Breast milk promotes colonies of healthy bacteria in a newborn's intestinal tract that aid nutrient absorption and immune system development, a new study shows.
Infant formula does not provide this benefit, which helps protect infants from infections and illnesses, the Duke University Medical Center researchers said.
The team grew two strains of E. coli bacteria in samples of breast milk, infant formulas (both milk- and soy-based) and cow's milk. The E. coli strains are necessary early inhabitants of the gut and are beneficial cousins of the E. coli strains that cause food poisoning.
Infant formula does not provide this benefit, which helps protect infants from infections and illnesses, the Duke University Medical Center researchers said.
The team grew two strains of E. coli bacteria in samples of breast milk, infant formulas (both milk- and soy-based) and cow's milk. The E. coli strains are necessary early inhabitants of the gut and are beneficial cousins of the E. coli strains that cause food poisoning.
