Breast Milk Fatty Acids in Allergic Women
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)
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