|
|
Question: From London, United Kingdom:
I have a child of four who has been diagnosed with type 1 diabetes for two years, and a younger child. If I had diabetes, particularly pre-clinical diabetes, could I pass this on to my child by breastfeeding? After all, other immunities are apparently passed on in breast milk. I have a child of four who has been diagnosed with type 1 diabetes for two years, and a younger child.
Answer:
The evidence on this theme is sparse, but such as it is, it suggests that the transmission of autoantibodies such as anti-GAD. either by the placenta or in breast milk does not induce type 1A (autoimmune) diabetes in the infant. In fact, there is quite a lot of other work showing that the early substitution of formula for breast milk actually increases the possibility of type 1 diabetes developing in the child.
On the other hand, in the case of type 2 diabetes, there is some evidence that prolonged breast feeding may ultimately induce obesity and type 2 diabetes in the child.
DTQ-20020826184651
Original posting 30 Aug 2002
Posted to Research: Causes and Prevention
Advertisement
Last Updated: Sun Jan 15 12:11:16 2006
This Internet site provides information of a general nature and is designed for educational purposes only. If you have any concerns about your own health or the health of your child, you should always consult with a physician or other health care professional.
This site is published by Children With Diabetes, Inc, which is responsible for its contents.
By using this site, you agree to our Terms of Use, Legal Notice and Privacy Policy.
© Children with Diabetes, Inc. 1995-2008. Comments and Feedback.