Evidence supporting the use of: Milk fat
For the health condition: Nursing
Synopsis
Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 4
Milk fat plays a key role in supporting nursing, especially in infant nutrition. Human milk is naturally rich in milk fat, which provides about 50% of the energy content in breast milk. Scientific studies have demonstrated that milk fat contains essential fatty acids, such as docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) and arachidonic acid (ARA), which are crucial for the development of the infant brain and nervous system. Milk fat globule membrane (MFGM) components have also been shown to contribute to immune function and gut health in infants. Clinical studies indicate that infants fed formulas enriched with bovine-derived milk fat or MFGM components exhibit improved cognitive and immune outcomes compared to those fed formulas without these components. The World Health Organization and pediatric nutrition guidelines recognize the importance of dietary fats, particularly from milk, to meet the high energy needs of nursing infants and to support optimal growth and development. Although some infant formulas use plant oils instead of milk fat for practical reasons, current scientific evidence supports the use of milk fat in formulas and supplements designed for nursing infants. Thus, the use of milk fat in the context of nursing is justified by strong scientific evidence, particularly for its nutritional and developmental benefits.
Other health conditions supported by Milk fat
ConvalescenceGastritis
Inflammation
Nursing
Skin Care (general)
Wounds and Sores