Is there something in breast milk that helps babies sleep?

The Sleep-Inducing Secrets of Breast Milk
Breast milk is often hailed as the gold standard for infant nutrition, but recent research suggests it may also play a crucial role in helping babies sleep better. The composition of breast milk changes throughout the day, and these variations can significantly influence an infant’s sleep patterns.
Melatonin and Circadian Rhythms
One of the key components found in breast milk is melatonin, a hormone that regulates sleep-wake cycles. Studies indicate that nighttime breast milk contains higher levels of melatonin compared to milk expressed during the day. This “night milk” is thought to signal to the baby that it is time to sleep, helping to establish a healthy circadian rhythm. As babies consume this melatonin-rich milk, they may be more likely to drift off into a peaceful slumber.
Moreover, breast milk not only provides melatonin but also contains other sleep-promoting substances such as tryptophan and leptin. Tryptophan is an amino acid that the body uses to produce serotonin, which in turn is converted into melatonin. Leptin, on the other hand, is involved in regulating energy balance and appetite, signaling to the baby that they are satiated, which can also contribute to a more restful sleep.
The Role of Prolactin
Interestingly, the act of breastfeeding itself can induce sleepiness in mothers due to the release of prolactin, a hormone that promotes relaxation and sleep. This physiological response not only benefits the mother but can also create a calming environment for the baby, further enhancing the likelihood of a good night’s sleep.
Sunlight and Sleep Patterns
In addition to the hormonal components of breast milk, exposure to natural light plays a vital role in helping infants develop their sleep cycles. Breast milk helps babies learn to differentiate between day and night, especially when combined with exposure to sunlight. This understanding of light and dark is essential for establishing a regular sleep pattern.
Conclusion
In summary, breast milk is not just a source of essential nutrients; it also contains a unique blend of hormones and compounds that can significantly aid in promoting better sleep for infants. The presence of melatonin, tryptophan, and leptin, along with the calming effects of breastfeeding, creates an environment conducive to sleep. As research continues to unfold, it becomes increasingly clear that the benefits of breastfeeding extend far beyond nutrition, playing a pivotal role in the overall well-being of both mother and child.

What makes babies fall asleep while breastfeeding?

Even falling asleep at the breast is usually fine. In fact, many babies will fall asleep after getting in a good feed. A full tummy makes babies tired, and falling asleep is a natural reaction. Some babies empty the breast in just a few minutes and fall asleep satisfied.

What is the sleep inducing hormone in milk?

Certain compounds in milk — specifically tryptophan and melatonin — may help you fall asleep. Tryptophan is an amino acid found in a variety of protein-containing foods. It plays an important role in the production of the neurotransmitter known as serotonin ( 6 ).

What in breastmilk makes a baby sleepy?

However, since breast milk is more easily digestible than formula, babies who breastfeed are likely to wake up more frequently than formula-fed babies, as they will get hungrier faster. However, the melatonin in breast milk will facilitate their sleep, so right after the feeding, they’ll go back to sleep easily.

What is the sleepy hormone in breast milk?

For example breastmilk contains hormones such as leptin and melatonin influencing appetite and sleep respectively, and milk fat content is lower during the night and morning feedings [23].

What is in milk that induces sleep?

It was found that Night milk has exceptionally rich amounts of tryptophan and melatonin, and that rats given Night milk showed an increased circulating melatonin. Furthermore, a study conducted in elderly patients showed that Night milk improved sleep quality that resulted in a better daytime activity.

What is the sleepy chemical in breast milk?

Maternal milk contains melatonin, which exhibits circadian oscillations, with lower levels during the day and higher levels at night, reaching a peak of approximately 40 pg/mL [23].

What if baby doesn’t burp and falls asleep?

What to do in this case? A: If your baby falls asleep before burping, gently try to burp them while they are still drowsy. If unsuccessful, it’s generally okay to let them sleep without forcing a burp. Ensure a comfortable sleeping position to prevent discomfort, and try burping after the next feeding.

What is in breastmilk that makes babies sleep?

Breast milk naturally contains melatonin, a hormone associated with sleep. Infants cannot produce this hormone on their own and rely on the secretion in breast milk to help regulate their circadian rhythms.

Is melatonin in breast milk a myth?

Because your body naturally produces melatonin, some of it passes into your breast milk. Typically, the concentration of melatonin will be higher in the milk that you produce at night than in the milk you produce during the day.

What in breast milk makes babies sleepy?

Breast milk pumped at night has more melatonin — the hormone of drowsiness — and higher levels of nucleotides thought to promote sleep. By contrast, breast milk pumped in the morning features higher concentration of cortisol, a stress hormone that makes babies more alert.