In this episode of Behind the Latch, Margaret Salty reviews recent research findings that impact lactation consultants. From nutrient intake differences based on feeding type, to the power of food-based galactagogues, the emotional complexity of breastfeeding decisions, and the long-term effects of early breastfeeding initiation—Margaret translates the latest studies into actionable insights for IBCLCs.

Key Points Covered:

1. Infant Feeding Practices and Early-Life Nutrient Intake

Margaret reviews a secondary cross-sectional analysis from the Baby-Act Trial, which explores nutrient intake in breastfed, mixed-fed, and formula-fed infants in a WIC population in Puerto Rico.

Reference:

Palacios, C., Alvarez, E., Kallis, M. G., Valle, Y., Pomeroy, J., & Campos, M. (2025). Infant feeding practices and their association with early-life nutrient intake: Baseline findings from the Baby-Act Trial. Dietetics, 4(2), 15. https://doi.org/10.3390/dietetics4020015

Practical Takeaways:

• Exclusively breastfed infants consumed fewer calories but still met energy needs.
• Formula-fed babies had higher energy and protein intakes, which may contribute to faster growth and future obesity risk.
• IBCLCs should normalize slower growth in breastfed babies and support families in underserved communities.

2. Red Bean Juice vs. Green Bean Juice for Milk Production

Margaret shares findings from a quasi-experimental study in Indonesia comparing the effects of red bean juice and green bean juice on milk adequacy in postpartum mothers.

Reference:

Suwiyani, S., Nikmawati, N., & Masini, M. (2025). The effectiveness of administering red bean juice and green bean juice on adequate milk production in postpartum mothers. Midwifery and Nursing Research Journal, 7(1), 7–13. http://ejournal.poltekkes-smg.ac.id/ojs/index.php/MANR

Practical Takeaways:

• Red bean juice led to greater improvements in milk adequacy than green bean juice.
• Red beans contain protein, phytoestrogens, and isoflavones that may stimulate lactation.
• Food-based galactagogues are accessible, culturally relevant, and evidence-supported.

3. The Psychosocial Dilemma in Breastfeeding

Margaret explores a narrative review using the Extended Theory of Planned Behavior to understand the emotional, psychological, and social dimensions of breastfeeding.

Reference:

Wu, L., Li, X., Ismail, H. N., Guo, P., & Yang, J. (2025). Understanding the psychosocial dilemma in breastfeeding: A narrative review of extended theory of planned behavior and its intervention strategies. Reproductive Health, 22(46). https://doi.org/10.1186/s12978-025-02001-5

Practical Takeaways:

• Emotional attitude and self-efficacy predict breastfeeding duration more than knowledge alone.
• Guilt and social pressure can hinder sustained breastfeeding.
• Tailored education and emotional support—especially from partners and family—can boost success.

4. Breastfeeding Within the First Hour and Its Long-Term Impact

Margaret discusses a longitudinal cohort study from Brazil examining how early breastfeeding initiation affects exclusive breastfeeding duration and complementary feeding habits.

Reference:

Ficagna, C. R., Menezes, V. M., Kretzer, D. C., Moreira, P. R., Goldani, M. Z., da Silva, C. H., & Bernardi, J. R. (2025). Breastfeeding within the first hour: Associations with exclusive breastfeeding duration and complementary feeding. Revista Brasileira de Saúde Materno Infantil, 25, e20230367. https://doi.org/10.1590/1806-9304202500000367-en

Practical Takeaways:

• Early initiation improves exclusive breastfeeding rates at 2 months.
• Infants breastfed in the first hour were less likely to be introduced to salt, sugar, or honey early.
• IBCLCs should advocate for golden hour practices—even in surgical births

Conclusion:

Staying informed on the latest research ensures IBCLCs provide evidence-based support to breastfeeding families. This episode highlights key findings that reinforce best practices and identify areas for advocacy, education, and community engagement.

Connect with Me:

📷 Instagram: @margaretsalty

🎙️ Hosted by: Margaret Salty

🎵 Music by: The Magnifiers, My Time Traveling Machine

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#IBCLC #LactationConsultant #BreastfeedingResearch #LactationMentor #EvidenceBasedPractice