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[Breast feeding and intelligence].

Erik Lykke Mortensen1, Kim Fleischer Michaelsen, Stephanie A Sanders

  • 1Afdeling for Sundhedspsykologi, Institut for Folkesundhedsvidenskab, Københavns Universitet, Blegdamsvej 3, DK-2200 København N. e.l.mortensen@pubhealth.ku.dk

Ugeskrift for Laeger
|April 22, 2003
PubMed
Summary

Longer breastfeeding duration is linked to higher adult intelligence scores. This study found a dose-response relationship, suggesting breast milk nutrients may positively impact cognitive development long-term.

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Area of Science:

  • Pediatric Health
  • Neuroscience
  • Human Development

Context:

  • Previous research suggests a link between breastfeeding and childhood intelligence.
  • The association between breastfeeding duration and adult intelligence remains underexplored.

Purpose:

  • To investigate the relationship between the duration of breastfeeding and intelligence in young adulthood.
  • To determine if breastfeeding has a long-term impact on cognitive abilities.

Summary:

  • A prospective longitudinal study assessed 973 individuals (mean age 27.2) using the WAIS and 2280 males (mean age 18.7) using the BPP.
  • Higher intelligence scores (WAIS and BPP) were associated with longer breastfeeding durations, even after adjusting for 13 potential confounders.
  • A dose-response relationship was observed, particularly for breastfeeding up to nine months, indicating long-term cognitive benefits.

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Impact:

  • Findings suggest that nutrients in breast milk may contribute to enhanced cognitive and intellectual development into adulthood.
  • This research provides evidence for the lasting benefits of breastfeeding on intelligence.
  • Highlights the importance of promoting breastfeeding for long-term cognitive outcomes.