Lactose in breast milk and its impact on the baby
Breastfeeding is a crucial stage in a baby’s life, and breast milk is considered the ideal food for its development.
One of the essential components of breast milk is lactose, a type of sugar that plays a fundamental role in the growth and well-being of the baby.
What is Lactose?
Lactose is a natural carbohydrate present in the milk of all mammals, including humans. It is a disaccharide, which means that it is composed of two simple sugar molecules: glucose and galactose. When a baby consumes breast milk, lactose travels through the digestive tract until it reaches the small intestine, where it is broken down by an enzyme called lactase. This enzyme splits lactose into glucose and galactose, allowing them to be absorbed by the body and used as a source of energy and for other biological functions.
Importance of Lactose in Breast Milk
Lactose is one of the most important components of breast milk, accounting for approximately 40% of the total caloric content. This proportion of lactose is essential not only because it provides a significant source of energy, but also because it fulfills several key functions in the baby’s development. On the one hand, the glucose resulting from the breakdown of lactose is essential for muscle and brain function.
On the other hand, galactose is crucial for the development of the nervous system and brain, being indispensable for optimal neurological growth. In addition, lactose facilitates the absorption of minerals such as calcium, magnesium and phosphorus, which are vital for the formation of strong bones and teeth. It also promotes the growth of beneficial bacteria in the baby’s gut, which is essential for digestive health and protection against infections.
Lactase Enzyme and its Role in Digestion
Lactase is the enzyme responsible for breaking down lactose into glucose and galactose. This enzyme is produced in large quantities during the first months of a baby’s life, coinciding with the period when breast milk is the main or only source of nourishment. The high lactase activity at this stage is crucial to ensure that the baby can digest breast milk efficiently.
Over time, lactase production tends to decrease in many people, which can lead to a condition known as lactose intolerance. This decrease in lactase production varies considerably among different populations and is less common in infants, as their bodies are biologically prepared to digest the lactose present in breast milk.
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Lactose Intolerance: Myths and Realities
Lactose intolerance occurs when the body does not produce enough lactase to break down all the lactose ingested, which can cause symptoms such as gas, bloating, diarrhea and abdominal pain. It is important to note that lactose intolerance is different from a milk allergy, which is an immune system reaction to the proteins present in milk.
In infants, lactose intolerance is rare and usually temporary. It usually occurs in cases where the intestine has been damaged by infections or antibiotics, which temporarily reduces the body’s ability to produce lactase. This condition, known as secondary lactose intolerance, is reversible, and once the intestine recovers, the baby is usually able to digest breast milk normally.
Lactose in Breast Milk and Allergies
One of the most common misconceptions is the belief that a baby can be allergic to lactose. In reality, lactose allergy does not exist. Lactose, being a sugar, cannot trigger an allergic reaction, as allergies are immune responses to specific proteins. In some cases, infants may be allergic to specific proteins present in breast milk, such as cow’s milk proteins that the mother consumes and that pass into breast milk. However, this condition is different from lactose intolerance and requires a different approach to its management.
When a baby has an allergic reaction to a component of breast milk, the most common treatment is for the mother to eliminate that specific food from her diet. This is known as an exclusion diet, and can help reduce or eliminate allergic symptoms in the baby, allowing the baby to continue to benefit safely from breastfeeding.
Lactose in Breast Milk
Lactose is an essential component of breast milk, providing energy, facilitating nutrient absorption, and supporting infant brain development. While lactose intolerance is a topic of concern, especially in relation to breastfeeding, it is important to understand that this condition is rare in infants and, in most cases, does not warrant discontinuation of breastfeeding.
Breast milk offers unique benefits that are irreplaceable, and most babies can consume it without problems. In cases where special conditions such as galactosemia exist, it is critical to follow medical advice and seek safe alternatives for infant feeding. Maintaining good communication with a health professional and following a proper diet can ensure that both mother and baby enjoy a healthy and beneficial breastfeeding experience.
Frequently asked questions about breast milk consumption in infants
What is lactose and why is it important in breast milk?
Lactose is a type of sugar present in breast milk, composed of glucose and galactose. It accounts for 40% of the total calories in breast milk, making it a vital source of energy for the baby. Glucose provides energy needed for daily functioning, while galactose is crucial for the development of the nervous system and brain. In addition, lactose facilitates the absorption of essential minerals such as calcium, which contributes to the baby’s healthy bone growth.
How is lactose digested in the baby's body?
Lactose digestion takes place in the infant’s small intestine, where an enzyme called lactase breaks down lactose into glucose and galactose. This breakdown is essential for these simple sugars to be absorbed and utilized by the body. Lactase production is high in the first few months of life, allowing babies to efficiently digest breast milk. As the baby grows, lactase production may decrease, but during lactation it is generally sufficient to ensure adequate digestion.
What is the difference between lactose intolerance and milk allergy?
Lactose intolerance occurs when the baby’s body does not produce enough lactase, which causes difficulty digesting lactose. This can cause symptoms such as diarrhea, gas and abdominal pain. It is important to note that lactose intolerance is not an immune system reaction. On the other hand, milk allergy is an immune response to milk proteins, not lactose. Allergies can cause severe symptoms such as shortness of breath and rashes, and require a completely different approach to management.
Is it necessary to stop breastfeeding if the baby shows signs of lactose intolerance?
No, in most cases, it is not necessary to discontinue breastfeeding. Lactose intolerance in infants is rare and, when it occurs, it is usually transient and related to factors such as gastrointestinal infections. Breast milk offers many other benefits, including beneficial bacteria that help the gut recover. Therefore, continued breastfeeding is usually best for the baby, even in cases of mild intolerance.
What medical conditions require avoiding lactose in baby food?
One of the few conditions that require avoidance of lactose is galactosemia, a rare genetic disease in which the baby cannot metabolize galactose. This condition is severe and is diagnosed shortly after birth. Babies with galactosemia cannot consume breast milk or any lactose-containing products, and must be fed special lactose-free formulas to avoid serious health complications.