Water-Soluble Vitamins in Breast Milk: Factors Affecting their Concentrations and their Physiological Significance

We know very little about water soluble vitamins in human milk, but Lindsay Allen believes deficiency can be a serious health problem in populations which have poor micronutrient status. The recommended intakes for water soluble vitamins for infants and mothers in various countries around the world differ greatly, and are based on sparse data which in many cases is very old. 

Water soluble vitamins include Vitamin B12, Niacin, Choline, Folate and Ascorbic Acid.  Except for Vitamin B12, the global status of water soluble vitamins is almost unknown, as are the physiological effects of deficiency. The most effective ways to supplement or fortify nutritional sources are currently unclear. 

In this presentation, Lindsay Allen looks at the food sources of these vitamins and the effect of deficiency on the health and growth of infants. She goes on to outline a new global study that is just getting underway, which aims to measure the impact of intervention and set Daily Recommended Intakes.