International Board of Certified Lactation Consultant (IBCLC) Practice Exam

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Which hormone is associated with a baby appearing "milk drunk"?

  1. Prolactin

  2. Oxytocin

  3. Cholecystokinin

  4. Leptin

The correct answer is: Cholecystokinin

The phenomenon of a baby appearing "milk drunk," which describes an infant that is relaxed and drowsy after feeding, is primarily associated with cholecystokinin. This hormone is released from the small intestine in response to food intake, particularly fats and proteins. In infants, the presence of cholecystokinin in the digestive system after consuming breast milk indicates that they are experiencing fullness and satiation. When a baby is fed, cholecystokinin helps to regulate feeding behavior by promoting feelings of satiety, contributing to the state where they may seem lethargic or extremely content after a feed, commonly referred to as being "milk drunk." This effect can also contribute to the natural bonding experience between a mother and her baby, reinforcing the importance of feeding in the early stages of development. Understanding the role of cholecystokinin highlights the physiological processes involved in infant feeding and the significance of satiety hormones in regulating feeding behavior during infancy.