Low breast milk levels of long-chain n-3 fatty acids in allergic women, despite frequent fish intake
2011

Breast Milk Fatty Acids in Allergic Women

Sample size: 45 publication 10 minutes Evidence: moderate

Author Information

Author(s): Sara Johansson, A E Wold, A-S Sandberg

Primary Institution: Chalmers University of Technology

Hypothesis

The composition of long-chain n-3 fatty acids in serum and breast milk may vary according to clinical manifestations of allergic disease.

Conclusion

Women with extensive allergic disease, including eczema, have reduced levels of long-chain n-3 fatty acids in serum and breast milk, which are not related to low fish intake.

Supporting Evidence

  • Women with eczema and respiratory allergy had lower breast milk levels of several PUFAs.
  • Despite similar fish intake, allergic women had lower serum levels of EPA, DHA, and DPA.
  • High dietary intake of fatty fish was associated with the respiratory allergy only group.

Takeaway

Moms with allergies have less of certain healthy fats in their milk, even though they eat enough fish.

Methodology

Fatty acids were analyzed in breast milk and serum of women with different allergic conditions using multivariate pattern recognition methods.

Potential Biases

Self-reported dietary intake may introduce bias.

Limitations

Small sample sizes and potential confounding dietary factors.

Participant Demographics

Women aged around 30-32 years, including those with atopic eczema, respiratory allergy, and healthy controls.

Statistical Information

P-Value

0.03

Statistical Significance

p<0.05

Digital Object Identifier (DOI)

10.1111/j.1365-2222.2010.03678.x

Want to read the original?

Access the complete publication on the publisher's website

View Original Publication