What are the side effects of fortified breast milk?

Understanding Fortified Breast Milk
Fortified breast milk has emerged as a crucial nutritional strategy, particularly for preterm infants who may require additional nutrients to support their growth and development. While the benefits of fortifying breast milk are well-documented, it is essential to consider the potential side effects that may arise from this practice.
The Purpose of Fortification
Fortification typically involves adding nutrients such as proteins, vitamins, and minerals to breast milk to enhance its caloric and nutritional content. This is particularly important for infants with very low birth weight, as standard breast milk may not provide sufficient nutrition for their needs. The goal is to promote healthy growth and development, ensuring that these vulnerable infants receive the necessary nutrients to thrive.
Potential Side Effects
While fortification can be beneficial, it is not without its risks. Some of the potential side effects associated with fortified breast milk include:
1. Gastrointestinal Distress: Infants may experience gastrointestinal issues such as bloating, gas, or diarrhea when introduced to fortified breast milk. This can occur due to the increased concentration of nutrients, which may be difficult for some infants to digest.
2. Nutrient Imbalance: Over-fortification can lead to an imbalance of nutrients. For instance, excessive protein intake can strain an infant’s kidneys, while too much calcium can lead to hypercalcemia, a condition characterized by elevated calcium levels in the blood.
3. Allergic Reactions: Some infants may develop allergies or intolerances to the components of the fortifier, particularly if it contains cow’s milk proteins or other allergens. This can manifest as skin rashes, respiratory issues, or gastrointestinal symptoms.
4. Increased Risk of Infections: There is some evidence suggesting that fortification may alter the microbiome of breast milk, potentially increasing the risk of infections in susceptible infants. This is particularly concerning for preterm infants, who already have compromised immune systems.
5. Long-term Health Implications: The long-term effects of consuming fortified breast milk are still being studied. Some research indicates that while short-term growth may improve, there could be implications for metabolic health later in life, particularly if nutrient levels are not carefully monitored.
Conclusion
In summary, while fortified breast milk plays a vital role in supporting the nutritional needs of preterm and low-birth-weight infants, it is essential for healthcare providers and parents to be aware of the potential side effects. Monitoring and adjusting the fortification process can help mitigate these risks, ensuring that the benefits of enhanced nutrition outweigh any adverse effects. As research continues to evolve, the guidelines surrounding breast milk fortification will likely adapt to better serve the needs of vulnerable infants.

When to stop fortified breast milk?

It is generally recommended (5,23) to gradually stop adding breast milk fortifier when the weight, length, and head circumference of gestational age infants are located in P25-P50 of the same gender and age infants, and when the small gestational age premature infants reach P10.

What does fortified milk do to your body?

Fortified milk helps prevent nutrient deficiencies, promote healthy development in children, and increase bone mass and strength.

What are the benefits of fortified breast milk?

Added to your breast milk or donor human milk, these fortifiers provide extra calories, protein, calcium, iron and vitamins to support your baby’s growth. Most fortifiers for premature babies come in powder form or liquid that can easily be mixed with human milk.

What are the disadvantages of fortification?

Just because a food product is fortified doesn’t mean it’s healthy. Fortified foods are often high in sugars, fats, sodium, and other ingredients that can lead to problems like obesity. ‌Risk of vitamin overdose. You might get too many vitamins and minerals in your diet, which can be harmful.

What happens if my baby drinks breast milk with alcohol?

When a person drinks, a small amount of alcohol passes through the blood into breast milk. Regular exposure to too much alcohol can affect a baby’s growth, development and sleep. The baby might seem drowsy and weak and have unhealthy weight gain. Alcohol also can affect the ability to safely care for a baby.

What are the side effects of drinking breast milk?

A study conducted on samples of breast milk bought online reported that 93% of samples contained bacteria, of which 74% contained gram-negative bacteria. Gram-negative bacteria can cause respiratory problems such as pneumonia and digestive issues such as diarrhea.

What are the side effects of drinking old breast milk?

Can babies get sick from old breast milk? If your baby has had spoiled breast milk, they’ll likely let you know. They may throw up, or have an upset stomach, diarrhea or fever. It’s important to call your pediatrician if you think your baby may be sick from having spoiled breast milk.

What are the risks of fortifying breast milk?

Since all the commonly used commercially prepared fortifiers are made from cow’s milk proteins (like regular formulas), some babies may have difficulty initially when the fortifier is added. They may have delayed emptying from the stomach, abdominal distention or even gas. The stools may change somewhat in color.

What are the side effects of breast milk supplements?

Summary of Use during Lactation
Milk thistle and silymarin are generally well tolerated in adults with only mild side effects such as diarrhea, headache, and skin reactions. Mothers taking milk thistle to increase milk supply reported weight gain, nausea, dry mouth and irritability occasionally.

At what age is breast milk no longer beneficial?

Breastmilk or infant formula should be your baby’s main source of nutrition for around the first year of life. Health professionals recommend exclusive breastfeeding for 6 months, with a gradual introduction of appropriate foods in the second 6 months and ongoing breastfeeding for 2 years or beyond.