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Understanding MCT Content in Breast Milk
Breast milk is a remarkable substance, tailored by nature to meet the nutritional needs of infants. Among its many components, medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs) play a significant role in providing energy and supporting healthy growth.
What Are MCTs?
Medium-chain triglycerides are a type of fat that consists of fatty acids with a chain length of 6 to 12 carbon atoms. Unlike long-chain triglycerides, which are more common in the diet, MCTs are metabolized differently. They are absorbed quickly and converted into energy, making them a valuable source of calories for infants who require rapid energy for growth and development.
MCT Content in Breast Milk
The composition of breast milk is dynamic, changing to meet the evolving needs of a growing baby. While the exact percentage of MCTs can vary, breast milk typically contains a mix of fats, including both MCTs and long-chain triglycerides. Studies indicate that approximately 15-20% of the total fat content in breast milk can be attributed to MCTs. This proportion can fluctuate based on factors such as maternal diet and the stage of lactation.
Benefits of MCTs for Infants
MCTs are particularly beneficial for infants for several reasons:
1. Rapid Energy Source: Due to their shorter chain length, MCTs are quickly absorbed and metabolized, providing a fast source of energy that is crucial for newborns.
2. Support for Brain Development: The brain relies heavily on fats for energy, and MCTs can be an efficient fuel source, potentially supporting cognitive development.
3. Easier Digestion: MCTs require less bile for digestion compared to long-chain fats, making them easier for infants to process, especially those with immature digestive systems.
Conclusion
In summary, the MCT content in breast milk is a vital component that contributes to the overall health and development of infants. With about 15-20% of the fat content being MCTs, breast milk not only provides essential nutrients but also ensures that babies receive a quick and efficient source of energy. This unique composition underscores the importance of breastfeeding as the optimal source of nutrition for newborns.
Is there MCT in breast milk?
It has been shown that the gastric hydrolysis of fat is higher in infants fed with human milk than those fed with a formula, including the MCT formula, although the 8:0 and 10:0 were less abundant in human milk (approximately 2%) than those in an infant formula (approximately 24%) (42, 43).
How much MCT is in milk?
Table 2.
| Milk Origin | ||
|---|---|---|
| Cow | Almond | |
| Total fat (%) | 3.3 | 1.1 |
| MCT (% of total fat) | 10.5 | 0.2 |
| CLA (% of total fat) | 0.7 | n/a |
What are the macro content of breast milk?
As is already well known, HBM contains about 87%–88% water, and 124- g/L solid components as macronutrients, including about 7% (60–70 g/L) carbohydrates, 1% (8–10 g/L) protein, and 3.8% (35–40 g/L) fat. The composition may vary depending on the environmental factors, including maternal diet.
Do infants gain weight on MCT oil?
Milk fortification enhances milk’s calorie density, which in turn reduces the need for feedings. 22 According to the results of the current research, infants fed MCT-fortified breast milk gained an average weight per kilogram per day and on tenth day 15.8 of average weight gain in Group D amongst MCT added infants.
Can breastfeeding moms have MCT oil?
MCT oil is often given to preemies and very young children with issues gaining weight beyond the normal calorie fortifiers. For that reason, I would not have major concern for any breastmilk transmission from a single meal.
What hormone is found in breast milk?
Prolactin is the hormone that produces milk. You’ll notice your milk production increases dramatically at this stage. It’s often referred to as milk “coming in.” Your breasts are often engorged (or overly full of milk) to the point where they feel sore, painful or tender.
