Cardiovascular disease is a leading cause of mortality among women worldwide. It encompasses various conditions such as coronary artery disease, heart failure, and stroke.

The prevention and management of cardiovascular disease is a major public health concern, and recent studies have suggested that breastfeeding may play a significant role in reducing the risk of cardiovascular disease for mothers.

1. Breastfeeding and blood pressure regulation

Research indicates that women who breastfeed have a lower risk of developing high blood pressure compared to those who do not breastfeed. Breastfeeding promotes the release of a hormone called oxytocin, which acts as a natural antihypertensive agent.

Oxytocin helps dilate blood vessels, reducing peripheral resistance and subsequently lowering blood pressure. Additionally, breastfeeding has been associated with a reduction in the levels of stress hormones, such as cortisol, which can contribute to hypertension.

2. Breastfeeding and lipid profile

Studies have found that breastfeeding is associated with favorable lipid profiles in women.

It leads to higher levels of high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol, also known as “good cholesterol,” which helps remove excess cholesterol from the bloodstream. Breastfeeding has also been shown to lower triglyceride and low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol levels, which are risk factors for cardiovascular disease.

These lipid profile improvements contribute to a reduced risk of atherosclerosis and heart disease.

3. Weight management and breastfeeding

One of the potential cardioprotective effects of breastfeeding is its role in weight management. Breastfeeding requires a substantial amount of energy expenditure, as the body produces milk to nourish the infant.

This increased energy expenditure can aid in weight loss for the mother, potentially reducing the risk of obesity and its associated cardiovascular complications. Several studies have found that breastfeeding is associated with a lower body mass index (BMI) and a decreased likelihood of obesity later in life.

4. Breastfeeding and glucose metabolism

Mothers who breastfeed may experience improved glucose metabolism compared to those who do not breastfeed. Breastfeeding stimulates the release of insulin, which helps regulate blood sugar levels.

Research suggests that breastfeeding mothers may have better insulin sensitivity and a reduced risk of developing type 2 diabetes. Since diabetes is a significant risk factor for cardiovascular disease, these improvements in glucose metabolism can contribute to the overall cardioprotection of breastfeeding.

5. Psychological well-being and breastfeeding

Postpartum depression is a common condition among new mothers and has been linked to an increased risk of cardiovascular disease.

Breastfeeding has been shown to have a positive impact on maternal mental health, reducing the risk of postpartum depression. The bonding experience and hormone release during breastfeeding, including oxytocin, promote feelings of relaxation and well-being. Improved mental health can indirectly contribute to better cardiovascular health by reducing stress and anxiety levels.

6. Breastfeeding and lactation amenorrhea

Lactation amenorrhea refers to the absence of menstruation during breastfeeding. During this period, women experience a natural temporary infertility, as hormonal changes suppress ovulation.

This reproductive hiatus is associated with a reduced risk of cardiovascular disease. Longer durations of lactation amenorrhea have been correlated with a lower risk of diabetes and hypertension. Therefore, the longer a mother exclusively breastfeeds her infant, the greater the potential cardioprotective effect.

7. Breastfeeding and metabolic syndrome

Metabolic syndrome is a cluster of conditions, including abdominal obesity, high blood pressure, high blood sugar, and abnormal lipid levels, that significantly increase the risk of cardiovascular disease.

Multiple studies have found that breastfeeding is associated with a lower prevalence of metabolic syndrome in women. Breastfeeding helps mitigate the risk factors associated with metabolic syndrome by promoting weight loss, improving lipid profiles, and enhancing glucose metabolism.

8. Long-term cardiovascular risk reduction

The cardioprotective benefits of breastfeeding extend beyond the postpartum period. Research suggests that women who breastfeed have a lower risk of cardiovascular events later in life.

Longitudinal studies have shown that breastfeeding is associated with a reduced risk of heart attacks, strokes, and overall cardiovascular mortality. The cumulative effects of the various cardioprotective mechanisms of breastfeeding contribute to this long-term risk reduction.

9. Duration of breastfeeding and cardiovascular benefits

The duration of breastfeeding seems to correlate with the extent of cardiovascular protection. Studies have found that longer durations of breastfeeding are associated with a greater reduction in the risk of cardiovascular disease.

Experts recommend exclusive breastfeeding for at least six months and continued breastfeeding along with complementary foods for at least one year to maximize the cardioprotective effects.

10. Other factors influencing the cardioprotective effects of breastfeeding

While breastfeeding offers significant cardioprotective benefits, it is vital to consider other factors that can influence its effects.

Maternal factors such as age, pre-pregnancy body mass index, and pre-existing cardiovascular risk factors may interact with breastfeeding to modulate its outcomes. Additionally, the infant’s feeding patterns, including exclusive breastfeeding and the introduction of complementary foods, may affect the extent of cardioprotection experienced by the mother.