Introduction
Human breast milk is the optimal source of nutrition for the infant. Human milk is rich in powerful bioactive compounds that provide a range of protective and developmental benefits for infants. From antibodies and immune-boosting proteins to essential fatty acids and growth factors, human breast milk is a nutritional powerhouse that is unparalleled in its ability to support the healthy growth and development of babies.
Key Bioactive Components of Human Milk Supporting Immune Health
Antibodies (immunoglobulins): One of the key components of breast milk is its high concentration of antibodies, specifically secretory IgA and IgA which helps to protect babies from infections and illnesses. These antibodies provide passive immunity to infants, helping to strengthen their developing immune systems and protect them from a wide range of pathogens.
Lactoferrin and Lysozyme: Human milk contains high levels of antimicrobial compounds like lactoferrin and lysozyme, which exhibit antimicrobial properties. Lactoferrin helps inhibit the growth of bacteria, viruses, and fungi, while lysozyme promotes gut health by acts acting as a natural antibiotic.,
Polyunsaturated Fatty Acids (PUFA): Breast milk also provides essential fatty acids, such as omega-3 and omega-6, which are crucial for, cognitive, and brain development in infants. These fatty acids are not only important for the growth of the baby’s brain but also support the development of their vision and nervous system.
Growth Factors: Furthermore, human milk contains a multitude of growth factors, such as insulin-like growth factor (IGF) and epidermal growth factor (EGF), which aid in the development of the infant’s gastrointestinal tract, protect against inflammations, and help to promote overall growth and development.4,
Prebiotics and Probiotics: Human milk contains beneficial bacteria (probiotics) that contribute to the development of a healthy gut microbiota in infants. Prebiotics, such as human milk oligosaccharides (HMOs), serve as nourishment for these probiotics and establish a healthy balance of beneficial bacteria in the baby’s digestive system, providing protection against infections and supporting proper digestion.1,4
Conclusion
In conclusion, human breast milk is not only a source of essential nutrients, but also a rich and unique composition of bioactive compounds that provide a level of protection and support that cannot be replicated by any other form of nutrition. Its unique composition of antibodies, essential fatty acids, growth factors, and microbiome-supporting compounds provides unbeatable protection and support for the growing infant. It’s no wonder that human breast milk is the best optimal nutrition for its unparalleled richness and benefits for babies.
References
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- Rio-Aige K, Azagra-Boronat I, Castell M, et al. The Breast Milk Immunoglobulinome. Nutrients.2021;13(6):1810. doi:10.3390/nu13061810
- Ballard O, Morrow AL. Human milk composition: nutrients and bioactive factors. Pediatr Clin North Am.2013;60(1):49-74. doi:10.1016/j.pcl.2012.10.002
- Ferraboschi P, Ciceri S, Grisenti P. Applications of Lysozyme, an Innate Immune Defense Factor, as an Alternative Antibiotic. Antibiotics (Basel). 2021;10(12):1534. doi:10.3390/antibiotics10121534
- Hahn-Holbrook J, Fish A, Glynn LM. Human Milk Omega-3 Fatty Acid Composition is Associated with Infant Temperament. Nutrients. 2019;11(12):2964. Published 2019 Dec 4. doi:10.3390/nu11122964
- Carr LE, Virmani MD, Rosa F, et al. Role of Human Milk Bioactives on Infants’ Gut and Immune Health. Front Immunol. 2021;12:604080. doi:10.3389/fimmu.2021.604080