What is the primary benefit of using breast milk for feeding infants?

The primary benefit of using breast milk for feeding infants is that it contains antibodies for immune support. Breast milk is uniquely designed to provide optimal nutrition and includes a variety of immunological factors that help protect infants against infections and diseases. Antibodies such as Immunoglobulin A (IgA) are present in high amounts in colostrum, the first milk produced after birth. These antibodies coat the baby's gut, helping to prevent pathogens from entering the bloodstream and reducing the risk of gastrointestinal infections.

Additionally, breast milk contains other bioactive components, like lactoferrin and lysozyme, that contribute to the infant's developing immune system. This protective effect is particularly crucial in the early months of life when a baby's immune system is still maturing. The combination of nutritional benefits and immune protection makes breastfeeding the preferred option for infant feeding, emphasizing the significance of breast milk in promoting infant health and development.