GOLD Learning Speakers

Many of us are aware of human milk’s amazing ability to provide for our infants’ changing nutritional needs with age. Recent research suggests that its composition shifts in synch with mom’s circadian rhythms as well, giving breastfed babies a leg up in neurological development, chrononutrition and sleep patterns. This presentation discusses the diurnal cycles of the following breast milk components: wakefulness vs. sleep-inducing amino acids, hormones (such as melatonin), trace elements, and even some nucleotides. Clinical implications include improving use of pumped breast milk. The presentation concludes with a brief look at other factors related to breastfeeding and infant sleep, including SIDS rates, skin-to-skin, and room sharing.

Recently, much scientific inquiry has turned to the new frontier of the “microbiome", the many microscopic beings living commensally or symbiotically in and upon the human body. Breast milk’s contribution to the development and sustenance of healthy gut bacteria is immense, in that it not only provides bacteria for the initial seeding, but also contains an ideal nutrient base designed to promote beneficial flora while simultaneously discouraging pathogens. This presentation will explore the relevant theories and understanding of these processes. We will delve into the long-term health outcomes associated with the microbiome, including obesity, diabetes, brown-to-white fat ratio, gastrointestinal concerns, and allergies. This presentation will also explore the impact of breast milk storage and pasteurization techniques on its microbiologic activity. Additionally, we will look at other aspects of the microbiome as they relate to skin-to-skin contact, vaginal birth and breastfeeding. Finally, we will describe bacterial roles in infant neurological development, allergies, digestion, immunity, and future obesity. Healthcare practitioners need to be aware of the benefits of microbial diversity in order to effectively counsel new parents, especially those with infants at risk for immunological or digestive concerns.