Breastfeeding makes babies better at handling stress

A new study says breastfeeding can  change the activity of a gene in the infants that regulates their physiological response to stress, specifically the release of the hormone cortisol. Experts looked at more than 40 full-term, healthy babies and their mothers, half of whom were breastfed for the first five months and half of whom were not. They measured the cortisol stress reactivity in infant saliva and the DNA methylation of an important regulatory region of the glucocorticoid receptor gene which regulates development, metabolism, and immune response. Breastfeeding was associated with decreased DNA methylation and decreased cortisol reactivity in the infants meaning babies who were breastfed were better at handling stress than those who were not. The findings appeared in the Journal, Pediatrics. 

Milk protein can ease chemotherapy side effects

A study says chemotherapy and other cancer therapies can wreak havoc on the taste buds and olfactory senses. Over time, taste and smell abnormalities (TSA) can lead to a loss of appetite and anorexic behaviours, compromising patients' ability to recuperate. Researchers found that lactoferrin, a highly bioactive protein found in saliva and milk, can be a treatment for TSA. Chemotherapy patients describe a persistent metallic flavour or aftertaste, with or without food intake. This can last for weeks, or even months after treatment. As a result, cancer patients suffer poor appetite, weight loss, depression and diminished nutrition affecting recovery. This study suggests lactoferrin as a dietary supplement can reduce TSA, restoring patients’ ability to enjoy foods, making it possible for them to taste foods properly and enjoy a healthier appetite, enabling more optimal nutrition during a critical period of recovery. Lactoferrin supplementation may help reduce oxidative stress and resulting side effects. Oral infections, such as thrush, also may be diminished. The study appeared in the Journal, Food & Function. — Agencies