Breast milk is slightly more acidic than plasma, with a pH of 7.1 compared to plasma's pH of 7.4. This means that breast milk is not strongly acidic, but rather slightly on the acidic side.
This difference in pH can affect the absorption of certain medications into breast milk. For example, medicines with a higher pH (basic) such as β-blockers will diffuse into the milk more readily.
Factors that can influence breast milk pH:
- Mother's diet: While there is no direct link between diet and breast milk acidity, some mothers may notice changes in their milk's smell or taste after consuming certain foods.
- Intense physical activity: Intense physical activity can lead to an increase in lactic acid production, which may slightly affect breast milk pH.
- Non-suckling: When breastfeeding is interrupted, the pH of breast milk may fluctuate.
In conclusion, breast milk is slightly more acidic than plasma but is not considered strongly acidic. It's important to note that the pH of breast milk is influenced by various factors, and any concerns about its acidity should be addressed with a healthcare professional.
