Purkiewicz Aleksandra, Regin Kamila J, Mumtaz Wajeeha, Pietrzak-Fiećko Renata
Department of Commodity Science and Food Analysis, Faculty of Food Science, University of Warmia and Mazury in Olsztyn, 10-719 Olsztyn, Poland.
Department of Rehabilitation and Orthopedics, School of Medicine, Collegium Medicum, University of Warmia and Mazury in Olsztyn, 10-726 Olsztyn, Poland.
Nutrients. 2025 Apr 11;17(8):1326. doi: 10.3390/nu17081326.
Breastfeeding is recognized as the gold standard in infant nutrition, providing necessary nutrients for optimal growth and development. Beyond its nutritional function, breastfeeding has numerous benefits for both mother and child. This literature review examines the effects of breastfeeding on the development of the nervous and immune systems, its influence on cognitive development, and the impact of stress on lactation. In addition, it explores the emotional effects of breastfeeding on mothers, the challenges associated with exclusive breastfeeding, and the process of weaning along with its implications for both mother and infant. It is indicated that stress significantly affects lactation regulation, with elevated cortisol levels potentially disrupting hormonal balance. Furthermore, the essential roles of oxytocin, sialic acid, and docosahexaenoic acid in infant brain development and cognitive functions are highlighted. Breastfeeding is associated with the regulation of the baby's sleep through the effects of tryptophan, serotonin, and melatonin, which at the same time provide the baby with a sense of security with the mother. It is indicated that women who breastfeed are less likely to suffer from mental health problems and are at a lower risk of hypertension, diabetes, and cardiovascular disease. The weaning process is often a difficult time for mother and child; thus, it should be introduced gradually to minimize stress, anxiety, and potential mood disturbances in the mother.
母乳喂养被公认为婴儿营养的黄金标准，为最佳生长发育提供必要营养。除了其营养功能外，母乳喂养对母婴双方都有诸多益处。这篇文献综述探讨了母乳喂养对神经和免疫系统发育的影响、对认知发展的影响以及压力对泌乳的影响。此外，还探讨了母乳喂养对母亲的情感影响、纯母乳喂养相关的挑战、断奶过程及其对母婴双方的影响。研究表明，压力会显著影响泌乳调节，皮质醇水平升高可能会破坏激素平衡。此外，还强调了催产素、唾液酸和二十二碳六烯酸在婴儿大脑发育和认知功能中的重要作用。母乳喂养通过色氨酸、血清素和褪黑素的作用与婴儿睡眠调节相关，同时为婴儿提供与母亲在一起的安全感。研究表明，进行母乳喂养的女性患心理健康问题的可能性较小，患高血压、糖尿病和心血管疾病的风险也较低。断奶过程对母婴来说通常是一段艰难的时期；因此，应该逐步引入断奶，以尽量减少母亲的压力、焦虑和潜在的情绪困扰。
