The Research Recap: 36-COVID-19, Support, Traditional Foods, and Seafood

In this episode of Behind the Latch, Margaret Salty shares five new research studies that illuminate how culture, trauma, nutrition, and social support shape breastfeeding experiences around the world. From COVID recovery in Jordan to tribal food taboos in India, seafood during pregnancy, and the complex role of family dynamics—this episode delivers evidence-based insights every IBCLC needs.Key Studies and Takeaways:1. “Breastfeeding Experiences of COVID-19 Survivor Multipara Mothers During Pre- and Post-COVID-19: A Comparative Phenomenological Study”Citation: Abuhammad, S., et al. (2025). BMC Pregnancy and Childbirth, 25, 502. https://doi.org/10.1186/s12884-025-07610-3Jordanian mothers who had breastfed both before and after COVID described physical, emotional, and supply-related challengesPost-infection breastfeeding was harder—many noted early weaning and emotional exhaustionConcerns about the vaccine’s impact on milk supply created uncertainty and stressLack of consistent lactation education and mental health support intensified these strugglesIBCLCs should lead with empathy, normalize emotional challenges post-COVID, and provide clear, compassionate vaccine counseling2. “Association Between Family Support and Breastfeeding Self-Efficacy in a Cross-Sectional Study”Citation: Hu, L., He, W., & Zhou, L. (2025). Nursing Open, 12, e70210. https://doi.org/10.1002/nop2.70210Study of 217 mothers in China found that greater family support was strongly associated with higher breastfeeding self-efficacyHowever, support from parents or spouses—when controlling or emotionally intense—was linked to lower BSESupport from in-laws or hired caregivers (e.g., nannies) showed more positive effectsIBCLCs should assess not only the presence of support, but its quality and emotional toneFamily involvement in education is important—but only when it supports maternal autonomy3. “A Study on Traditional Food Practices and Taboo During Pregnancy and Lactation in Tribal Population of Eastern Gujarat”Citation: Zaveri, N. H., et al. (2025). Journal of Family Medicine and Primary Care, 14(4), 1333–1337. https://doi.org/10.4103/jfmpc.jfmpc_1505_24Focus group study of 80 women revealed extensive food taboos: avoiding “hot,” “cold,” or “heavy” foods, and rejecting colostrumMothers commonly gave goat or cow milk in place of colostrum and consumed restrictive postpartum dietsCultural beliefs were shaped by safety concerns, aesthetic ideals, and gender normsIBCLCs working in diverse communities must use culturally sensitive language and collaborate with local leaders to reframe harmful mythsStorytelling and elder involvement are powerful tools in shifting generational norms4. “Seafood During Pregnancy and Lactation and Child Neurocognitive Development: A Systematic Review”Citation: O’Connor, L. E., et al. (2025). Advances in Nutrition. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.advnut.2025.100414Review of 40 studies showed seafood consumption during pregnancy supports better social-emotional development and adaptability in childrenVerbal intelligence and problem-solving were positively linked to seafood intake in several studiesNo strong evidence for harm at recommended intake levelsNo studies evaluated seafood during lactation—a major research gapIBCLCs can reassure families about low-mercury fish and shift the narrative from “avoidance” to nutrient densityConclusion:These studies span the globe and affirm one clear truth—breastfeeding...

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