Microplastics in Breast Milk Alters Infant Microbiomes
Most humans are first introduced to bacteria as infants, creating a unique microbiome, or ecosystem of microorganisms, within the body. Microbes like bacteria and even fungi colonize the human gut, playing an important role in digestion and the immune system. Exposure to beneficial bacteria is one of the most beneficial parts of breastfeeding, as it allows the mother to pass organisms from their own microbiome to the child. However, a study conducted by Walailak University in Thailand found microplastics in breast milk were linked to altered levels of microbes. Microplastics, the small particles of plastic that derive from larger plastic items, are being consumed and found in the human body at greater rates than ever before.
The university analyzed breast milk samples from 56 patients admitted to their Obstetrics and Gynecology Department as well as the nearby Thasala Hospital’s Breastfeeding Clinic. Starting from eight weeks before delivery, patients followed a dietary plan, reporting their diets and all hygiene products used one week before and after delivery. Breast milk samples were taken within three days of delivery. The researchers found that 38.98% of the breast milk samples tested contained microplastics, with the most common types being polyethylene, polypropylene, and polycarbonate. This is indicative of a widespread issue, which is worrying considering ingestion of microplastics has been linked to health issues in adults, and very little research has been done on the impact of microplastic ingestion in infants. While the researchers did not study the physical well-being of the babies, they did test the microbiota found in the breast milk samples. There was a significant difference in the breadth of bacteria in microplastic-contaminated breast milk and the uncontaminated samples, with the samples containing plastics having much less diverse microbiomes. In particular, these samples had fewer beneficial bacteria like lactobacillus, known to help with irritable bowel syndrome and lactose intolerance as well as improve the immune system, and bifidobacterium, which digests fiber and produces vitamin B and fatty acids.
The university analyzed breast milk samples from 56 patients admitted to their Obstetrics and Gynecology Department as well as the nearby Thasala Hospital’s Breastfeeding Clinic. Starting from eight weeks before delivery, patients followed a dietary plan, reporting their diets and all hygiene products used one week before and after delivery. Breast milk samples were taken within three days of delivery. The researchers found that 38.98% of the breast milk samples tested contained microplastics, with the most common types being polyethylene, polypropylene, and polycarbonate. This is indicative of a widespread issue, which is worrying considering ingestion of microplastics has been linked to health issues in adults, and very little research has been done on the impact of microplastic ingestion in infants. While the researchers did not study the physical well-being of the babies, they did test the microbiota found in the breast milk samples. There was a significant difference in the breadth of bacteria in microplastic-contaminated breast milk and the uncontaminated samples, with the samples containing plastics having much less diverse microbiomes. In particular, these samples had fewer beneficial bacteria like lactobacillus, known to help with irritable bowel syndrome and lactose intolerance as well as improve the immune system, and bifidobacterium, which digests fiber and produces vitamin B and fatty acids.
Babies that consumed contaminated breast milk had lower levels of lactobacillus and bifidobacterium, among other microbes.
Image Source: Sarah Chai
The researchers also found correlations between microplastic detection and worse maternal health outcomes, with mothers ingesting more microplastics having a greater rate of complications such as mastitis, breast engorgement, and decreased lactation. Some methods to prevent or decrease the ingestion of microplastics include not microwaving food in plastic containers, avoiding the use of straws, and not drinking from plastic water bottles. To prevent the risk of breast milk contamination in particular, mothers can wash hands before feeding and be mindful about the materials used to make their undergarments. Limiting contamination can prevent microplastics from impacting maternal health, thereby preventing alteration to the microbiome and negative effects on infant health.
Featured Image Source: Mart Production
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