Breast Milk Alternative Boosts IQ and Executive Function in Kids

neurosciencenews.com

25 points·webmaven··9 comments

nb this is measured in comparison to a different formulation, not in comparison to natural breast milk as one might think by the headline

> Objective

> To evaluate the neurodevelopmental outcomes at 5.5 years of age in children who were previously randomized to cow milk–based infant formula (control) or similar formula (milk fat globule membrane + lactoferrin) with added sources of bovine milk fat globule membrane and bovine lactoferrin through 12 months of age.

Whats the iq of children on breast milk vs standard formula?

High single digit improvement for an increase from a breastfeeding duration of one month to several months was found in a study referenced in this review (other parts of the review reference benefits including protection against SIDS and ADHD):

https://cybermedlife.eu/attachments/article/5212/The%20benef...

Thanks for answering the question and linking to the study.

This study doesn't even show the sample sizes for each referenced study. Take it with a pinch of salt.

Because the benefits of breastfeeding are already extremely well documented in the literature.

What about adults?

I’m guessing because adults aren’t developing as rapidly as babies it would not be significant, if any benefit. But someone would need to perform a study.

hmmm, well looking at lactoferrin specifically we could flip it to say to get your iron/copper/zinc levels as an adult checked. Many of the smart geeky adults I encounter have a zinc deficiency. This often shows up as a minor eczema such as types of dyshydrosis and hidradenitis suppurativa.

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