BREASTFEEDING AND THE INFANTS'S MICROBIOME

What is the microbiome?

Microbiome is the collection of all the microbes (tiny organism) including bacteria, fungi, protozoa and viruses that live on and inside the human body.

Why is it important? 

Countless studies have proven that microbes play a major in supporting our overall health. They help shape some very important things like our immune system, digestive system and even the brain.

How do babies acquire these microbes? 

1. A baby’s first dose of beneficial bacteria or microorganisms comes from the vaginal flora during birth as the baby travels through the birth canal.

2. The second source comes from the mother’s breast milk. As the baby suckles at the breast, it picks up more microbes from its mother’s skin. And, it also consumes microbes from its mother’s gut that has infiltrated her breast milk.

Breastfeeding and Gut Bacteria: What’s The Link?

Breastfeeding establishes the ecosystem of a healthy gut microbiome in babies; building their immune system and offering long-term health benefits including;

• Breastmilk is customised for each baby. It protects and transfers good bacteria from the mother to the baby’s intestinal tract. 

• Bacteria and natural prebiotics in breastmilk help build your baby’s microbiome.

• The higher level of ‘good’ gut bacteria in breastfed babies leads to healthier growth patterns and a stronger immune system.

• Breastmilk protects your baby from various other diseases. Yes, breastfed babies have a lower risk of asthma, wheezing, bacterial infections, obesity, allergies, inflammatory bowel disease (IBS), neurodevelopmental disorders, gastroenteritis, and rotavirus.

• Bacteria in the microbiome also helps your baby to produce vitamins including Vitamin B12, thiamine and riboflavin and Vitamin K. 

Takeaway

Your breastmilk doesn't just feed your baby, it also feeds and builds your baby’s microbiome, which is absolutely vital for his/her healthy growth and development.