Why does breastfeeding help decrease the rate of necrotizing enterocolitis in infants?

Breast milk plays a crucial role in promoting gut maturity, which is vital for reducing the incidence of necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC) in infants, particularly in preterm infants. The components of breast milk, including specific proteins, fats, and immunoglobulins, contribute to the development and maturation of the gastrointestinal (GI) tract.

Breast milk is rich in growth factors and bioactive compounds that enhance the structural integrity of the intestines. It helps in the maturation of the intestinal epithelium and promotes the development of a healthy gut microbiome, which further supports the digestive system's ability to handle nutrients and resist pathogenic microorganisms. This increased gut maturity helps to protect against conditions like NEC, which is characterized by inflammation and tissue death in the intestines.

In contrast, while breastfeeding does increase caloric intake and may support overall growth, this is not the primary mechanism by which it reduces the risk of NEC. Breastfeeding does have protective effects against infections, which can indirectly benefit gut health, but again, the direct influence on gut maturity is more significant. Finally, breast milk typically has a different protein content in comparison to formula, but the focus here is on the functional aspects of gut health rather than protein quantity.

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