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Breastfeeding, metabolic programming and its relationship with chronic diseases

Abstract:

The use of breastfeeding as a protective factor against diseases of metabolism is rooted in the role of breast milk in metabolic programming. The aim of the article is to explain the role of breastfeeding as a protective event against metabolic diseases in humans, from its metabolic programming effect on the body. Breast milk contains biologically active lipids, carbohydrate and protein nature with modulatory activity of metabolism substances. It provides an ideal energy protein balance promoting proper metabolic programming and protection against metabolic diseases. Its use exclusively as a nutrition source reduces the risk of diabetes, hypertension, obesity, cardiovascular disease and metabolic syndrome in different animal models and humans. Its mechanism of action in the metabolic programming is still uncertain and diverse with suggestions on modifying enzymes and signaling pathways in favor of beneficial effects when breastfeeding is prolonged for more than six months exclusively. Breastfeeding as an essential practice in the early stages of life provides a protective metabolic programming against chronic non-communicable diseases such as diabetes, obesity, metabolic syndrome and hypertension. Its effectiveness against metabolic diseases should be clarified in studies that control variables such as time of feeding and genetic / environmental associated with the process of breastfeeding in human’s determinants.