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Does egg protein enter breast milk?

Understanding Egg Protein in Breast Milk
The question of whether egg protein enters breast milk is particularly relevant for breastfeeding mothers, especially those concerned about food allergies in their infants. Research indicates that proteins from foods consumed by breastfeeding mothers can indeed be detected in breast milk, including egg proteins.
Presence of Egg Protein in Breast Milk
A study focusing on infants with eczema found that egg protein was present in the breast milk of mothers who consumed eggs. This suggests that when a mother eats eggs, the proteins can transfer into her milk, potentially exposing the infant to these proteins. This is significant for mothers who may have dietary restrictions or concerns about allergies, as it highlights the importance of monitoring what they consume during breastfeeding.
Implications for Allergies
The presence of egg protein in breast milk can have implications for infants, particularly those at risk for food allergies. Interestingly, research has shown that breast milk from mothers who consume allergenic foods, such as eggs, may help protect infants from developing allergies to those foods. This protective effect is thought to be due to the immune-modulating properties of breast milk, which can help the infant’s immune system learn to tolerate these proteins.
Conclusion
In summary, egg protein does enter breast milk when mothers consume eggs. This transfer can have both positive and negative implications, particularly concerning food allergies. For breastfeeding mothers, being aware of their diet is crucial, not only for their health but also for the health and development of their infants.

Does egg transfer through breast milk?

It is known that maternal antigens to potential food allergens, such as eggs, can pass into breast milk and it has been suggested that infants might be sensitised to foods by exposure to these antigens in their mother’s milk.

Should you avoid eggs while breastfeeding?

Yes, eggs are an ideal food for breastfeeding mothers. As well as being high in protein, they contain a wide range of nutrients, many of which are particularly important for you and your baby, including folate, vitamin D, iodine, selenium, choline and long-chain omega-3 fatty acids.

Does egg pass through breastmilk?

Additionally, 2 cohort trials found that milk protein ingestion for 1 or 3 days after birth was associated with an increased risk of milk allergy. Generally, egg proteins secreted into breast milk as a result of the maternal egg intake are minuscule.

Can anything be passed through breast milk?

Infectious organisms can reach the breast milk either by secretion in the fluid or cellular components of breast milk or by contamination of the milk at the time of or after expression.

What food proteins pass through breast milk?

In breastfed babies, this can come from food proteins, such as in cows’ milk, wheat, soy or egg, or possibly other food chemicals that enter breastmilk from the mother’s diet, as well as from food the baby has eaten.

Does egg protein go through breast milk?

Additionally, 2 cohort trials found that milk protein ingestion for 1 or 3 days after birth was associated with an increased risk of milk allergy. Generally, egg proteins secreted into breast milk as a result of the maternal egg intake are minuscule.

What foods make breastfed babies gassy?

Many mothers have reported foods such as kale, spinach, beans, onions, garlic, peppers or spicy foods cause infant gas, while many babies tolerate these foods just fine.

What foods decrease breast milk?

Top 5 food / drinks to avoid if you have a low milk supply:

  • Carbonated beverages.
  • Caffeine – coffee, black tea, green tea, etc.
  • Excess Vitamin C & Vitamin B –supplements or drinks with excessive vitamin C Or B (Vitamin Water, Powerade, oranges/orange juice and citrus fruits/juice.)

Does egg protein pass into breast milk?

Additionally, 2 cohort trials found that milk protein ingestion for 1 or 3 days after birth was associated with an increased risk of milk allergy. Generally, egg proteins secreted into breast milk as a result of the maternal egg intake are minuscule.

Does protein powder pass through breast milk?

Yes it gets “absorbed less” than other forms of protein. Breast milk is like 49% bioavailable, eggs are 48%, then meats then others like grains beans etc. One of the lowest is whey protein powder at 17%.

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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