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Research: NAGAYAMA and COLLEAGUES,
Listed in Issue 251
Abstract
NAGAYAMA and COLLEAGUES, 1. Institute of Environmental Sciences, Fukuoka Institute of Technology , Fukuoka , Japan studied the effect of maternal supplementation with Chlorella on carotenoid levels in breast milk at early lactation.
Background
Breast milk carotenoids provide neonates with a source of vitamin A and potentially, oxidative stress protection and other health benefits. Chlorella, which has high levels of carotenoids such as lutein, zeaxanthin and β-carotene, is an effective dietary source of carotenoids for humans.
Methodology
In this study, the effect of maternal supplementation with Chlorella on carotenoid levels in breast milk at early lactation was investigated. Ten healthy, pregnant women received 6 g of Chlorella daily from gestational week 16-20 until the day of delivery (Chlorella group); ten others did not (control group).
Results
Among the carotenoids detected in breast milk, lutein, zeaxanthin and β-carotene concentrations in the Chlorella group were 2.6-fold (p = 0.001), 2.7-fold (p = 0.001) and 1.7-fold (p = 0.049) higher, respectively, than those in the control group.
Conclusion
This study shows that Chlorella intake during pregnancy is effective in improving the carotenoid status of breast milk at early lactation.
References
Nagayama J1, Noda K, Uchikawa T, Maruyama I, Shimomura H, Miyahara M. Effect of maternal Chlorella supplementation on carotenoid concentration in breast milk at early lactation. Int J Food Sci Nutr; 65(5):573-6. Aug 2014. doi: 10.3109/09637486.2014.898257. Epub Mar 17 2014.
