Up to what age does breast milk immunize children?

We have been hearing for decades that breast milk benefits the immune system, but up to what age does breast milk immunize children?

Breastfeeding is the ideal food for all newborns. The current recommendations of the World Health Organization ( WHO ) and the main pediatric scientific societies such as the Spanish Association of Pediatrics ( AEP ) recommend exclusive breastfeeding until 6 months of age and subsequently until the age that the mother and child baby decide.

When does breastfeeding start to have a protective effect?

From birth, breastfeeding fulfills a tremendous immunological function, transmitting "defenses" to the baby against multiple organisms and also providing the baby with essential nutrients for the correct development of the immune system.

There are multiple studies that speak of the protective role of breastfeeding against chronic diseases such as asthma, atopic dermatitis, inflammatory diseases, and multiple other pathologies. Without a doubt, the slightest drop of breast milk is gold no matter the moment it is taken.

It may be thought that the immune function disappears as the child gets older, but that is not the case, the protective role lasts over time and even if the child is three years old it will continue to help protect him or her against infections or chronic diseases.

What benefits does breastfeeding provide?

• Protection against respiratory diseases (asthma, otitis), and gastrointestinal and urinary diseases.
• Better development of teeth with lower risk of acute pathologies.
• Reduction in the risk of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS).
• Better brain development thanks to the fatty acids present in it.
• Lower risk of allergies, celiac disease, diabetes, inflammatory bowel disease, and even some types of lymphomas.
• Lower risk of obesity, hypertension, and even dyslipidemia.

Until what age can you breastfeed?

Breastfeeding can be continued for as long as the mother and baby wish. There are no contraindications for prolonged breastfeeding and, as we have mentioned, its benefits are multiple. The current delicate social situation and work-life balance problems mean that breastfeeding lasts less than desired.

From the pediatrician's office, we will always help and support mothers who wish to breastfeed since we are aware of the enormous benefit it brings to children, their mothers, and society in general.