The role of breastfeeding in improving the immune system and preventing respiratory infections in children
DOI:
10.52832/jesh.v5i3.551Keywords:
Breastfeeding, Respiratory tract diseases, Adaptive immunityAbstract
The study sought to verify evidence that proves the benefits of breastfeeding in immunological protection and in the prevention of respiratory infections in children, highlighting its main bioactive components. Integrative literature review carried out in the National Library of Medicine (PubMed), Medical Literature Analysis and Retrieval System Online (MEDLINE) and Latin American and Caribbean Literature in Health Sciences (LILACS) databases in November 2024. Articles published in English, Portuguese and Spanish, from 2019 to 2024, were included. The search used the following Health Sciences Descriptors (DeCs): “Breast Feeding”, “Respiratory Tract Infections”, “Infant”, combined by AND. A total of 101 studies were identified, evaluated by titles, abstracts and full reading, selecting, in the end, 07 articles. Early and exclusive breastfeeding plays a crucial role in preventing respiratory diseases such as bronchiolitis, pneumonia, SARS-CoV-2 and asthma, due to the immunological components of breast milk, such as immunoglobulins, lactoferrin and oligosaccharides. In addition, it contributes to reducing the need for hospitalizations and medical interventions. Exclusive breastfeeding significantly strengthens the infant's immune system, reducing the risk of respiratory infections and promoting protection against pathogens. The action of the bioactive components of breast milk is essential for the respiratory and immunological health of infants, making breastfeeding an effective strategy for disease prevention.
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