In this episode of Behind the Latch, 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. A Landscape Analysis of Investors in the Global Breast Milk Substitute Industry to Target for Advocacy

Margaret reviews a groundbreaking study that identifies the top investors in the global breast milk substitute (BMS) industry, such as BlackRock and Vanguard. The research highlights how engaging with these investors could promote better compliance with the International Code of Marketing of Breast Milk Substitutes. Public health advocates are urged to consider working with investors to influence corporate governance, potentially improving public health by increasing breastfeeding rates.

Reference: Wood, B., et al. (2024). A landscape analysis of investors in the global breast milk substitute industry to target for advocacy. Maternal & Child Nutrition. https://doi.org/10.1111/mcn.13721​:contentReference[oaicite:0]{index=0}

2. Role of the Biological Active Components of Human Milk on Long-Term Growth and Neurodevelopmental Outcome

Margaret delves into an important review that explores how the bioactive components of human milk, such as hormones and growth factors, contribute to long-term growth and neurodevelopmental outcomes in infants. The review highlights the unique composition of human milk and how it promotes cognitive development and protects against obesity in later life. This research emphasizes the importance of breastfeeding, particularly for preterm infants.

Reference: Peila, C., Riboldi, L., & Coscia, A. (2024). Role of the biological active components of human milk on long-term growth and neurodevelopmental outcome. Italian Journal of Pediatrics. https://doi.org/10.1186/s13052-024-01773-z​:contentReference[oaicite:1]{index=1}

3. The Influence of Sociodemographic Factors on the Success of Exclusive Breastfeeding: A Narrative Review

This study analyzes how factors like maternal education, socioeconomic status, and maternal occupation influence exclusive breastfeeding rates. The findings show that lower maternal education and income levels are associated with lower rates of exclusive breastfeeding, emphasizing the need for targeted interventions in disadvantaged populations. Margaret highlights how this evidence can help IBCLCs tailor their support strategies based on sociocultural factors.

Reference: Sari, Q. D. (2024). The influence of sociodemographic factors on the success of exclusive breastfeeding: A narrative review. Jurnal Eduhealth, 15(4), 66-72. https://doi.org/10.54209/eduhealth.v15i04​:contentReference[oaicite:2]{index=2}

Practical Application for IBCLCs:

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

• Engaging with Advocacy Efforts: Leverage research on investors in the BMS industry to advocate for stronger regulatory compliance, ensuring better protection for breastfeeding practices.
• Educating Parents on Human Milk Benefits: Emphasize the importance of human milk's bioactive components in consultations, particularly for preterm and high-risk infants, to promote long-term health outcomes.
• Addressing Sociodemographic Barriers: Adapt your support approach based on the socioeconomic and educational background of the families you work with, ensuring culturally sensitive care and education.

Conclusion:

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:

• Wood, B., et al. (2024). A landscape analysis of investors in the global breast milk substitute industry to target for advocacy. Maternal & Child Nutrition. https://doi.org/10.1111/mcn.13721
• Peila, C., Riboldi, L., & Coscia, A. (2024). Role of the biological active components of human milk on long-term growth and neurodevelopmental outcome. Italian Journal of Pediatrics. https://doi.org/10.1186/s13052-024-01773-z
• Sari, Q. D. (2024). The influence of sociodemographic factors on the success of exclusive breastfeeding: A narrative review. Jurnal Eduhealth, 15(4), 66-72. https://doi.org/10.54209/eduhealth.v15i04

If you found this episode helpful, be sure to subscribe to Behind the Latch 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

Credits:

Hosted by: Margaret Salty

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

Hashtags and Keywords:

#IBCLC #LactationConsultant #BreastfeedingResearch #LactationMentor #EvidenceBasedPractice