A recent study in Gastro Hep Advances led by Yale researchers, with Lauren Smith, MD, as lead author, delves into how human milk, whether from parents or donors, supports intestinal health and growth. Conversely, the study finds that formula inhibits certain growth factors crucial for intestinal development.
The research highlights that human milk, both parental and donor, enhances the growth and differentiation of intestinal epithelial cells. Specifically, it improves the development of enteroendocrine cells, which aid in digestion and peristalsis.
Liza Konnikova, MD, PhD, the corresponding author and associate professor at Yale, noted, “Our findings suggest that breast milk contains factors beneficial for intestinal epithelial growth, while formula may have detrimental effects. Understanding these factors could potentially lead to improved formulas or supplementation strategies to enhance intestinal health in formula-fed infants.”
Lead author Lauren Smith emphasized the study’s implications for future research: “Our study indicates that nutritional choices significantly impact the development of fetal intestinal tissue. Formula-fed tissue showed a more inflammatory immune response compared to tissue fed with human milk, which exhibited improved growth and a more balanced immune profile. This may explain differences in gastrointestinal complications observed in preterm infants.”
The study involved collaboration with researchers from the University of Pittsburgh, underscoring the interdisciplinary approach to understanding infant nutrition and health.
