Abstract:
The use of human breast milk has long been considered the standard for infant feeding and nutrition. The benefits of breastmilk have been shown to be especially valuable in the growth and development of preterm infants with decreased rates of necrotizing enterocolitis, decreased rates of late onset sepsis, and improved neurodevelopmental outcomes. In my presentation I will review the literature regarding breast milk intake and neurodevelopmental outcomes, the components of breast milk that likely contribute to these favorable results, and how the microbiome plays an important role in the gut-brain axis.
Biography:
Kate Tauber MD, MA FAAP is an Associate Professor at The Bernard and Millie Duker Children’s Hospital at Albany Medical Center in Albany NY. She is the Director of the Mother’s Own Milk program in the NICU as well as the NeuroNICU. She is certified by the American Board of Pediatrics and its Sub-board of Neonatal-Perinatal Medicine. Dr. Tauber is actively involved in the clinical care of neonates, teaching and mentoring of medical students, residents, and fellows, and regularly conducts clinical research with a focus on nutrition and breastmilk. She has presented her work at regional and national meetings. Outside of work Dr Tauber enjoys spending time with her family, skiing, traveling, and cooking.