In this episode of The IBCLC Mentor Podcast, Margaret Salty dives into the latest research articles from her Google Scholar alerts, exploring how recent findings can enhance the practice of IBCLCs. Margaret breaks down complex research into actionable strategies for lactation consultants, focusing on how these insights can improve breastfeeding outcomes. Whether you're a seasoned IBCLC or just starting your journey, these episodes will keep you at the forefront of evidence-based lactation care.

Margaret reviews this randomized controlled trial by Karimi et al. (2024), which demonstrates how yoga-based interventions significantly increase breast milk volume in mothers of premature infants in NICUs. She explores how integrating relaxation techniques can improve milk production and maternal well-being.

Reference:

Karimi, F., Aziznejadroshan, P., Akbarian Rad, Z., Nikbakht, H.-A., & Qujeq, D. (2024). Investigating the effect of yoga-based educational interventions on the volume and composition of breast milk in premature infants’ mothers admitted to the neonatal intensive care unit: A randomized controlled trial. Journal of Education and Health Promotion, 13, 455. https://doi.org/10.4103/jehp.jehp_1446_23

This study by Yulianti (2024) highlights the critical role of structured lactation education in improving exclusive breastfeeding rates at 1 and 3 months postpartum. Margaret discusses the practical steps IBCLCs can take to implement these findings in their practice.

Reference:

Yulianti, N. H. (2024). The effect of lactation education on the success of exclusive breastfeeding in postpartum mothers. International Journal of Nursing and Midwifery Research, 3(1), 36–46. https://journals.iarn.or.id/index.php/ners/index

Margaret examines this study from the SYMBA trial by Divakara et al. (2024), which finds that prebiotic supplementation selectively enhances immunological factors like TGF-β1 and sCD14 in breast milk. She shares insights on how maternal diet impacts breastfeeding outcomes.

Reference:

Divakara, N., Dempsey, Z., Saraswati, C., Garssen, J., Silva, D., Keelan, J. A., Christophersen, C. T., Cooper, M. N., Prescott, S. L., Palmer, D. J., Verhasselt, V., & Macchiaverni, P. (2024). Effect of maternal prebiotic supplementation on human milk immunological composition: Insights from the SYMBA study. Pediatric Allergy and Immunology, 35(9), e14226. https://doi.org/10.1111/pai.14226

This multicenter cohort study by Kishino et al. (2025) explores how maternal egg consumption during lactation does not significantly affect infant egg allergy development but emphasizes early eczema management as a critical factor. Margaret shares strategies for addressing allergy concerns in breastfeeding families.

Reference:

Kishino, S., Yonezawa, K., Haruna, M., Usui, Y., Sasaki, S., Fujita, M., Matsuzaki, M., Sato, Y., Suetsugu, Y., Ohori, R., Tanaka, M., & Aoyama, S. (2025). Relationship between maternal egg consumption during lactation and the risk of developing egg allergies in 12-month-old infants: A multicenter cohort study. Japan Journal of Nursing Science, 22(1), e12631. https://doi.org/10.1111/jjns.12631

• Incorporate Relaxation Techniques: Advocate for yoga-based practices to enhance milk production in mothers of preterm infants.
• Deliver Comprehensive Education: Use structured lactation education sessions to empower families and improve exclusive breastfeeding rates.
• Optimize Maternal Diet: Share evidence on the benefits of prebiotic-rich diets during lactation.
• Address Allergy Concerns: Educate families about the limited role of maternal diet in allergy prevention and the importance of eczema management.

Staying updated with the latest research is essential for providing the best care as an IBCLC. By integrating evidence-based strategies, you can enhance breastfeeding support and outcomes. Tune in each week as we explore more insights from the world of lactation science.

Have questions or suggestions for future episodes? Reach out at [insert website link] or connect with me on social media:

• Instagram: @margaretsalty
• Facebook: Margaret Salty's IBCLC Community

• Hosted by: Margaret Salty
• Music by: The Magnifiers, "My Time Traveling Machine"

#IBCLC #LactationConsultant #BreastfeedingResearch #LactationMentor #IBCLCMentorPodcast #EvidenceBasedPractice

Episode Description:

In this episode of The IBCLC Mentor Podcast, Margaret Salty demystifies the differences between various lactation credentials, with a focus on the IBCLC, CLC, and other certifications like Certified Lactation Specialist (CLS), Certified Breastfeeding Specialist (CBS), Certified Lactation Educator (CLE), Certified Breastfeeding Counselor (CBC), and Community Breastfeeding Educator (CBE). Margaret dives into the training, scope of practice, and importance of accreditation for each credential, providing clarity on what families and professionals can expect from each role.

