Breast milk plays a crucial role in the development and long-term health of infants, according to groundbreaking research conducted by Dr. Iliyana Rasheva and her team from Sofia University. The project, titled Microbiome and Composition of Breast Milk: Key Factors, Role and Interrelationship with Oral and Intestinal Microbiota in Newborn Children, aims to shed light on the significance of the intestinal microbiome for infant health.
By studying the microbiome of breast milk, saliva, and feces of newborn children, the researchers aim to understand the interrelationship between these factors. This comprehensive study, the first of its kind in Bulgaria, includes the analysis of physicochemical indicators, such as protein, lactose, oligosaccharides, and fatty acid profile, as well as the assessment of microbial species present.
The project focuses exclusively on breastfed children and aims to improve the health status of newborns in Bulgaria. It also addresses the issue of breast milk shortage for newborns at risk. This research can contribute to increased public awareness of the importance of breast milk donation and its impact on newborns.
Although the project is still in its initial stage, some preliminary conclusions have been drawn. The presence of lactobacilli, particularly lactobacillus rhamnosus, indicates a good probiotic potential in the Bulgarian population. Additionally, the research suggests that the mode of delivery, whether natural or through a caesarean section, has an impact on the diversity of bacteria present in infants.
The study also highlights the importance of breastfeeding and complementary feeding in shaping the intestinal microbiome. Breast milk, with its high concentration of lactose and over 200 types of oligosaccharides, provides essential nutrients for healthy growth, reduces the risk of obesity, and supports the development of the newborn’s immune system.
Breast milk banks exist across Europe, and Bulgaria has its own Human Milk Bank in Sofia. However, the findings from this research project emphasize the need for increased awareness and support for breast milk donation to ensure an adequate supply for newborns in need.
The three-year project is ongoing, with approximately twenty complete analyses conducted so far. While it is too early to draw final conclusions, the study holds promise for improving newborn health outcomes in Bulgaria and beyond. By understanding the importance of the intestinal microbiome and the factors that influence breast milk composition, researchers can contribute to the overall well-being and long-term health of infants.
The groundbreaking research conducted by Dr. Iliyana Rasheva and her team serves as a significant step forward in understanding the role of the intestinal microbiome in infant health. With ongoing research and continued support for breast milk donation, the aim is to promote the importance of breastfeeding and ensure healthier futures for newborns.
