Is Breast is Best Still True for Moms with a Metabolic Disease?
Unpacking the Impact on Breastmilk and Baby's Health
Following on from a previous post on metabolic health and breastmilk. We’ve all heard the phrase “breast is best,” but what happens when a mother has a metabolic disease? Maybe you have hypertension…or Gestational Diabetes and are curious about the impact on lactation. Can your breastmilk still provide the best nutrition for your baby? This is a crucial question that many expectant and new mothers face, and today, we’re going to dig into the science and considerations about this important topic.
The Impact of Metabolic Disease on Breastmilk
Metabolic diseases, such as diabetes, obesity, thyroid disorders and cardiovascular issues (high blood pressure) can influence various aspects of maternal health and, consequently, the quality of breastmilk. As a midwife I don’t think I learned anything about the impact of metabolism on breastfeeding. If you had PCOS/endometriosis before becoming pregnant it’s likely have dysfunctional mitochondria (a sign of metabolic disease). A common sign that there may be a metabolic issue includes a delay in the ‘volume’ of milk which usually begins around day 3 with frequent nursing. Those moms may experience a slight delay in that volume being produced so be sure to get support early on - ideally talk to an IBCLC during your pregnancy.
But consider the domino effect of intervention if you have a metabolic disease. If you have one of the conditions listed above you’re more likely to be considered ‘high risk’ which can significantly change your birth experience. Induction is more likely which increases your risk of having an unplanned cesarean, which then impacts whether you will breastfeed and for how long. (A cesarean can also impacts baby’s metabolic health due to the lack of access to mom’s vaginal microbes - however exclusive breastfeeding can positively impact your baby’s short and long term health).
Here’s how:
Nutrient Composition: Metabolic disorders can affect the levels of essential nutrients in breastmilk, such as fatty acids, vitamins, and minerals, which are critical for your baby’s growth and development.
Immune Factors: These conditions can also impact the production of immune-boosting components in breastmilk, potentially affecting your baby’s ability to fight infections.
Hormonal Imbalances: Hormonal fluctuations associated with metabolic diseases can alter milk production and its composition, which may influence the overall quality of nutrition provided to the baby.
Is Breastfeeding Still the Best Choice?
Despite these potential impacts, breastfeeding remains the optimal food for babies born to moms with metabolic diseases. Here’s why:
Unique Immune Protection: Breastmilk contains antibodies and other immune factors that formula simply cannot replicate. This protection is vital, especially in the early months of life.
Bonding Benefits: Breastfeeding promotes a strong emotional bond between mother and baby, which can have lasting positive effects on both.
Tailored Nutrition: Even with metabolic disease, breastmilk is uniquely tailored to your baby’s needs, adapting over time to provide optimal nutrition and protection.
Benefits of Breastfeeding on Mom's Metabolism and Health
Breastfeeding not only benefits your baby but also has significant advantages for your own health, particularly concerning metabolism and reducing risk factors for certain diseases:
Improved Metabolism: Breastfeeding helps burn extra calories, which can assist in postpartum weight loss and improve metabolic health. It can help regulate glucose levels, which is particularly beneficial for mothers with gestational diabetes.
Reduced Risk of Type 2 Diabetes: Studies have shown that breastfeeding can lower the risk of developing Type 2 diabetes by improving insulin sensitivity and glucose metabolism.
Lower Risk of Certain Cancers: Breastfeeding has been associated with a reduced risk of breast and ovarian cancers. The longer you breastfeed, the greater the protective effects.
Cardiovascular Benefits: Breastfeeding has been linked to lower blood pressure and reduced risk of heart disease later in life.
Optimizing Breastmilk Quality
If you have a metabolic disease and are concerned about the quality of your breastmilk, here are some steps you can take:
Nutrient-Rich Diet: Focus on a balanced diet rich in essential nutrients. Include plenty of fruits, vegetables, proteins, and healthy fats. Foods high in omega-3 fatty acids, like salmon and flaxseeds, are particularly beneficial.
Regular Monitoring: Work closely with your healthcare provider to monitor your metabolic condition and manage it effectively through medication, if necessary.
Red Light Therapy: Consider incorporating red light therapy during your pregnancy and postpartum to enhance cellular function and reduce inflammation.
Stress Management: Practice stress-reducing techniques such as mindfulness, hypnobirthing and yoga. High stress levels can negatively impact milk production and composition.
Exercise and Sleep: Engage in regular physical activity and prioritize quality sleep to maintain overall health and well-being, which in turn supports healthy lactation. (Safe bedsharing is an option to optimize sleep). Lower your expectations for high intensity exercise - be gentle, start with walking after means to manage insulin levels.
The phrase “breast is best” remains largely true, even for mothers with metabolic diseases. While these conditions can impact breastmilk, the unique benefits of breastfeeding often outweigh the potential drawbacks. By taking steps to optimize your health and manage your condition, you can provide the best possible nutrition for your baby and reap significant health benefits for yourself.
Tracy
