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Iron and copper in human milk.

¹Department of Nutrition, University of Brazil, Brasilia, Brazil.

Nutrition (Burbank, Los Angeles County, Calif.)

|March 8, 2000

Summary

Breast milk iron and copper levels vary widely but generally decrease during lactation. Supplementation is not supported for healthy infants, as breast milk provides adequate amounts for the first six months.

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Area of Science:

Nutritional Science
Biochemistry

Background:

Breast milk is a primary nutrient source for infants.
Iron and copper are essential trace elements with varying concentrations in human milk.

Purpose of the Study:

To analyze the variability and influencing factors of iron and copper concentrations in breast milk.
To assess the necessity of iron and copper supplementation for breastfed infants.

Main Methods:

Literature review of studies over the past 50 years.
Analysis of reported median values and iron-to-copper ratios.
Evaluation of maternal and environmental factors affecting metal concentrations.

Main Results:

Median iron and copper concentrations reported as 0.47 and 0.32 mg/L, respectively.
Metal levels decrease as lactation progresses.
Maternal and environmental factors showed no consistent effect on milk metal concentrations.

Conclusions:

No clinical evidence supports additional iron or copper supplementation for healthy, full-term breastfed infants in the first six months.
Breast milk provides sufficient iron and copper for infant needs during this period.

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