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Does breast milk help with a sore throat?

The Role of Breast Milk in Alleviating Sore Throats
When it comes to soothing a sore throat, many people wonder about the potential benefits of breast milk. While breast milk is primarily known for its nutritional value and immune-boosting properties for infants, its role in alleviating sore throat symptoms is a topic of interest for both nursing mothers and those caring for sick children.
Nutritional and Immune Benefits
Breast milk is rich in antibodies and other immune factors that can help protect infants from infections. According to health experts, when a breastfeeding mother is exposed to pathogens, her body produces specific antibodies that are transferred to her baby through her milk. This means that if a mother has a sore throat due to a viral infection, her breast milk may contain antibodies that could help bolster her baby’s immune response against similar infections.
Does Breast Milk Help with Sore Throat Symptoms?
While breast milk can provide immune support, it is not a direct remedy for sore throat symptoms. For adults suffering from a sore throat, the question often arises whether consuming milk—breast milk or otherwise—can exacerbate symptoms. Some believe that dairy products may increase mucus production, leading to more discomfort. However, research indicates that dairy does not significantly worsen phlegm or mucus production in most individuals.
For breastfeeding mothers experiencing a sore throat, the best approach is to stay hydrated and consume soothing liquids. Warm fluids, including herbal teas and broths, can provide relief. Breast milk itself can be soothing for infants, especially if they are experiencing discomfort from a sore throat or cold, as it can help keep them hydrated and provide essential nutrients.
Practical Considerations
If a breastfeeding mother has a sore throat, she should focus on self-care strategies that are safe and effective. This includes drinking plenty of fluids, gargling with salt water, and using honey (if appropriate for her age) to soothe the throat. It’s also advisable for mothers to consult healthcare professionals if their symptoms persist or worsen.
In summary, while breast milk is beneficial for infants in terms of immune support, it is not a specific treatment for sore throats. For adults, consuming milk does not significantly worsen throat discomfort, and for infants, breast milk remains a comforting and nutritious option during illness.

What kills a sore throat fast while breastfeeding?

Experts agree that cough drops/lozenges and sore throat sprays, such as Chloraseptic are safe to use while breastfeeding, as well.

What kills a sore throat fast overnight while pregnant?

A sore throat while pregnant can be treated with simple home remedies, such as gargling with warm water and salt and drinking ginger tea with lemon.

Is breast milk good for a sore throat?

Sore throat: Breast milk may help relieve a sore throat when used as a mouth rinse or gargle. Skincare: Breast milk has been used to wash the skin, remove make-up, and clear up acne. Some sources tout the benefits of breast milk as a skin moisturizer.

Can I drink my own breast milk for a cold?

It’s well-known that breast milk contains essential nutrients and antibodies that help babies build up their immune systems and protect them from getting sick. The idea that it can help adults as well isn’t new.

Does breast milk protect against strep throat?

11 Antibodies passed from a person to a baby via breast milk can help protect the baby against several illnesses, including strep.

How to help a baby with a sore throat?

Sore Throats in Babies: Spot the Signs and Speed Up Relief

  1. Have them nap and drink, lots. Offer little ones frequent feedings. For toddlers, popsicles are great.
  2. Turn on a cool-mist humidifier in their room. Moist air can make their throat feel better.
  3. Call your pediatrician if: The pain lasts longer than a few days.

Can breastmilk help an adult with a cold?

Dr. Jack Newman, who founded the International Breastfeeding Centre, believes human milk could have beneficial qualities for adults — especially someone who is sick. “There are dozens of various immune factors in a living fluid that will help people fight off infection,” says Newman.

Can a mother pass strep throat to my baby?

It’s extremely unlikely that your baby will get strep. Babies rarely become infected, probably because the antibodies they receive before birth are still at work and most babies have very small tonsils.

Does breastmilk help sore throat?

But sore throats happen to babies, and breastfeeding (breast milk) can provide much-needed relief.

Can breast milk help a sore throat in adults?

Sore throat: Breast milk may help relieve a sore throat when used as a mouth rinse or gargle. Skincare: Breast milk has been used to wash the skin, remove make-up, and clear up acne. Some sources tout the benefits of breast milk as a skin moisturizer.

Natasha Lunn

Tash is an IBCLC and Business Coach helping fellow IBCLCs create fun, profitable businesses that are more than just an expensive hobby. Before becoming an IBCLC and starting her private practice - The Boobala, Tash graduated as an Osteopath in 2008 and has been in Private Practice in South West Sydney. She was also a volunteer Breastfeeding Counsellor and Community Educator with the Australian Breastfeeding Association for 6 years. Through her business, Your Lactation Biz, Tash coaches and creates products to help new and seasoned IBCLCs build businesses that suit their personality and lifestyle.

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