Breastfeeding Changes How Baby Genes Work, Study Finds
Summary
A large international study found that babies who were exclusively breastfed for at least three months show specific changes in how their genes work years later. These changes, related to the immune system, appear in the form of chemical marks on DNA called DNA methylation, which can turn genes on or off without changing the genetic code.Key Facts
- The study involved over 3,400 children from 11 different countries.
- Researchers compared gene markers in children who were exclusively breastfed for at least three months to those who were not.
- Changes in DNA methylation were found on genes linked to immune system function and development.
- These epigenetic changes were not present at birth but appeared after breastfeeding began.
- Researchers took blood samples from umbilical cords at birth and from children aged 5 to 12 for comparison.
- The study does not prove that these gene changes directly improve health outcomes.
- Breastfeeding is already known to reduce risks of asthma, obesity, diabetes, infections, and sudden infant death syndrome for babies.
- Breastfeeding also lowers mothers’ risks of breast and ovarian cancer, Type 2 diabetes, and high blood pressure.
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