SCIENCE FILE : Science in Brief : New Analysis of Breast Feeding Studies Suggests a Boost in IQ of 3 to 5 Points

A new analysis of more than 30 previous studies suggests that breast feeding infants produces a boost in IQ of 3 to 5 points compared to infants who are bottle-fed. The enhancement is apparent as early as 6 months and persists for at least 15 years, according to Dr. James W. Anderson of the University of Kentucky Chandler Medical Center.

Anderson suggests in today’s American Journal of Clinical Nutrition that nutrients in breast milk account for about 3.2 points of the increase and that an additional 2.1 points can be attributed to maternal bonding.

Compiled by Times medical writer Thomas H. Maugh II