What are some hormonal influences of breastfeeding on infants?

Breastfeeding has a significant impact on the hormonal environment of infants, specifically leading to higher levels of insulin and leptin. Insulin is a critical hormone for glucose metabolism and energy regulation, while leptin is involved in regulating body weight by signaling satiety to the brain.

Breast milk contains various bioactive components that help modulate the infant's hormonal responses. For example, the presence of certain proteins and fats in breast milk can stimulate the secretion of insulin, essential for the infant’s metabolic development. Higher leptin levels from breastfeeding can assist in establishing healthy weight and regulating appetite over time.

This response supports the development of an optimal metabolic profile in infants, which is crucial for growth, development, and the prevention of obesity later in life. Thus, the assertion that breastfeeding contributes to higher insulin and leptin levels accurately reflects the beneficial hormonal influences of breastfeeding on infants.