Breastfeeding and baby’s immune system

Breastfeeding is known to be the best feeding option for a baby. Although every mother has the right to choose whether to breastfeed or not, it is definitely good to have all the information on the subject and to understand where the difference lies between breast milk and infant formula.

The perfect food

Mother’s milk is the perfect exclusive-designed food for her baby. It is unbelievable how the mother;s body recognizes the special needs of each baby and adjusts the milk to meet them! Even if they are premature or underweight babies, the nutrients are uniquely concentrated in the right proportions in order to meet the needs.

Infant’s immune system

But how does breast milk affect baby’s immune system?

Antibodies

Breast milk and especially colostrum (the milk of the first days) contains antibodies, known as immunoglobulins, thanks to which a mother can boost her baby’s immunity in the most natural way. These are the immunoglobulins IgA, IgM, IgG.

More specifically, through breastfeeding, maternal antibodies are passed on to the infant, both from past illnesses and from those that will be infected while breastfeeding. (1) IgA immunoglobulins form a protective layer on the inner surfaces of the mouth, the nose, stomach, lungs and intestine, preventing the entry of pathogens. (2)

In addition to macronutrients (proteins, carbohydrates, fats) and micronutrients (vitamins, minerals), breast milk even contains white blood cells, lactoferrin and interleukins, which strengthen the body’s defenses against infections! (1) In addition, it contains hormones and enzymes, which in turn contribute to a baby’s health. 

Probiotics

Also very important are the probiotic factors contained in breast milk, which help build the human microbiome, ie the beneficial bacteria in the baby’s body. A healthy microbiome plays a key role in the long run, as it significantly reduces the risk of allergies, asthma, obesity and chronic diseases. (1)

Some of the many benefits of breastfeeding are:

1. Protection against infections: otitis media, respiratory infections, common cold, flu, gastrointestinal infections (eg diarrhea) etc.
2. Gastrointestinal Enhancement: The immune and probiotic agents it contains enhance gastrointestinal health, and reduce the incidence of inflammatory bowel disease.
3. Reduce the incidence of leukemia and lymphoma, compared to formula-fed infants. This may be due in part to the fact that these diseases are affected by disorders of the immune system. (1)
4. Reduced risk of diabetes: The risk of developing type 2 diabetes is reduced by 35% according to aggregate data from 11 studies. (3) 1! (4)
5. Reduced risk of obesity: During breastfeeding, the baby regulates the amount of milk he needs as opposed to bottle feeding, where he passively receives a continuous flow of milk. It is a fact that babies who are formula-fed consume more milk and gain more weight, with more fat deposition, compared to those who are breastfed. Thus, they often lead to childhood obesity or even obesity in adulthood. (4)
6. Greater chance of survival in premature infants. Breastfeeding in premature infants protects them from gastrointestinal infections (of which they are more at risk), while milk is more digestible. Also very important in this case is the skin-to-skin contact, where the mother holds the baby on her body as much as she can. (5)

Also, breastfed babies develop a greater thymus gland compared to those who receive infant formula. The thymus gland is a specialized organ, where T-lymphocytes mature, which protect against infections. (2)

New data

Although the above facts have been known for years, until now the mechanisms responsible for them were not fully understood. But now a new study from the University of Birmingham and the Birmingham Women and Children’s NHS Foundation Trust is coming to light.

Researchers have discovered for the first time that a specific type of lymphocyte, T-regulatory cells (TREGS), expand in the first three weeks of life in breastfed infants and is almost twice as abundant as in formula-fed infants. The same cells also control a baby’s immune response to non-hereditary maternal antigens that are transmitted through breast milk and help reduce inflammation. (6)

In addition, research has shown that certain bacteria (Veillonella and Gemella), which support the function of T-regulatory cells, are more abundant in the gut of breastfed infants.

Researcher Gergely Toldi states: “Before our research, the significance and early involvement of this particular cell type in breastfed infants was unknown. We are very grateful to the mothers and babies who contributed to this special project. “

The study was based on a unique three-year research program that analyzes data from 38 healthy mothers and their healthy babies.

Small amounts of blood and stool samples were collected at birth at Birmingham Women’s Hospital and again later during home visits when the babies were three weeks old. Sixteen of the 38 infants (42%) were exclusively breastfed during the study, while nine infants received mixed feeding and 13 infants were exclusively formula-fed.

“The results of the study were published in the medical journal Allergy, and emphasize the importance of breastfeeding,” the researchers said. (6)

Supplements for mom and child

Often, new mothers wonder if there is anything they can give their babies or take on their own to boost their immune system.

Vitamin D3

In recent years, it has become common for pediatricians to recommend Vitamin D3 in drops to infants from birth, as the requirements may not be met through breastfeeding or formula, and baby’s exposure to sun is often avoided due to the risk of sunburn. Vitamin D3 deficiency at this age is often associated with rickets, so consult your pediatrician about supplementation. (7)

Probiotics

Another supplement (always with the consent of your pediatrician) is probiotics, which are also available in the form of drops, in infant formulas. In addition to boosting the immune system, there is a noticeable reduction in colic and reflux, which often afflict infants. (8) However, you should observe if any side effects occur (eg gas, diarrhea, bloating, etc.), and inform your doctor.

Breastfeeding supplements

Mothers, on the other hand, it is good to strengthen their body with a specialized supplement that will meet the very increased requirements for nutrients that are observed during breastfeeding.

In addition to multivitamins, many supplements now contain the valuable DHA fatty acids, for the proper development of the baby’s brain!

Discover specialized supplements for pregnancy and breastfeeding at Vita4you.gr

References

1. Breastfeeding Benefits Your Baby’s Immune System
2.  Breastfeeding and immunity
3.  Breast milk antibodies and their magic benefits
4.  Μη θηλασμός και παχυσαρκία
5.  Breastfeeding your premature baby
6. New insight into why breastfed babies have improved immune systems
7. Does my baby need a vitamin D supplement?
8. Baby Probiotics: Are They Safe?