Free Fatty Acids in Breast Milk
Author Information
Author(s): Kokotou Maroula G.
Primary Institution: Agricultural University of Athens
Hypothesis
The study aims to develop a method for detecting and quantifying free fatty acids in breast milk and to explore variations in their content over consecutive days.
Conclusion
The study successfully identified and quantified 25 free fatty acids in breast milk, highlighting significant variations in their concentrations over five consecutive days.
Supporting Evidence
- The most abundant free fatty acid in breast milk was found to be C12:0 (18.3%).
- Remarkable variations of free fatty acid contents were observed for C8:0, C10:0, C12:0, C18:1 n-9, and C18:2 n-6.
- Hydroxypalmitic and hydroxystearic acids were detected in breast milk for the first time.
Takeaway
This study found that breast milk contains important fatty acids that change a lot from day to day, which can help babies grow and stay healthy.
Methodology
A fast and simple LC-HRMS method was developed for the detection and quantification of 37 free fatty acids in breast milk samples without derivatization.
Limitations
The study was limited to samples from a single mother, which may not represent broader populations.
Participant Demographics
One healthy mother, 36 years old, who provided informed consent.
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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