Whether you're a seasoned IBCLC, a lactation student, or simply curious about these credentials, this episode offers a detailed breakdown to help you understand the vital distinctions in lactation care.

• Comprehensive training: 95 hours of lactation-specific education, health science coursework, and 300–1,000 clinical hours.
• Accredited by the International Board of Lactation Consultant Examiners (IBLCE) and recognized worldwide.
• Broad scope of practice includes clinical assessments, individualized feeding plans, and collaboration with healthcare teams.

• Minimum of 95 hours of training based on WHO/UNICEF guidelines.
• Certified by the Academy of Lactation Policy and Practice (ALPP).
• Focuses on counseling and addressing common breastfeeding concerns but refers complex cases to IBCLCs.

• Basic breastfeeding education and support.
• Limited scope of practice—ideal for non-clinical roles like peer support or community education.
• Not accredited by NCCA and less likely to be recognized by insurers.

• Only IBCLC and CLC are accredited by recognized organizations, ensuring consistency, quality, and ethical standards in lactation care.
• Accreditation impacts insurance reimbursement, with IBCLCs more widely covered.

• Provide emotional and informational support based on lived experiences.
• Work in community settings, focusing on encouragement and basic breastfeeding guidance.
• Non-clinical role with referrals to professionals for complex issues.

• Advocate for Accreditation: Educate families about the importance of choosing providers with recognized credentials like IBCLCs or CLCs.
• Collaborate with Others: Understand the roles of peer counselors and support persons to create a comprehensive care network.
• Practice Within Scope: Ensure ethical care by recognizing the limits of your credential.

Understanding the differences between lactation credentials ensures that families receive the right level of care and that professionals provide support ethically. By advocating for accredited certifications and collaboration within the lactation care team, we can enhance breastfeeding outcomes and build trust within our communities.

If you found this episode helpful, subscribe to The IBCLC Mentor Podcast and leave a review. Let’s keep advancing the field of lactation care together!

Have questions or suggestions for future episodes? Reach out at [insert website link] or connect with me on social media:

• Instagram: @margaretsalty
• Facebook: Margaret Salty's IBCLC Community

• Hosted by: Margaret Salty
• Music by: The Magnifiers, "My Time Traveling Machine"

#IBCLC #LactationConsultant #LactationCredentials #BreastfeedingSupport #LactationMentor #IBCLCMentorPodcast #EvidenceBasedPractice

In this episode of The IBCLC Mentor Podcast, Margaret Salty dives into the latest research articles from her Google Scholar alerts, exploring how recent findings can enhance the practice of IBCLCs. Margaret breaks down complex research into actionable strategies for lactation consultants, focusing on how these insights can improve breastfeeding outcomes. Whether you're a seasoned IBCLC or just starting your journey, these episodes will keep you at the forefront of evidence-based lactation care.

Key Points Covered:

1. Effect of an Oral Stimulation Protocol on Breastfeeding Among Preterm Infants: A Randomized Controlled Trial
2. Margaret reviews this study by Jayapradha et al. (2024), which examines how a modified oral stimulation protocol significantly improves exclusive breastfeeding rates and feeding skills in preterm infants. She discusses the implications for NICU practices and actionable insights for empowering families through hands-on support.
3. Reference:
4. Jayapradha, G., Venkatesh, L., Amboiram, P., & Balasubramanium, R. K. (2024). Effect of an oral stimulation protocol on breastfeeding among preterm infants: A randomized controlled trial. Archives of Disease in Childhood – Fetal and Neonatal Edition. https://doi.org/10.1136/archdischild-2024-327494
5. Implementing a Colostrum-Kit Reduces the Time to First Colostrum for Neonates Admitted to the NICU
6. This study by Hellström et al. (2024) explores how introducing a colostrum-kit in NICUs can reduce the time to first colostrum for neonates, significantly improving outcomes for preterm and term infants. Margaret discusses the importance of empowering parents and the potential for widespread adoption of this low-cost intervention.
7. Reference:
8. Hellström, S., Linden, K., Sengpiel, V., & Elfvin, A. (2024). Implementing a colostrum-kit reduces the time to first colostrum for neonates admitted to the NICU: A retrospective observational study. International Breastfeeding Journal, 19(77). https://doi.org/10.1186/s13006-024-00682-5
9. The Association Between Maternal Stress and Human Milk Concentrations of Cortisol and Prolactin
10. Margaret examines this study by Matyas et al. (2024), which highlights how maternal stress affects hormonal composition in breast milk, with implications for infant development. She provides actionable strategies for reducing stress to optimize milk production and maternal well-being.
11. Reference:
12. Matyas, M., et al. (2024). The association between maternal stress and human milk concentrations of cortisol and prolactin. Scientific Reports, 14(28115). https://doi.org/10.1038/s41598-024-75307-2

