from LLLI's BREASTFEEDING ABSTRACTS (Feb 1996, Vol 15, No. 3, p. 19):
Grandjean P, Weihe P, and White RF. Milestone Development in infants
exposed to methylmercury from human milk. Neuro Toxicology 1995;
16:27-34.
note that I am quoting one sentence only, and it would be better to ead
the entire abstract, best to go to the original article.
"This study suggests that breastfeeding is associated with an advantage
with regard to developmental milestone attainment in infants, despite
transfer of methylmercury via breastmilk."
The next is from an abstract from a search at the medical library:
Oskarsson A, Palminger HI, Sundberg J. Exposure to toxic elements via
breast milk. Analyst 120(3):765-70, 1995, March.
* measured and compared mercury levels in blood and milk of Swedish
women in relation to exposure to fish (methylmercury) and amalgam
(inorganic mercury)
"* "Low levels were found; the mean levels were .6ng g-1 in milk and
2.3ng g-1 in blood. there was a statistically significant correllation
between mercury levels in blood and milk, showing that milk levels were
approximately 30% of the levels in blood"
* "Inorganic mercury from amalgam was reflected in blood and milk
mercury levels. Recent exposure to methylmercury from consumption of
fish was reflected in mercury levels in blood but not in milk.
* In an experimental model for rats and mice, "Transfer of mercury from
plasma to milk was found to be higher in dams exposed to inorganic
mercury ...In contrast, the uptake of mercury from milk was higher in
the sucklings of dams exposed to methylmercury."
As always, the test should be the known benefits of breastfeeding
outweigh theoretical but unproven risks.
Hope this is helpful.
Catherine Mallon
Sherwood Park, Alberta, Canada.
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