Breast milk: a probiotic food
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Abstract
Introduction: It is known that breast milk is an essential food for newborns until at least 6 months of age. Among other substances, breast milk contains microorganisms, which benefit the baby's health when present in adequate quantities. Objectives: Correlate the presence of microorganisms in breast milk and their benefits to the newborn, attributing probiotic characteristics to this food. Methods: Thus, the present work reviewed the literature, selecting works available on the PubMed platform that explored the composition and benefits of this food, as well as its probiotic properties. Data synthesis: It was observed that the genera of bacteria Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium, widely known as probiotics, are found in breast milk, and that the composition of the milk influences their presence. The composition, in turn, can be influenced by the maternal lifestyle, including the incidence of psychopathologies such as depression, anxiety and stress. Conclusions: It was concluded that, without a doubt, breast milk can be considered a probiotic food, with the advantage of easy access and no cost, making it the best alternative to nourish and promote the health of the newborn.
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