Practical Applications for IBCLCs:

• Support Preterm Infants: Advocate for oral stimulation techniques and colostrum-kit implementation in NICUs.
• Empower Mothers: Provide stress management strategies to improve milk production and family outcomes.
• Promote Evidence-Based Practices: Share these research findings with healthcare teams to enhance breastfeeding support.

Conclusion:

Staying updated with the latest research is essential for providing the best care as an IBCLC. By integrating evidence-based strategies, you can enhance breastfeeding support and outcomes. Tune in each week as we explore more insights from the world of lactation science.

If you found this episode helpful, please subscribe to The IBCLC Mentor Podcast and leave a review!

Connect with Me:

Have questions or suggestions for future episodes? Reach out at [insert website link] or connect with me on social media:

• Instagram: @margaretsalty
• Facebook: Margaret Salty's IBCLC Community

Credits:

Hosted by: Margaret Salty

Music by: The Magnifiers, "My Time Traveling Machine"

Hashtags and Keywords:

#IBCLC #LactationConsultant #BreastfeedingResearch #LactationMentor #IBCLCMentorPodcast #EvidenceBasedPractice

In this episode of The IBCLC Mentor Podcast, Margaret Salty sits down with Dr. Karen Federici, an experienced Breastfeeding Medicine Physician, to explore her journey, her work, and her advice for IBCLCs and aspiring breastfeeding medicine professionals. Dr. Federici shares insights into her career path, explains what breastfeeding medicine entails, and provides practical guidance for IBCLCs collaborating with physicians in this field. This conversation is packed with valuable tips and strategies to enhance your understanding of breastfeeding medicine and how it supports lactation care.

https://www.familyfirstdocs.com/

https://www.bfmed.org/find-a-physician#/

https://nabblm.org/for-patients/

https://lacted.org/providers-world-lactation-map/

Key Points Covered:

1. Where Are You Located and What Work Are You Currently Doing?
2. Dr. Federici introduces herself, sharing details about her location, her medical practice, and her current work in the field of breastfeeding medicine.
3. What Brought You to the Field of Medicine and Lactation?
4. Dr. Federici reflects on her journey into medicine, what inspired her to specialize in breastfeeding medicine, and her passion for supporting breastfeeding families.
5. What Is a Breastfeeding Medicine Physician and How Can You Find One?
6. Dr. Federici breaks down the role of a breastfeeding medicine physician, how they collaborate with lactation consultants, and the impact they have on breastfeeding families. She also provides advice for IBCLCs on fostering strong partnerships with these specialists and offers tips for locating breastfeeding medicine physicians across the country.
7. Common Cases and Treatment Approaches in Breastfeeding Medicine:
8. Dr. Federici discusses the types of cases she sees most frequently, including low milk supply, latch issues, infections, and more. She explains the treatment plans and how they complement lactation care provided by IBCLCs.
9. Advice for Those Considering a Career in Breastfeeding Medicine:
10. Dr. Federici shares her wisdom for anyone interested in pursuing this specialized field, emphasizing the importance of passion, education, and interdisciplinary collaboration.

Conclusion:

Dr. Karen Federici's expertise and dedication to breastfeeding medicine provide a valuable perspective for IBCLCs and lactation professionals looking to enhance their practice. Whether you're a student, a new IBCLC, or an experienced consultant, this episode offers actionable advice and inspiration to strengthen your care for breastfeeding families.

