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[A review on the relationship between breast milk nutrients and brain development in preterm infants]

Jing-Jun Pei1, Jun Tang

  • 1Department of Pediatrics, West China Second University Hospital, Sichuan University/Key Laboratory of Birth Defects and Related Diseases of Women and Children (Sichuan University), Ministry of Education, Chengdu 610041, China. tj1234753@sina.com.

Zhongguo Dang Dai Er Ke Za Zhi = Chinese Journal of Contemporary Pediatrics
|June 19, 2019
PubMed

Insights

Breast milk is crucial for preterm infant brain development. Key nutrients like oligosaccharides, polyunsaturated fatty acids, and lactoferrin support long-term cognitive outcomes from infancy through adulthood.

Area of Science:

  • Neonatal Nutrition
  • Neuroscience
  • Developmental Pediatrics

Background:

  • Breast milk is the optimal nutrition for preterm infants.
  • The impact of breast milk on brain development is increasingly recognized.
  • These effects can extend throughout an individual's lifespan.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To review current research on breast milk nutrients and preterm infant brain development.
  • To explain the function of specific nutrients in supporting neurodevelopment.
  • To highlight the long-term cognitive benefits of breastfeeding for preterm infants.

Main Methods:

  • Literature review of recent scientific studies.
  • Analysis of the role of specific breast milk components.
  • Synthesis of findings on neurodevelopmental and cognitive outcomes.

Main Results:

  • Specific nutrients in breast milk, including oligosaccharides, polyunsaturated fatty acids, and lactoferrin, are vital for brain development.
  • Breastfeeding's influence on neurodevelopment shows lasting effects.
  • These effects are evident in cognitive functions across different life stages.

Conclusions:

  • Breast milk nutrients are essential for optimal brain development in preterm infants.
  • Early nutrition significantly influences long-term cognitive health.
  • Further research into these nutrients can inform clinical practice and improve outcomes.

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