International Board of Certified Lactation Consultant (IBCLC) Practice Exam

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Compared to formula-fed babies, breastfed babies typically have what kind of cholesterol levels?

Lower
Higher
The same
Variable

The correct answer is: Higher

Breastfed babies typically have higher cholesterol levels compared to formula-fed babies. This is an important aspect of infant nutrition and development. Breast milk contains higher levels of certain fats, including cholesterol, which are essential for brain development and overall growth in infants. The presence of these fats encourages the liver to produce more cholesterol, which is critical for the formation of cell membranes and myelin – the protective sheath around nerves. Additionally, the cholesterol levels in breast milk are naturally tailored to meet the specific needs of the infant, promoting healthy lipid metabolism and possibly protective cardiovascular health later in life. This increase in cholesterol is not an unwanted aspect; rather, it serves vital roles in developing the infant's body as well as their neurological systems. Hence, higher cholesterol levels in breastfed babies reflect the nutritional and developmental advantages provided by breast milk.