Investigating the Effectiveness of Nutritional Information Resources for Milk Donors

What this Trial Is About

Researchers are studying the nutritional content of breast milk from donors, focusing on the levels of important omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids, docosahexaenoic acid DHA and arachidonic acid. These nutrients are essential for brain development and immune function, but donor milk in the U.K. has been found to have low levels. The study aims to develop and test nutritional information resources to help milk donors improve the quality of their milk, with potential benefits for preterm infants who receive donor milk. This open-label study lasts eight weeks and involves donors from the Countess of Chester Hospital milk bank. Participants complete an initial dietary questionnaire, give blood and breast milk samples, and receive nutritional resources. They are randomly assigned to either receive feedback on their milk DHA levels along with the resources or just the resources. Milk samples are collected at specified weeks and analyzed for fatty acid content. The study also collects detailed diet information through photo diaries submitted via a mobile app. Participants will have baseline and endpoint visits for sample collection, questionnaires, and consultations. Milk and blood samples are analyzed to measure omega-3 fatty acid levels. The study tracks changes in diet and milk DHA content to evaluate the resources effectiveness. Data collection includes dietary photos and feedback on milk DHA for some participants. The study plans to recruit 60 donors over eight months, with ongoing sample storage for future research.

Effectiveness of Nutritional Resources for Milk Donors