Breastfeeding helps lower depression

Jul 26, 2013 |

Breastfeeding can lower the risk of depression in new moms by halting the harmful build-up of vitamin A in the brain, scientists claim.

Scientists from Jackson State University in US found that breastfeeding transfers vitamin A to the child, which otherwise builds up in the mother and can trigger depression.
“Breastfeeding may transfer vital nutrients to a baby, yet at the same time provide a natural means of reducing potentially toxic concentrations of vitamin A in the mother,” researchers said.
Pregnant women store high levels of the vitamin as babies need it to develop. The experts, warn that if women choose formula milk or end breastfeeding early it may lead to depression because of the build up of Vitamin A in the brain, the Sun reported. Around 80 per cent of new mothers experience mild depression, and around ten per cent suffer postnatal depression. Some experts blame hormonal changes, but other possible causes include a history of depression, abuse, or mental illness, smoking or alcohol.

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