How human milk cortisol levels change throughout the day and affect infant health
Circadian Rhythms in Human Milk Cortisol: An Examination of Maternal and Environmental Regulators
This study looks at how the hormone cortisol in breast milk changes throughout the day and how these changes might affect babies' sleep and wake patterns, helping us find ways to support healthier development for breastfeeding infants.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R15 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of California, Merced NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Merced, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10653545 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates how the levels of cortisol in human milk vary throughout the day and how these changes may influence the development of infants' circadian rhythms. It aims to understand the maternal and environmental factors that can disrupt these natural rhythms, which are crucial for infant health. By examining the hormonal composition of milk and its impact on infants, the study seeks to identify potential interventions that could improve health outcomes for breastfeeding infants. The research will involve collecting and analyzing milk samples from breastfeeding mothers at different times of the day.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for participation include breastfeeding mothers who are interested in understanding how their milk may affect their infant's health.
Not a fit: Patients who are not breastfeeding or whose infants are not experiencing health issues related to circadian rhythms may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved health outcomes for infants by optimizing breastfeeding practices based on the timing of milk cortisol levels.
How similar studies have performed: While the specific focus on milk cortisol and its circadian variation is relatively novel, previous research has shown that circadian rhythms play a significant role in health, suggesting potential for impactful findings.
Where this research is happening
Merced, United States
- University of California, Merced — Merced, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Hahn, Jennifer — University of California, Merced
- Study coordinator: Hahn, Jennifer
About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.