Nicotine in Breast Milk Shortens Baby's Naptime

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Researchers noted that the infants consumed the same amount of breast milk during each observation period, suggesting that they accepted the tobacco flavoring of the milk.

Previous research by Mennella's team had shown that nicotine levels peak in breast milk 30 minutes to 60 minutes after smoking one to two cigarettes and are gone after three hours, suggesting that mothers can time their smoking and breast-feeding opportunities. Additional research is needed to fully understand the impact of nicotine on infant development, Mennella said.

More information

To learn more about breast-feeding, visit the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.