[Antioxidative properties of human milk].

Human milk, despite numerous advantages, has also antioxidative properties. Oxidative stress is implicated in bronchopulmonary dysplasia, retinopathy of prematurity and necrotizing enterocolitis. Therefore, the influence of human milk on oxidative stress intensity in breast-fed neonates and infants is a significant issue. The concentration of antioxidants in milk depends on mother's diet, vitamins supplementation during pregnancy and lactation and geographical area of domicile. Breast-fed children have higher antioxidative capacity in blood and lower oxidative stress intensity as compared to formula-fed children. Storage increases the antioxidative activity of human milk. Maternal smoking augments oxidative damage in children and lowers the antioxidative capacity of milk.