The Refractive Index of Human Milk Serum and Its Relation to Macronutrient Concentrations
Author Information
Author(s): de Wolf Johanna R., Ali Kawthar, Legtenberg Chris G., Verveld Wietske, Bosschaart Nienke
Primary Institution: University of Twente
Hypothesis
The refractive index of human milk serum depends on the concentrations of macronutrients present in the serum.
Conclusion
The refractive index of human milk serum is primarily influenced by whey protein and solids-not-fat concentrations.
Supporting Evidence
- The refractive index of human milk serum was measured to be 1.3470 on average.
- Significant correlations were found between the refractive index and protein concentration (R = 0.75, p = 0.00025).
- The refractive index was not significantly influenced by mineral concentrations.
Takeaway
This study found that the way light bends in human milk depends a lot on how much protein is in it, which helps us understand its composition better.
Methodology
The study measured the refractive index of serum simulating samples and human milk samples from 19 donors, analyzing the relationship between refractive index and macronutrient concentrations.
Limitations
The study did not evaluate the influence of all serum constituents, such as IgA and oligosaccharides, on the refractive index.
Participant Demographics
Nineteen breastfeeding volunteers aged between 27 and 39 years with a lactation period between 1 and 9 months.
Statistical Information
P-Value
p<0.05
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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