The Neuroscience of Breast Milk: Benefits for Preterm Infant Brains
For decades, the benefits of breastfeeding have been championed for supporting a baby’s immune system, bonding, and long-term health. But what if breast milk could also change the way the brain connects and functions—especially for preterm infants?
A groundbreaking study published in NeuroImage has added powerful scientific backing to that idea. Researchers discovered that early breast milk exposure significantly enhances brain connectivity in preterm infants, helping to lay the foundation for stronger cognitive, motor, and emotional development down the line (Blesa et al., 2019).
The Study: A Look Inside the Developing Brain
Using advanced MRI imaging, the researchers studied preterm infants and found a consistent pattern: those who received more breast milk in the early weeks of life had stronger white matter microstructural development and greater global brain network efficiency. In simpler terms, breast milk supported the creation of better "wiring" in the brain, which is essential for learning, communication, and coordination.
Even more compelling, the study found that this effect was independent of other variables such as gestational age at birth or illness severity. Breast milk had a uniquely positive impact on how the infant brain was organizing and maturing.
Why This Matters for Preterm Infants
Preterm babies face a higher risk of neurodevelopmental challenges, from motor delays to sensory integration issues and learning difficulties. The neonatal period is a critical time when the brain is forming vital connections at a rapid pace. Providing preterm infants with breast milk during this time may not just support their physical health but may also offer one of the most powerful tools for optimizing their brain development.
Breast Milk as Brain Medicine
Breast milk contains an array of bioactive compounds—from growth factors to essential fatty acids—that are not present in formula. These compounds promote the development of myelin (the insulating layer around brain connections), reduce inflammation, and even influence gene expression in ways that benefit brain health.
The NeuroImage study also supports the idea that breast milk serves as a form of "neuro-nutrition," giving preterm infants a head start in organizing their neural networks more efficiently.
What Parents and Providers Can Take Away
If you're a parent of a preterm baby, this research reinforces the immense value of breast milk whenever it's possible to provide it. For healthcare providers, it highlights the need to support lactation education and resources in the NICU and beyond.
Even if direct breastfeeding isn't feasible, providing expressed breast milk can offer similar benefits. The key is consistency and early exposure.
Final Thoughts
In the quest to support vulnerable preterm infants, breast milk is proving to be more than just nutrition. It is a therapeutic agent capable of shaping the developing brain in profound ways.
This study adds one more reason to advocate for increased support, education, and access to breast milk for preterm infants in hospital and home settings alike.
Reference: Blesa, M., Sullivan, G., Anblagan, D., Telford, E.J., Quigley, A.J., Sparrow, S.A., Serag, A., Semple, S.I., Bastin, M.E., & Boardman, J.P. (2019). Early breast milk exposure modifies brain connectivity in preterm infants. NeuroImage, 184, 431–439. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.neuroimage.2018.09.045