Long-term exclusive breastfeeding is linked to better overall health in children, a link reinforced by a recent study. Researchers found that breastfeeding for more than three months may prevent asthma by promoting a healthy microbiome in the gut and nasal passages.
Research shows that breastfeeding and microbial colonization during infancy play a crucial role in influencing respiratory disease risk. However, the exact mechanisms by which these factors provide beneficial effects remain unclear.
in the latest study Writing in the journal Cell, researchers highlight the importance of extended breastfeeding for respiratory health. Results indicate that strong microbial colonization patterns as well as breast milk composition have a protective effect on asthma in preschool children.
Research has found that breastfeeding for more than three months contributes to the gradual development of the baby's digestive system and upper respiratory tract microbiota. In contrast, stopping breastfeeding early disrupts this process and is associated with a higher risk of asthma in preschoolers.
“We found that premature cessation of breastfeeding (before three months) resulted in premature acquisition of microbial species and functions, including Ruminococcus and tryptophan biosynthesis, previously implicated in immune regulation and asthma. In contrast, longer periods of exclusive breastfeeding promote microbial development and prevent asthma,” the researchers wrote.
“Just like a pacemaker regulates the heart rhythm, breastfeeding and breast milk determine the speed and sequence of microbial colonization of the infant's gut and nasal cavities, ensuring that this process occurs in an orderly and timely manner. Healthy microbiome development is not important. Only The problem is having the right microbes, and they also need to arrive in the right order at the right time,” co-senior researcher Liat Shenhav said in a report. Press release.
“Our study highlights the profound impact of breastfeeding on the infant microbiome and the important role of breastfeeding in supporting respiratory health. By uncovering the mechanisms behind breast milk's protective effects, as demonstrated in this study, we aim to Informing national breastfeeding and weaning guidelines Through further research, our findings could also help develop strategies to prevent asthma in children who have been unable to breastfeed for at least three months.