If you found this episode helpful, please subscribe to The IBCLC Mentor Podcast and leave a review. Don’t forget to share this episode with your colleagues and fellow IBCLCs!

Connect with Me:

Have questions or suggestions for future episodes? Reach out to Margaret at [insert website link] or connect with me on social media:

• Instagram: @margaretsalty
• Facebook: Margaret Salty’s IBCLC Community

Credits:

Hosted by: Margaret Salty

Guest: Dr. Karen Federici

Music by: The Magnifiers, "My Time Traveling Machine"

Hashtags and Keywords:

#IBCLC #BreastfeedingMedicine #LactationConsultant #CollaborativeCare #BreastfeedingSupport #IBCLCMentorPodcast #LactationMentor

In this episode of The IBCLC Mentor Podcast, Margaret Salty dives into the latest research articles from her Google Scholar alerts, exploring how recent findings can enhance the practice of IBCLCs. Each week, Margaret brings you key insights from the latest studies, breaking down complex research into actionable strategies for lactation consultants. Whether you're a seasoned IBCLC or just starting your journey, these episodes will keep you at the forefront of evidence-based lactation care.

Be sure to check out the blog post on how to stay up-to-date with current research here: Research Updates

The Role of Baby-Friendly Designated Hospitals in Breastfeeding Initiation Across Racial/Ethnic Groups in Florida

Margaret reviews this study by Lebron et al. (2024), which examines how Baby-Friendly Hospital (BFH) designation impacts breastfeeding initiation across racial and ethnic groups in Florida. The study reveals significant disparities, with non-Hispanic Black mothers less likely to initiate breastfeeding even at BFH facilities. Margaret discusses the importance of advocating for culturally competent practices within BFH to support all families effectively.

Reference: Lebron, C. N., Larson, M., Chavez, J., & Parra, A. (2024). The role of Baby-Friendly designated hospitals in breastfeeding initiation across racial/ethnic groups in Florida. Maternal and Child Health Journal. https://doi.org/10.1007/s10995-024-04011-4

A Narrative Review of Strategies to Optimize Breastfeeding Among Mothers of Twins

This comprehensive review by Bhardwaj & Vijayan Smitha (2024) addresses the unique challenges of breastfeeding twins. Margaret explores strategies such as tandem feeding techniques, community support, and NICU guidance for preterm twins, which are essential for helping mothers maintain exclusive breastfeeding.

Reference: Bhardwaj, G., & Vijayan Smitha, M. (2024). A narrative review of strategies to optimize breastfeeding among mothers of twins. Cureus, 16(10), e72792. https://doi.org/10.7759/cureus.72792

Retrospective Analysis of Volumes of Manually Expressed Colostrum Among Healthy Postnatal Mothers in South India

Margaret examines Nyamagoudar et al.’s (2024) study on colostrum volume in the first three days postpartum, which dispels common misconceptions about low milk supply. She explains how this research emphasizes patience and the importance of hands-on lactation support in the early days.

Reference: Nyamagoudar, A. H., Kannur, N. S., Chavan, V., & Kulkarni, V. (2024). Retrospective analysis of volumes of manually expressed colostrum among healthy postnatal mothers at a tertiary care referral unit in South India: Not enough milk or not enough patience? BMJ Paediatrics Open, 8, e002622. https://doi.org/10.1136/bmjpo-2024-002622

• Promote Cultural Competency: Encourage culturally adapted support in BFH to better serve diverse communities.
• Tailor Support for Twins: Use specific breastfeeding techniques and resources for twin mothers to improve outcomes.
• Reassure on Colostrum Sufficiency: Educate mothers on the typical progression of colostrum volume to counteract “not enough milk” concerns.

Staying updated with the latest research is essential for providing the best care as an IBCLC. By integrating evidence-based strategies, you can enhance breastfeeding support and outcomes. Tune in each week as we explore more insights from the world of lactation science.

If you found this episode helpful, be sure to subscribe to The IBCLC Mentor Podcast and leave a review!

Have questions or want to suggest a topic?

