Beta-palmitate – a natural component of human milk in supplemental milk formulas

Abstract

The composition and function of human milk is unique and gives a basis for the development of modern artificial milk formulas that can provide an appropriate substitute for non-breastfed infants. Although human milk is not fully substitutable, modern milk formulas are attempting to mimic human milk and partially substitute its complex biological positive effects on infants. Besides the immunomodulatory factors from human milk, research has been focused on the composition and structure of human milk fat with a high content of β-palmitic acid (sn-2 palmitic acid, β-palmitate). According to the available studies, increasing the content of β-palmitate added to milk formulas promotes several beneficial physiological functions. β-palmitate positively influences fatty acid metabolism, increases calcium absorption, improves bone matrix quality and the stool consistency, and has a positive effect on the development of the intestinal microbiome.

Fat structure and composition in human milk and infant formulas: Implications in infant health

“…On the contrary, LCSFAs esterified at sn-2 position are better absorbed as MAGs. [18][19][20] 4. Bowel habits in infants…”

“…Palmitic acid is the main saturated fatty acid, accounting for 20% to 25% of the fatty acids in mature HM (Table 1). 18 , 25 The sn-2 positioning of fatty acids plays an important role in fat digestion and absorption. Human milk is a remarkable example of stereospecific positioning of fatty acids (Table 2).…”

“…Hence, HM causes less constipation and better absorption of calcium and magnesium. [18][19][20] , 26…”

Efficiency of Using the Adapted Goat’s Milk Formula in the Diet of Healthy Young Infants: a Multicenter Prospective Comparative Study

“…Выявленный клинический эффект продукта может быть связан с наличием в нем специально разработанного липидного комплекса DigestX на основе растительных масел, который отличается высоким (40-42%) содержанием пальмитиновой кислоты в sn-2 положении в молекуле триглицерида. Многими исследованиями было показано, что такая структура триглицеридов позволяет повысить усвоение жира и энергетическое обеспечение грудных детей на смешанном и искусственном вскармливании, оптимизировать всасывание кальция, улучшить процессы пищеварения и предупредить развитие запоров [17][18][19].…”

Maternal age influence in human colostrum fat composition

“…After birth the neonate requires a very high energy intake and to satisfy this energy need, colostrum has a fundamental component, which represents approximately 50% of the energy content of human milk, fats 16 . The concentration of fats increases during breastfeeding, so the nal milk of the feed (posterior milk) is richer in energy 17 .…”