A chemist explains how some molecules in human breast milk help fight infection. Understanding their properties could lead to better infant formulas that share the health advantages of breastfeeding.
Our study found babies born via medical or surgical intervention were at increased risk of health problems, from jaundice and feeding issues, to diabetes, respiratory infections and eczema.
Domperidone raises levels of prolactin, which increases the production of breast milk. It’s safe for mothers and babies, but not all women will experience the same increase in milk volume.
The message given to new parents is the higher the infant weight gain the better. Yet being a big baby and growing fast is a risk factor for childhood obesity.
From the moment their baby is born, Australian parents receive conflicting advice on how to cope with newborn issues. What we are doing wastes our resources, but we’re not investing in alternatives.
Human milk banks play an important role in ensuring the safe supply of breast milk. This is made available to babies whose mothers are unable to breastfeed.
South African health authorities educate the public about breastfeeding but without supportive legislation and strong communication, it will never be normalised.
In an era when opinion often trumps evidence in public health issues, it’s time to support and invest in evidence-based medicine to protect the public from dangerous, poorly informed beliefs.
The potential for exploitation is rife in the international market for breast milk. Fair trade and fair pay regulations are crucial to protect consumers in Australia and suppliers abroad.
Research officer, Department of Health Economics, Wellbeing and Society, National Centre for Epidemiology and Population Health, Australian National University