Breastfeeding may slow MS progression for offspring

Breastfeeding for longer during infancy may be linked to a later onset of multiple sclerosis (MS) and lower levels of disability in adulthood, according to a recent study from Turkey.

Researchers found that people living with MS who had been breastfed for more than six months as babies tended to have less severe disability compared with those who were breastfed for a shorter time. Each additional two months of breastfeeding was associated with lower scores on the Expanded Disability Status Scale, known as EDSS, which measures disability in MS.

The research team noted that long term breastfeeding may be linked to both a later age at diagnosis and a slower progression of MS. However, they also highlighted that the study was small and designed to observe patterns rather than prove cause and effect. Larger studies will be needed to confirm these findings.

Breastfeeding has previously been linked to a lower risk of several autoimmune conditions. Breast milk contains immune cells, antibodies and anti inflammatory molecules that support the development of a baby’s immune system. Scientists believe these early immune influences may have longer term effects on how the immune system responds later in life.

The study involved 105 adults with MS who attended a neurology clinic in Turkey between July and December 2023. Participants were asked about their early feeding history, including how long they were breastfed, alongside medical and background information. All took part in a clinical assessment.

Most participants were women, making up 70 per cent of the group. The average age was 38.7 years. The average EDSS score was 2.02, which reflects minimal disability.

All participants had received some breast milk, although for different lengths of time. Nineteen people, 18 per cent, were breastfed for less than six months. Twenty five, 24 per cent, were breastfed for six to 12 months. Sixty one, 58 per cent, were breastfed for more than 12 months.

Those who were breastfed for less than six months had a higher average EDSS score of 3.74. In comparison, people breastfed for six to 12 months had an average score of 1.92. Those breastfed for more than a year had the lowest average score at 1.52.

When researchers adjusted for age, type of MS, disease duration and treatment history, breastfeeding duration remained linked to disability levels. They calculated that every additional two months of breastfeeding was associated with a 0.487 point reduction in EDSS score.

The team also observed that people who were breastfed for longer appeared to develop MS at a slightly later age. Those breastfed for less than six months developed MS at an average age of 26.8 years. This compared with 30.1 years for those breastfed for six to 12 months and 30.9 years for those breastfed for more than a year.

The researchers suggested that bioactive components in breast milk that support immune development may help delay the onset of autoimmune conditions. They said their findings add to growing evidence that early life factors may influence how MS develops later on.

As with all research, these findings should be viewed in context. The study does not suggest that breastfeeding prevents MS, and many factors contribute to how MS develops and progresses. More research is needed to better understand the relationship.

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