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Factors affecting breast milk composition and potential consequences for development of the allergic phenotype
Author(s) -
Munblit D.,
Boyle R. J.,
Warner J. O.
Publication year - 2015
Publication title -
clinical and experimental allergy
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 1.462
H-Index - 154
eISSN - 1365-2222
pISSN - 0954-7894
DOI - 10.1111/cea.12381
Subject(s) - colostrum , breastfeeding , breast milk , breast feeding , immunology , medicine , immune system , sensitization , lactation , composition (language) , physiology , biology , pregnancy , pediatrics , antibody , biochemistry , linguistics , genetics , philosophy
Summary There is conflicting evidence on the protective role of breastfeeding in relation to allergic sensitization and disease. The factors in breast milk which influence these processes are still unclear and under investigation. We know that colostrum and breast milk contain a variety of molecules which can influence immune responses in the gut‐associated lymphoid tissue of a neonate. This review summarizes the evidence that variations in colostrum and breast milk composition can influence allergic outcomes in the infant, and the evidence that maternal and environmental factors can modify milk composition. Taken together, the data presented support the possibility that maternal dietary interventions may be an effective way to promote infant health through modification of breast milk composition.