Impact of Maternal Body Composition, Hydration, and Metabolic Health on Breastfeeding Success: A Comprehensive Review

It is well established that breastfeeding provides significant health benefits for both the mother and the infant. The World Health Organization recommends initiating breastfeeding within the first hour after birth and continuing exclusive breastfeeding for 6 months. Successful breastfeeding is influenced not only by the proper physiological preparation of the body and the action of pregnancy-related hormones but also by the mother's overall health status. However, the role of maternal body composition and metabolic condition in breastfeeding success has received little attention. To better understand the impact of these factors on breastfeeding effectiveness, we reviewed the latest research on this topic, with particular emphasis on the role of hydration and lipid metabolism. Our narrative review indicates that the amount and distribution of water and adipose tissue are crucial for successful lactation and that various hormonal imbalances and metabolic disorders increase the risk of delayed breastfeeding initiation, shortened breastfeeding duration, or insufficient milk production. In light of our findings, measurement methods for assessing described parameters were also introduced. This article aims to review the effects of maternal body composition, hydration status, and metabolic and social factors on lactation and breastfeeding.