LLLI Center for Breastfeeding Information

Journal Abstract of the Month for October 2002

"Infant feeding and blood cholesterol: A study in adolescents and a systematic review." By Christopher G. Owen, Peter H. Whincup, Katherine Odoki, Julie A. Gilg and Derek G. Cook. Pediatrics 2002-9;110(3):597-608

In Britain 1,532 individuals ranging in age from 13 to 16 were examined, watching for the method of feeding in infancy and whether or not it affected the TC (total cholesterol) and LDL (low-density lipoprotein) levels in infancy, and adolescence. In addition 37 studies were examined, looking at feeding and outcomes in these age groups and also in adulthood. Among infants who received exclusive breastfeeding, TC and LDL levels tended to be higher in the British study. There was an absence of association between infant feeding and TC and LDL levels in adolescence for both boys and girls. In the analysis of studies where adult outcomes were compared, both TC and LDL levels were lower in those breastfed rather than bottlefed.

Coronary heart disease risk begins to emerge before adulthood, and while the causality between breastfeeding and lower TC and LDL in adults still has to be established, this could represent a form of nutritional programming which has a lifelong significance.

This article has been categorized with the following keywords:
Cholesterol, Long term benefits, Formula Concerns, Comparisons