research. Early and exclusive breast-feeding by mothers after caesarean section and premature births with colostrum containing high TGF-β2 levels may prevent the negative impact of pathogens which often colonize the gastrointestinal tract and may reduce the risk of chronic diseases in this group of patients.
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