Is Arsenic “Lactation Intolerant”?: Study Indicates Low Excretion in Breast Milk
2008
Arsenic in Breast Milk and Its Impact on Infants
Sample size: 98
publication
Evidence: moderate
Author Information
Author(s): Tanya Tillett
Primary Institution: National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences
Hypothesis
Does exclusive breastfeeding protect infants from arsenic exposure despite high maternal arsenic levels?
Conclusion
Exclusive breastfeeding appears to protect infants from arsenic exposure during critical development.
Supporting Evidence
- Infants who were exclusively breastfed had significantly lower arsenic concentrations in urine.
- Arsenic concentrations in breast milk were low despite high maternal exposures.
- Breastfeeding exclusively can protect infants from arsenic exposure during critical development.
Takeaway
Breastfeeding helps keep babies safe from arsenic, even if their moms have a lot of it in their bodies.
Methodology
The study evaluated arsenic exposure through urine and breast milk samples from mothers and their infants.
Limitations
The study does not determine how much breastfeeding reduces health risks from prenatal arsenic exposure.
Participant Demographics
98 mothers and their 3-month-old infants from Bangladesh.
Statistical Information
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Want to read the original?
Access the complete publication on the publisher's website