What is the relationship between lactose and brain growth in infants?

Lactose plays a vital role in brain development primarily by serving as a source of energy for brain cells. Glucose is a key component derived from the breakdown of lactose, and the brain consumes a significant amount of glucose to function correctly. This energy is crucial during the rapid growth and development phases in infancy when the brain is undergoing substantial changes and forming new neural connections.

Research has shown that lactose, along with other components in human milk, supports the formation of important glycoproteins and glycolipids, which are essential for building the myelin sheath around nerves and for cell signaling in the brain. This energy support enhances cognitive functions and overall brain development, acting as a foundation for learning and memory as the infant grows.

Understanding that lactose is crucial for providing energy helps highlight its importance in infant nutrition, especially when considering the context of the Baby-Friendly Hospital Initiative, which promotes breastfeeding and the provision of human milk as the optimal source of nutrition for infants.