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Human breast milk: A review on its composition and bioactivity
Nicholas J Andreas1, Beate Kampmann2, Kirsty Mehring Le-Doare3
1Centre for International Child Health, Department of Paediatrics, Imperial College London, St. Mary's Hospital, Praed Street, London, W2 1NY UK.
Early Human Development
|September 17, 2015
Summary
Breast milk provides optimal infant nutrition, evolving to meet changing needs. Its bioactive components, like human milk oligosaccharides, shape infant immunity and gut microbes.
Area of Science:
- Human biology
- Infant nutrition
- Immunology
Background:
- Breast milk is uniquely adapted to infant nutritional and developmental needs.
- It contains complex nutrients, lipids, carbohydrates, and bioactive molecules.
- These components play crucial roles in infant immune system and gut microbiota development.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the composition of breast milk.
- To discuss factors influencing breast milk composition during lactation.
- To highlight the importance of understanding breast milk components for clinical practice and infant health.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of breast milk composition and function.
- Analysis of factors affecting breast milk composition over time.
- Synthesis of current knowledge on bioactive components and their roles.
Main Results:
- Breast milk composition dynamically changes to meet infant requirements.
- Human milk oligosaccharides are key in orchestrating infant microbiota development, influenced by maternal genetics.
- Biologically active components guide immune system maturation and gut microbial colonization.
Conclusions:
- Understanding breast milk composition is vital for improving infant feeding practices.
- Knowledge of breast milk's role in immunity and microbiota development can enhance infant health outcomes.
- Further research can refine clinical applications and infant care strategies.
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