We know:feeding with milk has many benefits, both for the baby and for the mother. Thus, children who have been breastfed are at lower risk ofobesity, are protected against certain intestinal diseases, are (maybe) smarter … Mothers gain additional protection against ovarian cancer, hypertension and (even!) smoking.
But beware of idealization: breastfeeding has – all the same – some negative consequences. Thus, quite recently, a study carried out by researchers from University of Gothenburg (Sweden) showed that breastfeeding women had lower bone density than others, and therefore potentially more fragile bones.
To reach this conclusion, Swedish scientists followed 95 women (of different ages and social categories) for 18 months after their birth. childbirth. Their bone mass was measured regularly, as was their vitamin D level – since this vitamin contributes to good bone health.
4% less bone density in 4 months
Verdict? Volunteers who continued breastfeeding for at least 4 months after birth had (on average) lost 4% bone density, especially in the hips, shins and spine. On the other hand, their rate of vitamin D had hardly moved.
“We advise young mothers who have chosen to breastfeed to take care of their bones: stock up on calcium, especially through dairy products, choose an appropriate mineral water, do not shy away from proteins … And above all, ask your doctor for advice, ”the researchers analyze. Because good bone health depends above all on the plate!
