Evaluating the relationship between the nutrient intake of lactating women and their breast milk nutritional profile: a systematic review and narrative synthesis

source extracted confidence: high 2026-04-09
#humans #female #milk-human #lactation #vitamins

Evaluating the relationship between the nutrient intake of lactating women and their breast milk nutritional profile: a systematic review and narrative synthesis

Falize et al., 2024 | Br J Nutr | Systematic Review

Citation

Falize Coralie, Savage M, ... Dyall Simon C. Evaluating the relationship between the nutrient intake of lactating women and their breast milk nutritional profile: a systematic review and narrative synthesis. Br J Nutr. 2024-Apr-14;131(7):1196-1224. doi:10.1017/S0007114523002775

Abstract

Maternal diet influences breast milk nutritional profile; however, it is unclear which nutrients and contaminants are particularly responsive to short- and long-term changes in maternal intake, and the impact of specific exclusion diets, such as vegan or vegetarian. This study systematically reviewed the literature on the effects of maternal nutrient intake, including exclusion diets, on both the nutrient and contaminant content of breast milk. The electronic databases, PubMed, CENTRAL, Web of Science and CINALH were systematically searched until 4 June 2023, with additionally searches of reference lists (PROSPERO, CRD42020221577). The quality of the studies was examined using Cochrane Risk of Bias tool and Newcastle-Ottawa scale. Eighty-eight studies (n 6577) met the search criteria. Due to high heterogeneity, meta-analysis was not possible. There was strong evidence of response to maternal intakes for DHA and EPA, vitamins A, E and K, iodine and Se in breast milk composition, some evidence of response for α-linolenic acid, B vitamins, vitamin C and D, ovalbumin, tyrosine and contaminants, and insufficient evidence to identify the effects arachidonic acid, Cu, Fe, Zn and choline. The paucity of evidence and high heterogeneity among studies reflects the need for more high-quality trials. However, this review identified the importance of maternal intake in the nutritional content of breast milk for a wide range of nutrients and supports the recommendation for supplementation of DHA and vitamin B12 for those on restrictive diets.

Key Findings

However, this review identified the importance of maternal intake in the nutritional content of breast milk for a wide range of nutrients and supports the recommendation for supplementation of DHA and vitamin B12 for those on restrictive diets.

Outcomes Measured

  • Requires manual extraction

Population

Field Value
Population See abstract
Sample Size See abstract
Age Range See abstract
Condition See abstract

MeSH Terms

  • Humans
  • Female
  • Milk, Human
  • Lactation
  • Vitamins
  • Diet
  • Eating

Evidence Classification

  • Level: Systematic Review
  • Publication Types: Systematic Review, Journal Article
  • Vertical: vitamin-b12

Provenance

Source extracted via PubMed E-utilities API on 2026-04-09