A viewpoint of mucosal immunity in relation to early feeding method

Abstract

Summary Atopic diseases are common health problems in society and their incidence is increasing unabated. A number of studies in animal models have shown that antigen‐specific IgE suppression could be induced for the treatment of allergic disorders. Many of the present therapeutic strategies in children have not been entirely successful and early breastfeeding could provide a practicable means of helping the affected children. An overview of the mucosal immune system is hereby presented to explain the natural mechanisms involved in protecting organisms from allergic reactions to food and other non‐harmful antigens presented at the mucosal surfaces. The protective role of early breastfeeding in modulating this natural phenomenon is emphasized. The undeniable limitations of breastfeeding in the management of some peculiar cases of childhood dietary protein intolerance are also highlighted.

Maternal Infectious Diseases, Antimicrobial Therapy or Immunizations: Very few Contraindications to Breastfeeding

“…There are many benefits associated with breastfeeding, including nutritional, immunological, psychological, developmental, environmental, social, economic and health (eg, decrease in infectious diseases) (2)(3)(4). To promote, protect and support breastfeeding, every effort must be made to minimize contraindications to breastfeeding, particularly unnecessary ones.…”