The Role of Carbohydrates in Breastmilk

This infographic provides healthcare professionals with a clear and evidence-based summary of the carbohydrate composition of human breastmilk, highlighting the two primary components: lactose and Human Milk Oligosaccharides (HMOS). While lactose is the main energy source and least variable macronutrient in breastmilk, HMOS are diverse, undigestible carbohydrates with over 200 unique structures. Together, they support essential functions like gut health, immune modulation, calcium absorption, and infection prevention, while also contributing to brain development and the sensorial properties of breastmilk.

The Takeaway for Healthcare Professionals

Ideal for HCPs in paediatrics, neonatology, maternal health, and clinical nutrition, this visual guide helps you understand the biological roles and clinical significance of carbohydrates in breastmilk. By exploring this infographic, you will:

• Learn how lactose and HMOS function in infant development

• Understand variations in carbohydrate composition based on lactation stage, delivery mode, geography, BMI, and genetics

• Discover the prebiotic role of HMOS in shaping the infant gut microbiota

• Gain insight into how carbohydrates support immune protection and metabolic programming

Download Now & Deepen Your Clinical Expertise

Download the full infographic to explore peer-reviewed insights on breastmilk carbohydrates. The complete resource includes additional data, molecular details, and valuable clinical context to support informed decision-making in practice.