Reach out at margaretsalty.com or connect on social media:

Instagram: @margaretsalty

Facebook: Margaret Salty's Group

Credits:

Hosted by: Margaret Salty

Music by: The Magnifiers, "My Time Traveling Machine"

Hashtags and Keywords:

#IBCLC #LactationConsultant #BreastfeedingResearch #LactationMentor #IBCLCMentorPodcast #EvidenceBasedPractice

In this episode of The IBCLC Mentor Podcast, Margaret Salty sits down with Dr. Alison Hazelbaker, a renowned expert in the field of lactation and creator of the Hazelbaker Assessment Tool for Lingual Frenulum Function (HATLFF). Dr. Hazelbaker shares insights into her comprehensive tool for assessing frenulum function, the science behind it, and the evidence-based approach that underpins her work. Together, they also delve into her training titled "Nothing New Under the Sun?: A 'Tethered Oral Tissues' Literature Review," exploring the latest research on tethered oral tissues (TOTs) and their impact on breastfeeding.

https://hazelbakerinstitute.com/

https://spiritofhealingllc.com/

Key Points Covered:

1. Origins of the Hazelbaker Assessment Tool for Lingual Frenulum Function (HATLFF)
2. Dr. Hazelbaker explains the development of her assessment tool, its purpose, and why a comprehensive approach to evaluating frenulum function is essential for lactation consultants. She discusses how her tool differs from other assessments and why it remains a gold standard in the field.
3. Unpacking the "Tethered Oral Tissues" Literature Review
4. In this segment, Dr. Hazelbaker provides an overview of her training, "Nothing New Under the Sun?: A 'Tethered Oral Tissues' Literature Review." She highlights the key findings from her review of the literature on TOTs, challenging common misconceptions and shedding light on evidence-based practices.
5. The Evidence Behind Frenulum Assessments and Interventions
6. Margaret and Dr. Hazelbaker dive into the current evidence regarding frenulum assessments, discussing when interventions may be necessary and the role of IBCLCs in providing thorough assessments before recommending procedures.
7. Advice for IBCLCs on Addressing TOTs in Practice
8. Dr. Hazelbaker shares her recommendations for IBCLCs navigating the complex landscape of tethered oral tissues. She emphasizes the importance of critical thinking, staying informed on the latest research, and using evidence-based tools like the HATLFF to guide decision-making.

Conclusion:

Dr. Alison Hazelbaker’s expertise and evidence-based approach to assessing tethered oral tissues are invaluable for IBCLCs seeking to provide comprehensive care. This episode provides listeners with a deeper understanding of frenulum function, TOTs, and how to critically evaluate the need for interventions. Tune in next week for more expert insights and practical strategies for supporting breastfeeding families.

If you found this episode helpful, please subscribe to The IBCLC Mentor Podcast and leave a review.

Connect with Me:

Have questions or want to suggest a topic? Reach out to Margaret at margaretsalty.com or connect on social media:

• Instagram: @margaretsalty
• Facebook: Margaret Salty’s IBCLC Community

Don't forget to share this episode with fellow IBCLCs or students interested in evidence-based approaches to managing frenulum function and TOTs.

Credits:

• Hosted by: Margaret Salty
• Guest: Dr. Alison Hazelbaker
• Music by: The Magnifiers, "My Time Traveling Machine"

Hashtags and Keywords:

#IBCLC #LactationConsultant #TetheredOralTissues #FrenulumAssessment #HazelbakerTool #BreastfeedingSupport #LactationMentor #IBCLCMentorPodcast

In this episode of The IBCLC Mentor Podcast, Margaret Salty dives into the latest research articles from her Google Scholar alerts, exploring how recent findings can enhance the practice of IBCLCs. Each week, Margaret brings you key insights from the latest studies, breaking down complex research into actionable strategies for lactation consultants. Whether you're a seasoned IBCLC or just starting your journey, these episodes will keep you at the forefront of evidence-based lactation care.

