Calcium intakes and bone densities of lactating women and breast-fed infants in The Gambia.

The calcium required for breast-milk production and infant growth can be a substantial proportion of dietary intakes especially in regions of the world were calcium consumption is low. Insufficient calcium supply might lead to maternal bone loss, reduced breast-milk calcium secretion and impaired infant bone growth. However, changes in calcium absorption and excretion may be sufficient to allow these requirements to be met without affecting maternal or infant health. A limited number of studies have investigated changes in maternal bone mineral, absorption, excretion and metabolism during lactation but few have addressed whether any changes are influenced by calcium intakes. Ongoing detailed research by the MRC Dunn Nutrition Unit in a rural area of The Gambia amongst mothers and infants with habitually low calcium intakes will provide valuable information about calcium needs during lactation and growth.