It’s a shocking discovery.
A recent study highlights that breastfeeding during an infant’s first year can significantly lower the risk of asthma by promoting the growth of a healthy gut microbiome. Published in the journal Cell, the research found that breastfeeding beyond three months supports the gradual maturation of an infant’s microbiome, which is essential for proper immune system development. Conversely, weaning before this period can disrupt microbiome development, increasing the risk of asthma during early childhood.
Breast milk is rich in complex sugars and nutrients that nourish beneficial gut bacteria. In contrast, baby formula supports a different set of microbes, which, when introduced too early, may lead to higher asthma risks. Researchers pointed out that these formula-fed microbes, while eventually present in all infants, arriving too soon can be problematic for immune health. This early microbial shift may explain the link between shorter breastfeeding durations and higher asthma rates.
The study tracked the microbiome changes in infants’ guts and noses, involving data from a large Canadian research project. It found that the early presence of a specific bacteria, Ruminococcus gnavus, in infants weaned early from breast milk, may contribute to immune issues like asthma. This bacterium is linked to tryptophan metabolism, which has been associated with immune system disorders, providing further insight into how the microbiome influences respiratory health.
Even after accounting for other environmental factors such as smoke exposure or antibiotic use, the duration of breastfeeding remained a critical factor in shaping the infant’s microbiome. Using their findings, researchers developed a model showing that breastfeeding plays a key role in reducing asthma risk by influencing gut microbial development.
The study’s authors emphasize the need for data-driven national guidelines on breastfeeding and weaning. They also suggest that further research could help develop strategies to prevent asthma in infants who are unable to breastfeed for extended periods. This study reinforces the vital role that breastfeeding plays in supporting both gut health and respiratory well-being in early childhood.
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