Study of determinants of the nutritional composition of donor human milk: study protocol

Introduction: Human milk is widely recognized as the optimal source of nutrition for newborns. In certain circumstances, such as in prematurity or illness, mothers’ own milk (MOM) may not be available, and in such cases, donor human milk (DHM) is considered the preferred alternative. The aim of this study protocol is to investigate the influence of pasteurization, dietary habits and body composition of donors on milk composition. Methodology: This study will include donors from the Human Milk Bank of the North at Unidade Local de Saúde São João who consent to participate. Sociodemographic, lifestyle and clinical data will be collected through questionnaires administered in interviews. Dietary intake of the donors will be assessed using a semiquantitative Food Frequency Questionnaire, validated for the Portuguese population. Donor's height, weight, and fat mass will also be measured according to standard procedures. To assess the impact of pasteurization on nutritional composition, DHM samples will be analyzed before and after pasteurization with the Miris Human Milk Analyzer®. Discussion and expected results: This research project, the first of its kind in Portugal, aims to elucidate the influence of specific factors on the nutritional composition of human milk. It is expected to generate valuable data that will enhance our understanding of nutritional composition of human milk and contribute to improving the quality of care provided. Funding: no funding to declare.