November 10, 2005

Using Breastmilk as an Indicator

In an effort to determine the amount of environmental pollutants that accumulate in the human body, scientists often test samples of breastmilk as an indicator.  Unfortunately, the resulting studies associate breastmilk with chemical contamination and can give the misleading impression that breastfeeding is dangerous.  In actuality, the nutrients and immunology of breastmilk give infants much needed protection from the environmental pollutants to which they will be exposed throughout their lives. 

Click here for the IBFAN news brief on the issue.