Levels of copper and zinc in different stages of breast milk and the influence of the nutritional state of nursing mothers

Abstract

Human milk has a unique composition and provides newborns with all essential nutrients such as proteins, fats, carbohydrates, minerals, vitamins and other physiologically active substances, in order to supply in quantity and quality the caloric and nutritional needs of the infant. The objective of this study was to establish the total concentration of copper and zinc in breast milk in its different stages: colostrum, transitional and mature milk, determined spectrometrically and the influence of the nutritional status of nursing mothers. We conducted a descriptive cross-sectional study in healthy non-smoking mothers between 18 and 35 years of age. Lower concentrations of copper and zinc as lactation progressed were observed. The average of body mass index of nursing mothers reflected overweight. We concludes that the caloric content of the trace elements of breast milk is essential for the growth of children because of the nutritional and immunological benefits that it provides, so it is important that the mother has an adequate nutritional state that allows to supply the adequate requirements for the child to grow and develop.