Body Builders Buying Human Breast Milk to Buff Up

It is usual for physicians to advise mothers to feed their infant children with breast milk as opposed to baby formula - since breast milk is rich in antibodies and helps to provide all the necessary nutrients for a new-born.

 Researchers are recently witnessing a rise trend among bodybuilders who are now looking to consume breast milk with the belief that it can provide an edge to developing bulk and muscle.

Assistant professor of Exercise Science from CUNY Lehman College, Brett Schoenfeld says, "It isn't common, but I've known people who have done this. It's certainly talked about quite a bit on the bodybuilding forums on the Internet."

The common perception here being that breast milk is a powerful source of nutrients and is a better alternative to cow's milk. While breast milk is safe for consumption among adults, there are however several health risks involved if the milk hasn't been stored properly. There is always the possibility of the mother carrying a contagious disease and milk that is not stored at the right temperatures could contain high levels of staphylococcus bacteria.

Interestingly, this has not deterred certain body building aficionados from obtaining breast milk from various online sources. An ounce of breast milk can sell for as much as $10 while a gallon of cow's milk costs only $3.50. Today, sites like www.onlythebreast.com feature a special category for men under 'Men Buying Breast Milk.'

Medical experts also believe that adults may not derive the same health benefits from breast milk since by design, it's meant only for infants. It should also be noted breast milk contains lower levels of protein when compared to cow's milk, 2.5 grams per cup versus 7.9 grams per cup respectively.

Paediatrician, Dr Lana Gagain said, "I would discourage people from buying breast milk from untrusted sources. Although it isn't illegal, there are still risks involved. Sometimes the way breast milk is stored and processed is not always safe."