A growing number of bodybuilders are turning to breast milk as a workout supplement, claiming it aids muscle growth. The trend, highlighted in Netflix's docuseries (Un)Well, has sparked debate over the ethics and safety of using human milk for purposes other than infant nutrition.
Amateur bodybuilder James 'JJ' Ritenour, featured in the series, stated, 'Breast milk did well for me in the past. Why couldn't it do the same again?' However, experts warn that the practice is not only impractical but also potentially hazardous.
Brian St. Pierre, a sports dietitian, explained that while breast milk is calorie and nutrient dense, containing about 170 calories per cup, 10 grams of fat, 16 grams of carbs, and 2 grams of protein, its growth hormones are unlikely to benefit adults. Registered dietitian Marc Halpern added that breast milk is hard to obtain, expensive—averaging $1.50 per ounce—and unregulated, posing risks of contamination and disease transmission.
A study by Nationwide Children's Hospital found that out of 101 breast milk samples purchased online, 10% were adulterated with cow's milk or formula, and 75% contained harmful bacteria, including salmonella and fecal matter. Lead researcher Sarah A. Keim noted, 'We were surprised so many samples had such high bacterial counts and even fecal contamination.'
Experts agree that muscle growth is best achieved through a balanced diet, adequate protein, and consistent training, not through unproven supplements like breast milk.