Be sure to check out the blog post on how to stay up-to-date with current research here: Research Updates

Key Points Covered:

1. Effect of Rooming-In Kangaroo Mother Care on Breastfeeding and Behavioral Status of Full-Term Newborns
2. Margaret reviews this study by Ying et al. (2024), which investigates how rooming-in kangaroo mother care (KMC) impacts breastfeeding initiation and newborn behavioral outcomes. The research finds that newborns who experience KMC have better breastfeeding rates and exhibit calmer, more organized behavior, underscoring the value of skin-to-skin contact immediately after birth for breastfeeding success.
3. Reference: Ying, Y., et al. (2024). Effect of rooming-in kangaroo mother care on breastfeeding and behavioral status of full-term newborns. Journal of Obstetrics and Gynaecology Research. https://doi.org/10.1111/jog.16132
4. Breastfeeding Experiences of Mothers of Children with Down Syndrome
5. This qualitative study by Özsavran & Kuzlu Ayyıldız (2024) delves into the unique challenges and experiences of mothers breastfeeding children with Down syndrome. Margaret discusses the findings, which highlight the importance of specialized breastfeeding support for these mothers to improve breastfeeding success and infant outcomes.
6. Reference: Özsavran, M., & Kuzlu Ayyıldız, T. (2024). Breastfeeding experiences of mothers of children with Down syndrome: A qualitative study. Breastfeeding Medicine. https://doi.org/10.1089/bfm.2024.0278
7. Empowering Global Health Systems to Protect, Promote, and Support Optimal Breastfeeding
8. Margaret examines Zhu et al.'s (2024) comprehensive analysis, which addresses the role of health systems in supporting breastfeeding globally. This article emphasizes the need for structural changes, including policy support and resource allocation, to foster optimal breastfeeding practices worldwide.
9. Reference: Zhu, D. T., et al. (2024). Empowering global health systems to protect, promote, and support optimal breastfeeding. Maternal & Child Nutrition. https://doi.org/10.1111/mcn.13753

Practical Applications for IBCLCs:

Margaret synthesizes the research findings into practical tips for IBCLCs, including:

• Promoting Kangaroo Mother Care: Advocate for rooming-in KMC for full-term newborns to support breastfeeding and improve newborn behavior.
• Specialized Support for Mothers of Children with Down Syndrome: Offer tailored support to address the unique breastfeeding challenges these mothers face.
• Advocating for Health System Changes: Encourage systemic support for breastfeeding through policy and resource distribution to ensure global breastfeeding success.

Conclusion:

Staying updated with the latest research is essential for providing the best care as an IBCLC. By integrating evidence-based strategies, you can enhance breastfeeding support and outcomes. Tune in each week as we explore more insights from the world of lactation science.

References:

1. Ying, Y., et al. (2024). Effect of rooming-in kangaroo mother care on breastfeeding and behavioral status of full-term newborns. Journal of Obstetrics and Gynaecology Research. https://doi.org/10.1111/jog.16132
2. Özsavran, M., & Kuzlu Ayyıldız, T. (2024). Breastfeeding experiences of mothers of children with Down syndrome: A qualitative study. Breastfeeding Medicine. https://doi.org/10.1089/bfm.2024.0278
3. Zhu, D. T., et al. (2024). Empowering global health systems to protect, promote, and support optimal breastfeeding. Maternal & Child Nutrition. https://doi.org/10.1111/mcn.13753

If you found this episode helpful, be sure to subscribe to The IBCLC Mentor Podcast and leave a review!

Have questions or want to suggest a topic?

Reach out at margaretsalty.com or connect on social media:

• Instagram: @margaretsalty
• Facebook: Margaret Salty's Group

Credits:

• Hosted by: Margaret Salty
• Music by: The Magnifiers, "My Time Traveling Machine"

Hashtags and Keywords:

#IBCLC #LactationConsultant #BreastfeedingResearch #LactationMentor #IBCLCMentorPodcast #EvidenceBasedPractice

In this episode of The IBCLC Mentor Podcast, Margaret Salty sits down with Lisa Myers, founder of Ceres Chill, to discuss her journey from being a working mom to creating an innovative solution for pumping mothers. Lisa shares the inspiring story behind Ceres Chill and how her own challenges with pumping and milk storage led her to develop a product that makes life easier for breastfeeding parents. Together, they explore the importance of supporting working mothers, innovative solutions for milk storage, and how Ceres Chill is revolutionizing the way parents manage breast milk on the go.

