Microbial DNA Signatures in Breast Milk: Boon for Child's Health

Gupta PD and Pushkala K

Published on: 2024-05-06

Abstract

Breast milk (BM) is a “perfect and complete food,” for a new born baby. It differs qualitatively, quantitatively and the stage of feeding. The microbiota in mother's milk confirmed by DNA signatures contributes to the colonization of the intestinal bacterial population of the new-born. Breast milk proves to be a source of potential probiotics to maintain infant health since, it contains nutritional components, antioxidants, enzymes, immune factors or principles, live antibodies from the mother, immunomodulatory molecules including immunoglobulins and antimicrobial peptides. Breast feeding also helps to provide long-term benefits for the child as well as for the mother to come out of the stress. Healthy mother and a child reduce social and behavioural problems as well.