Does breastmilk help babies fight sickness?

The Immune-Boosting Power of Breast Milk
Breast milk is often hailed as the gold standard for infant nutrition, but its benefits extend far beyond mere sustenance. Recent research underscores its crucial role in bolstering a baby’s immune system, particularly during times of illness.
Adaptive Nature of Breast Milk
One of the most remarkable features of breast milk is its ability to adapt to the specific needs of a baby, especially when that baby is unwell. When an infant is sick, the composition of breast milk changes to provide enhanced immune support. This dynamic adjustment includes an increase in antibodies and other protective factors that help combat infections. For instance, the concentration of secretory Immunoglobulin A (sIgA) and lactoferrin—two key immune components—can vary based on the infant’s health status, effectively tailoring the milk to fight off specific pathogens.
Nutritional and Immune Benefits
Breast milk is not only nutritionally complete, containing the right balance of fats, proteins, and carbohydrates, but it also plays a pivotal role in developing a robust immune system. It is rich in white blood cells, antibodies, and other bioactive compounds that work together to protect infants from infections. Studies have shown that breastfeeding significantly reduces the risk of common illnesses, such as respiratory infections and gastrointestinal diseases, during infancy.
Support During Illness
When a baby falls ill, breastfeeding can be one of the most effective ways to support their recovery. The World Health Organization recommends exclusive breastfeeding for the first six months of life, emphasizing its importance not just for nutrition but also for immune protection. The act of breastfeeding itself can provide comfort and hydration, which are crucial during sickness. Moreover, the presence of immune factors in breast milk can help shorten the duration of illnesses and reduce their severity.
Long-Term Implications
The benefits of breastfeeding extend beyond the immediate effects on health. Research indicates that breastfeeding may confer long-term protection against various health issues, although the extent of this protection can vary. The immune system developed during infancy can have lasting effects, potentially reducing the risk of chronic conditions later in life.
In conclusion, breast milk is a powerful ally in the fight against sickness for infants. Its unique ability to adapt to the health needs of a baby, combined with its rich array of immune-boosting components, makes it an invaluable resource for nurturing and protecting the youngest members of our society. As parents navigate the challenges of illness in their children, the importance of breastfeeding cannot be overstated—it is a natural, effective way to support recovery and promote long-term health.

Do breastfed babies get RSV less?

Breastfeeding decreases incidence and severity of RSV disease. Breastfeeding was associated with a lower risk of RSV hospitalisation (OR 0.34). Breastfeeding reduced the risk of hospitalisation (OR 0.47, 95% CI 0.25 to 0.89, p=0.021). It provided partial protection against severe RSV disease.

Do breastfed babies recover from illness quicker?

Did you know that if you breastfeed, your baby is less likely to get ill in the first place? While it won’t completely stop her becoming sick, breast milk’s protective properties mean breastfed babies tend to be unwell less often,1 and recover faster, than formula-fed babies.

Is breast milk a natural antibiotic?

Laboratory and clinical studies have supported that human breast milk is able to decrease bacterial-related diarrhea 9, urinary tract infection 10,11, and many other diseases associated with bacterial infection 12.

Do breastfed babies get less sick?

Breastfed babies have fewer infections and hospitalizations than formula-fed infants. During breastfeeding, antibodies and other germ-fighting factors pass from a mother to her baby and strengthen the immune system. This helps lower a baby’s chances of getting many infections, including: ear infections.

Does breast milk help a sick baby?

Whether it’s cough, cold, stomach flu or other common illness, there’s no need to stop breastfeeding while your baby is sick. On the contrary, your milk is a powerful medicine that can help your little one recover more quickly!

What are the 5 disadvantages of breastfeeding?

• There can be discomfort involved with breastfeeding.
• You may leak milk at times that are inconvenient or embarrassing.
• Feeding your baby in public may be more difficult.
• Everything you consume is being passed on to your baby.
• You need special clothing and bras for breastfeeding.

Does breastmilk help babies fight viruses?

Breast milk supports your baby’s health because it: Is easy for their immature tummy and intestines to digest. Contains antibodies that protect against infection and boost immunity.

Does breastmilk protect against RSV?

There have been many efforts to find out which could protect infants from the sequelae or mortality by RSV. Human milk feeding was proved to be one of the effective protectors. Nishimura et al. [13]. reported that breastfeeding could reduce the severity of RSV infection among the young infants via multicenter study.

Are breastfed babies less likely to get RSV?

Infants receiving (exclusive or partial) maternal milk had lower risk of RSV bronchiolitis. Partial breastfeeding reduces risk of hospitalisation.

Can breast milk help baby congestion?

Breast milk in the nose
Some people feel that putting breast milk in a baby’s nose works just as well as saline drops to soften mucus. Carefully put a little milk right into your baby’s nose while feeding. When you sit them up after eating, the mucus will likely slide right out.