bebeklik-cagindaki-immun-risk-faktorleri
Immune Risk Factors in Infancy
Immune Risk Factors in Infancy
Galip Kırıcı, M.D.

From the beginning of the baby's nine-month journey in the womb, throughout its birth and development, many factors shape and influence the baby's immune system. To summarize:

  1. Cesarean sections are the most common cause of dysbiosis (disruption of the balance of intestinal bacteria).
    According to information published by the WHO, Cesarean sections are preferred by 15% of the world, while in our country, they are performed at a rate of 53.2%. According to this information, our country ranks third in the world after China and Brazil in performing the most Cesarean sections.
    After Cesarean sections, the immune system can only reconcile after one year.
  2. Diabetes and obesity are significantly increasing in children in Turkey. These are also immune risk factors. A baby rabbit doubles its birth weight in 6 days, in cattle in 47 days, and in humans in approximately 180 days. Therefore, any milk given other than breast milk causes obesity.
  3. Breast milk is the first symbiotic. In other words, it is effective in a child's adaptation to life. It has significant effects on a child's work success, popularity, and healthy aging. Therefore, it should be remembered that breast milk plays a crucial role in protecting and developing a baby's immune system. Pure breast milk should be given for the first six months and should be discontinued around age two.
  4. Among maternal factors, factors such as the mother's antibiotic use, stress, nutrition, etc., play a role in the development of the baby's immune system. Breast milk plays a significant role in the formation of the baby's microbiota. The first 1000 days of a baby's life are especially important for the development of the immune system. Therefore, breastfeeding mothers should be careful about the medications they use, try to avoid stress, and maintain a balanced diet.
  5. Antibiotic use is high in Turkey. Nearly 40% of prescriptions contain antibiotics. Antibiotic use plays a significant role in disrupting the balance of intestinal bacteria and is detrimental to the microbiome in all age groups. The true microbiome develops within 100 days after antibiotic use. Antibiotics should always be administered after an antibiogram is performed.
  6. Allergic reactions and diseases also weaken the immune system.

Given these scientific facts, we can say that nutrition for both mothers and babies is crucial in boosting immunity. Breast milk should be preferred for babies, while mothers should follow a balanced diet rich in natural and seasonal fruits and vegetables. Antibiotic use should be limited as much as possible, stress should be avoided, and vaginal birth should be preferred.