What allergens are transferred through breast milk?

Understanding Allergen Transfer Through Breast Milk
Breastfeeding is widely recognized for its numerous health benefits for both infants and mothers. However, an often overlooked aspect is the potential transfer of allergens through breast milk. This phenomenon raises important questions about how maternal diet can influence infant health, particularly concerning allergies.
Common Allergens Found in Breast Milk
Research indicates that several food allergens can be transferred to infants through breast milk. Notable allergens include:
– Cow’s Milk Proteins: The most frequently identified allergens in breast milk are proteins from cow’s milk, particularly beta-lactoglobulin and casein. These proteins can provoke allergic reactions in sensitive infants, leading to symptoms such as gastrointestinal distress and skin reactions.
– Egg Proteins: The major allergen from eggs, ovalbumin, has also been detected in breast milk. This can be particularly concerning for infants who may develop an allergy to eggs.
– Peanut Allergens: Proteins from peanuts, including clinically relevant allergens like Arachis hypogaea, have been found in breast milk. This is significant given the rising prevalence of peanut allergies among children.
– Wheat Proteins: Components such as gliadin, a protein found in wheat, can also be transferred through breast milk, potentially contributing to wheat allergies.
The Dual Role of Allergens in Breast Milk
The presence of allergens in breast milk can have a dual effect. On one hand, exposure to these allergens may sensitize some infants, leading to the development of allergies. On the other hand, there is evidence suggesting that early exposure to certain allergens through breast milk might help in developing tolerance. This concept is supported by studies indicating that maternal exposure to allergens can induce specific immune responses in infants, potentially reducing the risk of developing allergies later in life.
Timing and Monitoring
The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recommends introducing common food allergens, such as peanuts and eggs, around six months of age. This timing is crucial as it coincides with the period when infants begin to explore solid foods. Monitoring for allergic reactions during this phase is essential, especially for infants who may have been exposed to these allergens through breast milk.
Conclusion
The transfer of allergens through breast milk is a complex issue that underscores the importance of maternal diet during breastfeeding. While certain allergens can pose risks for allergic reactions in infants, there is also potential for these exposures to foster tolerance. As research continues to evolve, it remains vital for breastfeeding mothers to be aware of their dietary choices and to consult healthcare providers regarding any concerns about allergies in their infants.

What is transmissible through breast milk?

Abstract. Three viruses (CMV, HIV, and HTLV-I) frequently cause infection or disease as a result of breast-milk transmission.

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 are the top foods that bother breastfed babies?

Foods like beans, broccoli, cauliflower, or some dairy products can cause fussiness, gassiness, or colicky behavior in some babies. Foods like cow’s milk, soy, wheat, corn, oats, eggs, nuts and peanuts, and fish or shellfish are common allergy-causing foods.

What allergies can pass through breast milk?

Common allergens include dairy, eggs, fish, shellfish, peanuts, tree nuts, wheat, and soy1. If you suspect your baby is allergic to something you are eating you may try cutting these out of your diet, one at a time, and see if your baby’s health improves.

What illnesses should you not breastfeed?

When Should I Not Breastfeed My Baby?

• If the mother has been infected with HIV or has AIDS.
• Many medications taken by the mother may pass onto the baby via breast milk.
• Mothers with cancer who are taking cancer chemotherapy medications also cannot breastfeed their babies.

Why avoid cinnamon while breastfeeding?

Coumarin, an ingredient in some cinnamon products, can cause liver problems, but the amount you’d get is so small that it probably won’t be a problem. Given the lack of evidence about its safety, children, pregnant women, and women who are breastfeeding should avoid cinnamon as a treatment.

Why avoid strawberries while breastfeeding?

A quart or more of orange juice or a diet heavy in seasonal fruits such as strawberries, melons or cherries have been associated with diarrhea and colicky symptoms in some infants. Foods containing many preservatives, additives or dyes have been associated with signs of discomfort in some babies.

What does baby poop look like with a milk allergy?

Green, bloody, or mucus-tinged stool—along with some other issues—could indicate a milk allergy. If you suspect your baby has a cow’s milk protein allergy, keep an eye out for these common issues that may occur shortly after feeding: wheezing, coughing, swelling, a rash, gas, crying, and unusual poops.

How do I know if my breastmilk is upsetting my baby’s stomach?

Monitor your diet closely if you’re breastfeeding. If you feel there are certain foods that might be upsetting your baby’s stomach, try avoiding them for a while. If you notice weight loss, forceful spit up, fussiness or other symptoms, talk to your child’s pediatrician about your concerns.

What if baby drinks bad breast milk?

If your baby has had spoiled breast milk, they’ll likely let you know. They may throw up, or have an upset stomach, diarrhea or fever. It’s important to call your pediatrician if you think your baby may be sick from having spoiled breast milk.