Which allergens pass through breast milk?

Understanding Allergens in Breast Milk
Breastfeeding is widely recognized as the optimal source of nutrition for infants, but it can also raise concerns for mothers regarding potential allergens that may pass through breast milk. Research indicates that certain food proteins from a mother’s diet can indeed transfer into breast milk, potentially leading to allergic reactions or intolerances in some infants.
Common Allergens Found in Breast Milk
Several food allergens have been identified in breast milk, including:
– Cow’s Milk Proteins: One of the most common allergens, proteins such as ß-lactoglobulin can be present in breast milk. This can lead to digestive issues in infants who are sensitive to dairy.

– Egg Proteins: The major allergen from eggs, ovalbumin, has also been detected in breast milk. Infants with an egg allergy may react to these proteins.
– Peanut Allergens: Proteins from peanuts, including those from the species Arachis hypogaea, can pass into breast milk. This is particularly concerning for infants with a known peanut allergy.
– Wheat Proteins: Components like gliadin from wheat can also be transferred, which may affect infants with gluten sensitivities.
– Fish Proteins: Allergens from fish, such as trout, have been associated with allergic reactions in breastfed infants.
Mechanisms of Allergen Transfer
The transfer of allergens into breast milk is influenced by the mother’s diet. When a breastfeeding mother consumes allergenic foods, these proteins can enter her bloodstream and subsequently be secreted into her breast milk. This means that if a mother has a diet rich in certain allergens, her breastfed baby may be exposed to these proteins.
Impact on Infants
While the presence of allergens in breast milk can lead to reactions in some infants, it is important to note that not all breastfed babies will experience allergies. Approximately 2% to 3% of infants may show signs of digestive intolerance to these food proteins, which can manifest as symptoms like diarrhea, bloating, fussiness, or increased gas.
Interestingly, breastfeeding is also thought to play a protective role against the development of allergies. It may help in reducing the likelihood of infants becoming sensitized to allergens, as exposure through breast milk can sometimes lead to a more gradual introduction to these proteins.
Conclusion
In summary, while certain allergens can pass through breast milk, the effects on infants vary widely. Mothers concerned about allergies should consult healthcare professionals for personalized advice, especially if their infants show signs of intolerance or allergic reactions. Understanding the dynamics of allergens in breast milk can help in making informed decisions about breastfeeding and dietary choices during this crucial period of infant development.

Why can’t you eat chocolate while breastfeeding?

Caffeine. It’s not just tea and coffee that contains caffeine – it’s in chocolate, and various energy drinks and soft drinks. It’s sensible to cut caffeine out while breastfeeding because it’s a stimulant so can make your baby restless.

What are the most common allergens while breastfeeding?

Babies love the flavors of foods that come through in your milk. Sometimes, though, a baby may be sensitive, not allergic, to something you eat, such as dairy products like milk and cheese. Soy, eggs, wheat, corn, beef and nuts are also common causes of food sensitivity.

What can pass into breast milk?

Serious Illnesses and Breastfeeding

• COVID-19. A parent who tests positive for COVID-19 can breastfeed their infant.
• HIV.
• Hepatitis B.
• Hepatitis C.
• Tuberculosis.
• Other infections.
• Cancer.
• More information.

How to tell if your baby is allergic to breast milk?

Symptoms of dairy allergy in breastfed babies

1. Hives or skin rash.
2. Nausea or vomiting.
3. Abdominal pain.
4. Swelling of the face, lips tongue or throat.
5. Dizziness.
6. Shortness of breath.
7. Difficulty swallowing.
8. Coughing or wheezing that lingers for several hours after drinking milk.

Does peanut pass through breast milk?

Conclusions Peanut protein is secreted into breast milk of lactating women following maternal dietary ingestion. Exposure to peanut protein during breastfeeding is a route of occult exposure that may result in sensitization of at-risk infants.

Can food allergies pass through breastmilk?

Babies can develop allergies to foods that you are eating while you are breastfeeding. There are no recommendations to avoid any food while you are breastfeeding to prevent allergies.

Is my breast milk upsetting my baby?

You’ll know if your breast milk is upsetting baby if they are unusually gassy or fussy after eating. As you and your baby get acclimated to breastfeeding, you’ll learn what not to eat while breastfeeding if your baby reacts to a certain food or drink.

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.