Breastfeeding and intelligence: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Bernardo L Horta1, Christian Loret de Mola1, Cesar G Victora1
1Postgraduate Program in Epidemiology, Universidade Federal de Pelotas, Pelotas, Brazil.
Acta Paediatrica (Oslo, Norway : 1992)
|July 28, 2015
Summary
Breastfeeding is associated with higher intelligence test scores, showing an average IQ increase of 3.44 points. This suggests a causal link between breastfeeding and cognitive development.
Area of Science:
- Pediatrics
- Developmental Psychology
- Cognitive Science
Background:
- The relationship between breastfeeding and cognitive development is a significant area of research.
- Previous studies have suggested a positive association, but systematic reviews are needed to consolidate evidence.
Purpose of the Study:
- To systematically review and synthesize evidence on the association between breastfeeding and intelligence test performance.
- To quantify the effect of breastfeeding on IQ scores and explore potential moderators of this relationship.
Main Methods:
- A systematic literature search was conducted across multiple databases (Medline, LILACS, SCIELO, Web of Science).
- Meta-analysis using fixed- and random-effects models was employed to pool effect estimates.
- Random-effects regression was used to investigate sources of heterogeneity among studies.
Main Results:
- Seventeen studies comprising 18 estimates were included in the meta-analysis.
- Breastfed individuals demonstrated higher IQ scores, with a mean difference of 3.44 points (95% CI: 2.30; 4.58).
- Studies controlling for maternal IQ reported a smaller, yet significant, benefit of breastfeeding (mean difference: 2.62 points).
Conclusions:
- Breastfeeding is significantly associated with improved performance on intelligence tests.
- Evidence from a randomized trial supports a causal relationship between breastfeeding and enhanced cognition.
- The findings underscore the long-term cognitive benefits of breastfeeding.
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