Determination of In-Vitro Antibacterial Effects of Breast Milk

Abstract

Background: Breast milk undisputedly is the ideal baby food.
It provides a lot of protective functions for the baby as well complete nutrition. It contains fat, proteins carbohydrates, vitamins and minerals. There have been various claims that it cures ailments. The study was therefore designed to substantiate those claims.
Objective: To determine the in vitro antibacterial effects of breast
milk.
Methodology: Expressed breast milk of nursing mothers who were not on antibiotics was challenged with 0.5 McFarland's standard of overnight cultures of common bacteria that cause infections. The mixture was sub cultured at 30 minutes, 1 hour and lastly 2 hour intervals. The plates were read the following day for evidence of growth.
Result: Overnight incubation yielded growth of the various organisms that were inoculated.
Conclusion: Breast milk does not have in vitro antibacterial effect although it may possess same in vivo with the synergistic effect of other substances in the body.

Niger Med J. Vol. 50, No. 3, July – Sept., 2009: 58 – 60.

Key words: in vitro, antibacterial effects, breast milk