Visit Lisa’s website: cereschill.com

Key Points Covered:

1. Lisa Myers’ Journey to Creating Ceres Chill
2. Lisa opens up about her personal experiences as a working mom trying to balance breastfeeding, pumping, and a demanding job. She shares how these challenges inspired her to create Ceres Chill, a game-changing milk storage solution for on-the-go parents.
3. The Innovation Behind Ceres Chill
4. In this segment, Margaret and Lisa delve into the unique features of the Ceres Chill system, how it addresses common struggles faced by pumping mothers, and the research and development that went into creating a safe, convenient, and sustainable product.
5. Empowering Working Parents with Better Tools
6. Lisa discusses the broader mission of Ceres Chill, emphasizing the importance of supporting working mothers and normalizing the challenges they face. She shares her vision for a world where breastfeeding parents have the resources and products they need to thrive, both at work and at home.
7. Advice for Aspiring IBCLCs and Entrepreneurs
8. Lisa offers insights for IBCLCs on how to better support pumping parents and advice for entrepreneurs looking to bring their own ideas to life. She highlights the value of innovation, perseverance, and staying connected to the community you serve.

Conclusion:

Lisa Myers’ story is a powerful example of how personal challenges can lead to meaningful innovations that support breastfeeding families. Her work with Ceres Chill is making a difference in the lives of parents everywhere, and her insights are invaluable for IBCLCs who support pumping mothers. Tune in next week for more inspiring stories, expert insights, and practical tips for thriving as an IBCLC.

If you found this episode helpful, please subscribe to The IBCLC Mentor Podcast and leave a review.

Connect with Me:

Have questions or want to suggest a topic? Reach out to Margaret at margaretsalty.com or connect on social media:

• Instagram: @margaretsalty
• Facebook: Margaret Salty’s IBCLC Community

Don't forget to share this episode with fellow IBCLCs or students who are interested in innovative tools for supporting breastfeeding parents!

Credits:

• Hosted by: Margaret Salty
• Guest: Lisa Myers
• Music by: The Magnifiers, "My Time Traveling Machine"

Hashtags and Keywords:

#IBCLC #LactationConsultant #BreastfeedingSupport #CeresChill #PumpingMoms #LactationMentor #IBCLCMentorPodcast #InnovationInLactation

In this episode of The IBCLC Mentor Podcast, Margaret Salty dives into the latest research articles from her Google Scholar alerts, exploring how recent findings can enhance the practice of IBCLCs. Each week, Margaret brings you key insights from the latest studies, breaking down complex research into actionable strategies for lactation consultants. Whether you're a seasoned IBCLC or just starting your journey, these episodes will keep you at the forefront of evidence-based lactation care.

Be sure to check out the blog post on how to stay up-to-date with current research here: Research Updates

Margaret reviews a comprehensive study that explores how maternal factors, including health status, diet, and allergen intake, impact the compounds in breast milk that shape an infant's immune system and reduce the risk of food allergies. The research suggests that breastfeeding may limit food allergy risks by promoting gut microbiota and immune development. However, the efficacy of breastfeeding as a prevention strategy for food allergies varies based on maternal factors.

Reference: Wu, Y., et al. (2024). How maternal factors shape the immune system of breastfed infants to alleviate food allergy: A systematic and updated review. Immunology. https://doi.org/10.1111/imm.13864​:contentReference[oaicite:0]{index=0}

This study examines how a Mediterranean diet during lactation influences infant growth patterns. Margaret explains how higher maternal adherence to the Mediterranean diet, particularly fruit and fish intake, is associated with lower infant skinfold thickness, a marker of adiposity. The findings highlight the potential for dietary interventions to influence infant health outcomes through breastfeeding.

Reference: Grabowski, A., et al. (2024). Maternal Mediterranean diet during lactation and infant growth. Breastfeeding Medicine. https://doi.org/10.1089/bfm.2024.0133​:contentReference[oaicite:1]{index=1}

Margaret discusses a follow-up study on very preterm infants that found those who were fed human milk had significantly higher bone mineral density (BMD) at six years of age compared to those fed formula. The study underscores the long-term benefits of human milk on bone development in preterm infants, reinforcing the importance of breastfeeding support for this vulnerable population.

