Breastmilk, often referred to as “liquid gold,” has long been celebrated for its incredible nutritional and immunological benefits for infants. Amid the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, new research highlights its potential role in protecting babies from the virus. This study, led by immunologist Sarah Thompson in New York City, investigates the breastmilk of mothers who have recovered from COVID-19, revealing a strong immune response that could be vital during this health crisis.
Thompson, a dedicated mother of two who is also currently breastfeeding, is spearheading this research by collecting breastmilk samples from lactating women who have been exposed to the virus. Her commitment is evident as she navigates the city to gather samples, utilizing contactless methods to ensure safety while studying the possible protective benefits of breastmilk against COVID-19.
The research team aims to understand if breastmilk can confer immunity to infants and whether its components could be instrumental in developing treatments for the virus. Breastmilk is already known to contain natural antibodies that assist infants in combating infections. However, the unique challenges posed by the pandemic raise questions about its efficacy during such a widespread health crisis.
Antibodies, which are proteins produced by the immune system, play a crucial role in neutralizing pathogens like viruses and bacteria. While much attention has been given to antibodies found in blood for testing and therapeutic purposes, the potential of antibodies present in breastmilk has not been fully explored. Thompson and her colleagues have already been investigating how certain antibodies in breastmilk can offer protection against illnesses like influenza, prompting them to pivot their focus to COVID-19 when the pandemic arose.
Their preliminary findings, published recently, indicate that 80% of breastmilk samples from mothers who recovered from COVID-19 contained specific antibodies targeting the virus. These results underscore the importance of further research into breastmilk as a resource for infant health, particularly as it relates to COVID-19. Breastmilk antibodies, especially in their IgA form, are designed to withstand the conditions of an infant’s mouth and stomach, making them especially durable and potentially effective for therapeutic use.
The American Academy of Pediatrics supports continued breastfeeding during illness, stating that the benefits of breastfeeding far outweigh the risks, even when a mother has tested positive for COVID-19. They encourage mothers to continue pumping and provide expressed milk to their infants, even if they are temporarily separated due to quarantine.
Despite the promising findings, funding for breastmilk research remains limited, partly due to the stigma surrounding breastfeeding and the complexities involved in collecting human milk samples. However, Thompson has leveraged her experiences as a mother to connect with other lactating women, successfully gathering support for her studies.
As the urgency for effective COVID-19 treatments grows, Thompson’s research is gaining attention. She has collected numerous samples and has a waiting list of participants eager to contribute. This work not only aims to advance understanding of COVID-19 but also seeks to fill critical gaps in breastmilk research.
For those interested in learning more about home insemination, including resources for pregnancy and breastfeeding, you can explore links to helpful articles from sites like Make a Mom and Mount Sinai.
In summary, research into the breastmilk of mothers who have recovered from COVID-19 reveals a strong immune response, underscoring the importance of breastfeeding during the pandemic. Continued studies could significantly enhance our understanding of how breastmilk can protect infants from various diseases, including COVID-19.