Absorption of Immunoglobulin in Babies

There are five types of immunoglobulins (antibodies), each with a specific function. Some develop in response to environmental irritants such as pet dander, while others develop to fight viral or bacterial infection. The extent to which an baby absorbs these immunoglobulins can have a significant effect on her ability to fight infection and remain healthy.

Types of Immunoglobulins

• The mucous membranes contain high amounts of immunoglobulin A (IgA), which often increases during an allergic reaction. Because all bodily fluids contain immunoglobulin G (IgG), it is the most easily detected immunoglobulin. Immunoglobulin M (IgM), present mostly in blood and fluid from the lymph nodes, is always the first immunoglobulin produced when the body detects an allergen or infection. Immunoglobulin E (IgE), also linked to allergic reactions, mainly develops in the skin, mucous membranes and lungs. Immunoglobulin D (IgD), can barely be detected in blood, and is therefore the one that doctors least understand.

Acquiring Immunoglobulins

• Breastfed babies have high levels of immunoglobulins.

  Babies develop the ability to produce their own immunoglobulins, but it happens slowly. While babies increase their immunoglobulins significantly between 2 and 8 months old, they still do not produce adult levels capable of fighting allergens and infection on their own. Studies show that babies who receive colostrum (early breast milk) in their earliest days have higher levels of immunoglobulins. So, although a baby can produce his own immunoglobulins, he will have an infection-fighting advantage if he receives colostrum.

Absorbing Immunoglobulins

• Breastfed babies absorb immunoglobulins from the intestinal tract as they digest colostrum. Babies who do not receive colostrum must produce immunoglobulins slowly as they age, absorbing them into their immune systems as their bodies allow. Because this happens gradually, formula-fed babies may experience higher risk of -- and incidence of -- viral and bacterial infections.

Promoting Immunoglobulin Absorption in Babies

• The most reliable way to promote a baby's absorption of immunoglobulins is to feed her colostrum in her earliest days. This ensures that she receives critical defenses against infection and does not have to produce them on her own. In a controlled study, babies as young as 5 days old who received colostrum showed significantly higher levels of immunoglobulins than those who did not receive colostrum. To promote immunity and prevent mortality, delivering immunoglobulins directly to a baby's intestines for quick absorption is tremendously beneficial to her health.