Reference: Toftlund, L. H., et al. (2024). Higher bone mineral density at six years of age in very preterm born infants fed human milk compared to formula: A follow-up of an RCT. Journal of Pediatrics. https://doi.org/10.21203/rs.3.rs-4938117/v1​:contentReference[oaicite:2]{index=2}

Margaret synthesizes the research findings into practical tips for IBCLCs, including:

• Supporting Maternal Nutrition: Counsel breastfeeding mothers on the benefits of a Mediterranean diet to support healthy infant growth and lower obesity risk.
• Food Allergy Prevention: Educate mothers on how their diet and health status can shape breast milk's role in preventing food allergies.
• Encouraging Breastfeeding for Preterm Infants: Highlight the long-term benefits of human milk for preterm infants, particularly in promoting better bone health.

Staying updated with the latest research is essential for providing the best care as an IBCLC. By integrating evidence-based interventions and educational strategies, you can directly enhance breastfeeding success and support the families you work with more effectively. Be sure to tune in each week as we continue to explore the latest insights from the world of lactation science.

References:

• Wu, Y., et al. (2024). How maternal factors shape the immune system of breastfed infants to alleviate food allergy: A systematic and updated review. Immunology. https://doi.org/10.1111/imm.13864
• Grabowski, A., et al. (2024). Maternal Mediterranean diet during lactation and infant growth. Breastfeeding Medicine. https://doi.org/10.1089/bfm.2024.0133
• Toftlund, L. H., et al. (2024). Higher bone mineral density at six years of age in very preterm born infants fed human milk compared to formula: A follow-up of an RCT. Journal of Pediatrics. https://doi.org/10.21203/rs.3.rs-4938117/v1

If you found this episode helpful, be sure to subscribe to The IBCLC Mentor Podcast and leave a review!

Have questions or want to suggest a topic?

Reach out to me at margaretsalty.com or connect with me on social media:

• Instagram: @margaretsalty
• Facebook: Margaret Salty's Group

Credits:

Hosted by: Margaret Salty

Music by: The Magnifiers, "My Time Traveling Machine"

Hashtags and Keywords:

#IBCLC #LactationConsultant #BreastfeedingResearch #LactationMentor #IBCLCMentorPodcast #EvidenceBasedPractice

In this episode of The IBCLC Mentor Podcast, Margaret Salty sits down with fellow IBCLC Katie Prezas, founder of Empowering Lactation. Katie shares her journey into lactation consulting, the motivations behind her work, and the mission of her private practice, Empowering Lactation. Together, they discuss how Katie’s approach to breastfeeding support empowers families, addressing common challenges with empathy and practical solutions. Katie also provides valuable insights on balancing a private practice, offering listeners guidance on creating a supportive, client-centered environment.

Visit Katie’s website: empoweringlactation.com

Key Points Covered:

1. Katie Prezas’ Path to Lactation Consulting
2. Katie shares the experiences and inspiration that led her to become an IBCLC and start her own practice. She discusses her professional background, how she developed her approach to care, and the values that guide Empowering Lactation.
3. Empowering Families Through Lactation Support
4. In this segment, Katie walks through a common breastfeeding scenario she frequently addresses in her practice. She explains her methods for assessing and supporting families, highlighting strategies to overcome common hurdles and how to provide empowering, client-centered care.
5. Insights on Running a Private Practice
6. Katie shares her tips on managing a private practice, from structuring consultations to balancing client care with business demands. She offers practical advice for IBCLCs looking to establish or grow their own practices, emphasizing the importance of flexibility, empathy, and ongoing education.

Conclusion:

Katie Prezas’ work exemplifies how compassion and expertise can transform breastfeeding support. Her journey from lactation consultant to business owner serves as an inspiring roadmap for IBCLCs looking to create meaningful change through private practice. Tune in next week for more case reviews, expert insights, and practical strategies for thriving as an IBCLC.

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Connect with Me:

Have questions or want to suggest a topic? Reach out to Margaret at margaretsalty.com or connect on social media:

• Instagram: @margaretsalty
• Facebook: Margaret Salty’s IBCLC Community

Don't forget to share this episode with fellow IBCLCs or students who are exploring their own paths to becoming lactation consultants!

Credits:

• Hosted by: Margaret Salty
• Guest: Katie Prezas
• Music by: The Magnifiers, "My Time Traveling Machine"

Hashtags and Keywords:

#IBCLC #LactationConsultant #LactationMentor #IBCLCMentorPodcast #EmpoweringLactation #PrivatePractice #BreastfeedingSupport