Infant’s Protection and Immunity Booster
The tremendous bonus is that breast milk assists a baby’s immune system and supports build-up alongside the nutritional benefits it gives.
Newborns are highly susceptible because they still have immature immune systems. Therefore, the mother’s milk provides immediate protection and aids a better immune stimulation. Further evidence suggesting six months of exclusive breastfeeding wards off infections; breast milk’s perfect nourishment helps babies fight off infection.
Breast milk contains beneficial antibodies. In addition, it has secretory immunoglobulin (IgA), the primary antibody that protects babies against common conditions like diarrhea, asthma, pneumonia, and other types of disease. Immunoglobulins are found in sweat, saliva, blood, and breast milk which circulate inside the body.
Babies are born with lower levels of IgA, but when a baby breastfeeds, they get high levels of IgA from breast milk. Immunoglobulins protect a baby’s intestinal tract and respiratory system to prevent germs from entering the body and bloodstream. In addition, IgA antibodies protect babies from various ailments caused by viruses, bacteria, fungi, and other parasites.
Immunoglobulins will continue to protect the baby as long as they breastfeed. And babies continue to benefit from immune-boosting nutrients in breast milk even after breastfeeding.
