The Research Recap: 30-Feeding Practices, Milk Production, Psychosocial Dilemma, First Hour

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.

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🎙️ Hosted by: Margaret Salty

🎵 Music by: The Magnifiers, My Time Traveling Machine

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#IBCLC #LactationConsultant #BreastfeedingResearch #LactationMentor #EvidenceBasedPractice