Celebrating Breastfeeding Awareness Month with Carol L. Cheatham PhD’s Research on Infant Brain Development
As we celebrate Breastfeeding Awareness Month this August, the UNC Nutrition Research Institute (NRI) is proud to spotlight the work of principal investigator Carol L. Cheatham, PhD. Her research is expanding our understanding of how nutrition can support brain development and function, especially during the earliest and most critical stages of life.
Breastfeeding Awareness Month highlights the many benefits of breastfeeding for both infants and mothers. Breast milk provides essential nutrients that help babies grow, strengthens the bond between mother and child, and offers protection against a variety of illnesses. This month is an opportunity to raise awareness and encourage support for breastfeeding families everywhere.
Cheatham’s research focuses on how individual differences—like genetics and nutrient metabolism—can shape cognitive development. Her work zeroes in on memory and attention, two fundamental areas for learning and school readiness. Using tools such as interactive games and specialized brain activity monitors, her team studies how nutritional inputs can influence early brain development.
Currently, Cheatham and her team are conducting the BRAINS Study (Breastfeeding, Avocados, and Infant Nutrition Study), which explores how maternal diet during breastfeeding can influence the nutrient composition of breast milk and, in turn, enhance infant cognition. Specifically, they’re examining whether eating avocados can increase brain-supportive nutrients like DHA, lutein, and choline in human milk.
Participants in the BRAINS Study will visit the NRI lab three times over the course of three months. During the study, mothers will be randomly assigned to either eat a provided avocado each day or abstain from avocados altogether. All participants will maintain a food diary, provide milk and saliva samples, and bring their babies to participate in age-appropriate games that assess memory and learning.
The study is currently enrolling women ages 18–35 who are either pregnant and plan to exclusively breastfeed or are currently exclusively breastfeeding babies younger than 3 months old. Study participation begins when the baby reaches 3 months of age. Participants will be compensated for their time and valuable contributions to this important research.
Cheatham’s work holds real promise for shaping future dietary recommendations for breastfeeding women and ultimately supporting the healthiest possible start for the next generation. Join us in celebrating Breastfeeding Awareness Month by supporting science that nurtures young minds.
Interested in participating? Call 704-250-5018 or email feedingbrains@unc.edu to see if you qualify!