Premature birth, which is the birth of a baby before 37 weeks of gestation, is a global public health concern. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), about 15 million babies are born premature every year, and this number is increasing.

While it is true that medical advancements have increased the survival rates of premature infants, these babies are still at high risk of developing various health problems, including heart diseases.

Breastfeeding is known to have numerous benefits for both the mother and the baby. In the case of premature infants, breast milk provides essential nutrients and antibodies that can protect them from infections and other health issues.

However, recent studies have also shown that breastfeeding can have significant positive effects on the heart health of premature babies.

Reduced Risk of Cardiovascular Diseases

One of the main benefits of breastfeeding for premature infants is its ability to reduce the risk of cardiovascular diseases.

One study published in the Journal of Pediatrics found that premature infants who were exclusively breastfed for six months had lower blood pressure and a reduced risk of developing hypertension later in life compared to those who were not breastfed or were fed with formula. The study also found that breastfed premature infants had better lipid profiles, which is an indicator of lower cardiovascular risk.

Another study published in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition found that breastfed premature infants had better heart rate variability, which is the variation in time intervals between consecutive heartbeats.

Heart rate variability is an indicator of the function of the autonomic nervous system, which controls the heart rate and other vital functions. An impaired autonomic nervous system function is associated with an increased risk of cardiovascular diseases, and breast milk seems to improve this function in premature infants.

Protection Against Inflammation

Premature infants are at high risk of developing inflammation, which can lead to various health problems, including heart diseases.

Breast milk contains numerous protective compounds, including anti-inflammatory agents, that can protect premature infants from inflammation. One study published in the Journal of Pediatrics found that breastfed premature infants had lower levels of C-reactive protein (CRP), an indicator of inflammation, compared to formula-fed premature infants.

The study also found that breast milk-fed premature infants had lower levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines, which are molecules involved in inflammation.

Reduced Risk of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS)

Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS) is the sudden and unexpected death of an infant under one year of age, and it is a leading cause of infant mortality worldwide.

While the exact cause of SIDS is unknown, researchers believe that several factors, including heart problems, may contribute to this condition. Breastfeeding has been shown to reduce the risk of SIDS in term infants, and recent studies have also found that breastfeeding can reduce the risk of SIDS in premature infants.

One study published in the Journal of Pediatrics found that premature infants who were breastfed had a 60% reduced risk of SIDS compared to those who were not breastfed or were fed with formula.

Promotion of Optimal Growth and Development

Breast milk contains numerous growth factors and hormones that promote optimal growth and development in premature infants. These nutrients can also support the development of the cardiovascular system.

One study published in the Journal of Pediatrics found that breastfed premature infants had higher levels of insulin-like growth factor-1 (IGF-1), a hormone that promotes growth and development. The study also found that breast milk-fed premature infants had better cognitive development scores compared to formula-fed premature infants.

Boosted Immune System

As mentioned earlier, breast milk contains essential nutrients and antibodies that can protect premature infants from infections and other health problems.

A strong immune system is crucial for the cardiovascular health of premature infants as infections can lead to inflammation and other complications. One study published in the Journal of Pediatrics found that breastfed premature infants had lower rates of hospital readmission due to infections compared to formula-fed premature infants.

Conclusion

In summary, breastfeeding has numerous heart benefits for premature infants. Breast milk can reduce the risk of cardiovascular diseases, protect against inflammation and SIDS, promote optimal growth and development, and boost the immune system.

While breastfeeding may be challenging for premature infants, it is essential for the long-term health and well-being of these vulnerable babies. Healthcare providers should encourage and support breastfeeding for premature infants and their mothers.