Does lactic acid affect breast milk?

The Impact of Lactic Acid on Breast Milk
Lactic acid, a compound produced during anaerobic metabolism, has garnered attention in the context of breastfeeding, particularly regarding its effects on breast milk composition and infant health. Recent studies have shed light on how lactic acid interacts with breast milk, especially in relation to maternal exercise and the natural microbiome of breast milk.
Lactic Acid and Maternal Exercise
One significant finding is that intense physical activity can lead to increased levels of lactic acid in both maternal blood and breast milk. Research indicates that after maximal exercise, lactic acid concentrations rise notably in breast milk approximately ten minutes post-exercise. However, this elevation does not pose any harm to the infant. Experts from the Australian Breastfeeding Association affirm that while lactic acid levels may increase due to maternal exercise, there is no evidence suggesting that this affects the growth or health of breastfeeding infants. This reassurance is crucial for nursing mothers who may be concerned about the implications of their fitness routines on their milk supply and quality.
The Role of Lactic Acid Bacteria
Beyond the implications of exercise, breast milk is also a natural source of lactic acid bacteria, which play a vital role in establishing a healthy gut microbiome for infants. These bacteria are believed to originate endogenously, meaning they are not merely contaminants from the skin but are integral to the milk itself. This presence of lactic acid bacteria in breast milk contributes to the infant’s immune system and digestive health, highlighting the beneficial aspects of lactic acid in this context.
Conclusion
In summary, lactic acid does affect breast milk, particularly in response to maternal exercise, but this increase is not detrimental to infants. Instead, breast milk serves as a natural reservoir of lactic acid bacteria, which are beneficial for newborns. This dual role of lactic acid—both as a byproduct of maternal activity and as a contributor to infant health—underscores the complexity and adaptability of breast milk as a vital source of nutrition for infants.

How long does lactic acid stay in breastmilk?

Studies have shown that lactic acid levels in breast milk are significantly elevated for up to 90 minutes after maximal exercise, which may adversely alter the flavor of the milk. The good news is that there is no such elevation in lactic acid levels after moderate activity.

Is lactic acid present in breast milk?

Conclusions: Breast-feeding can be a significant source of lactic acid bacteria to the infant gut. Lactic acid bacteria present in milk may have an endogenous origin and may not be the result of contamination from the surrounding breast skin.

Does cortisol affect breast milk?

Cortisol can be passed to the baby through the breast milk. Past studies have shown that cortisol was found in the human milk of breastfeeding mothers experiencing higher levels of stress, and led to more crying and fussiness in their breastfed babies.

Does lactic acid affect dairy allergy?

Lactic acid bacteria do not, as such, have anything to do with dairy products; they are bacteria used widely in the food industry to ferment hundreds of foods from yogurt to sauerkraut.

What to avoid during lactation?

What not to eat and drink when breastfeeding

• 1 mug of filter coffee = 140mg.
• 1 mug of instant coffee = 100mg.
• 1 mug of tea = 75mg.
• 1 (250ml) can of energy drink = 80mg (larger cans may contain up to 160mg caffeine)
• 1 (354mls) cola drink = 40mg.
• 1 (50g) plain chocolate bar = up to 50mg.

How does lactic acid affect milk?

Lactic acid bacteria are a group of ‘friendly’ bacteria that are good at consuming the sugar in milk (lactose) and converting it into lactic acid and other components. Lactic acid bacteria change both the flavour and texture of the milk and thereby turn it into a completely different product.

What negatively affects breast milk?

Stress is the No. 1 killer of breastmilk supply, especially in the first few weeks after delivery. Between lack of sleep and adjusting to the baby’s schedule, rising levels of certain hormones such as cortisol can dramatically reduce your milk supply.

Is lactic acid safe while breastfeeding?

Pregnancy and breast-feeding: Lactic acid is likely safe when applied to the skin appropriately while pregnant or breast-feeding.

Can I go to the gym while breastfeeding?

From the benefits to your heart, your waistline, your bones, and even your mood – exercise and breastfeeding can certainly happen together safely.

What depletes breast milk?

Other things that can also lead you to have low milk production include:

• Smoking or drinking.
• Some medicines and herbs.
• Hormonal forms of birth control. This is especially true for birth control that has estrogen.
• Nursing or pumping less often.
• Getting sick.
• Feeling stressed.
• Getting pregnant again.