Dr. Alex Jimenez, El Paso's Chiropractor
I hope you have enjoyed our blog posts on various health, nutritional and injury related topics. Please don't hesitate in calling us or myself if you have questions when the need to seek care arises. Call the office or myself. Office 915-850-0900 - Cell 915-540-8444 Great Regards. Dr. J

Immunology of Breast Milk

Science and technology have elucidated important information about neonates and infants’ applications and benefits from breast milk’s immunology. Nevertheless, breastfeeding and lactation always had healing and sometimes (called) magical powers associated with them.

Human milk and breastfeeding are important parts of community health. Also, historically human milk was linked to miracles, such as the one involving St. Bernard, in which human milk healed his eye infection in addition to giving the gift of great wisdom.

Human milk components:

The wealth of biologically active components that human milk provides to the suckling neonate have proven to be effective and essential to human development and survival. The main products of human lactation are colostrum and milk. They provide immunologic and microbiological protection mediated by the mother’s prior experiences. Furthermore, the main biologically active components are Secretory IgA, nutritional components, hormones, cytokines and chemokines, casein, polysaccharides, oligosaccharides, and lipids.

The historical science of breast milk’s immunology started with Dr. Lars Hanson and Gugler and von Muralt. In fact, the discovery of secretory IgA (SIgA) was followed by identifying multiple soluble and cellular immunologic elements in breast milk and how it was transported to the neonate by breastfeeding. More recently, information about the immunologic activity attributed to the biologically active products in human milk and their function on the mucosal immune system has been present in multiple studies.

Immunology of human milk:
Milk’s active immunological products are:

1.- Secreted and synthesized by the mammary glands.

2.- All the compounds and products depend directly on the maternal bloodstream and circulation.

3.- These compounds are transported, selectively and specifically, from the mucosa-associated lymphoid tissue located in multiple sites such as nasopharynx, bronchoepithelial mucosal sites, and sublingual lymphoid tissue.

Colostrum is the product to be secreted by the mammary glands after birth. Its composition is described by being dense in protein and fat as well as immunologic components. On the other hand, mature milk has less protein, fat, and it has been reported to have a decreased number of immunologic components. In fact, these diminished amounts of immune factors are mainly associated with the fact that the infant has developed a better immunologic response. Also, the secretion of mature milk is orchestrated by many factors, including endocrine signaling, maternal-infant stimulation, and neural interactions. These actions will contribute to the stimulation of neural pathways needed to maintain prolactin and oxytocin.

Soluble components
Immunoglobulins:

As mentioned before, immunoglobulins levels have been reported to decrease or change depending on the lactation time. The highest levels of SIgA and IgG are observed during the first 3-5 days of lactation. Also, IgA levels are 4-5 times higher than IgM and 26-30 times higher than IgG levels. Besides, there are multiple isotypes of SIgA: 11SIgA is one of the major isotypes, followed by 7SIgA, IgG, IgM, and IgG, while IgE is occasionally observed.

11SIgA is a dimer composed of 2 molecules of 7SIgA by a polypeptide chain associated with a secretory component. Furthermore, observational studies have found that IgA levels drop rapidly as lactation progresses, but an increased amount of milk production compensates. Also, it is reported that a fully breastfed infant ingests 1g of IgA per day.

In terms of reactivity, studies involving the actions of IgA and microorganisms like Escherichia coli 083 and Streptococcus pneumoniae show that IgA levels in milk rise independently from serum levels. Furthermore, this shows an enteromammary and bronchomammary axis, and when exposed to antigens, it promotes the IgA secretion into the mammary glands.

Antisecretory factor:

This hormone-like factor binds to certain polysaccharides and is produced by many tissues, including the mammary glands. Furthermore, this compound has been found in human milk in poor socioeconomic settings, possibly induced by enterotoxin- producing bacteria. Antisecretory factor beneficial effects include anti-inflammation; it has been useful on diarrhea reduction and inflammatory bowel disease.

Soluble CD14 and Soluble Toll-Like Receptor.

The function of colostrum´s CD14 has been associated with its binding action to lipopolysaccharides and allowing a better cleavage to the TLR-4 receptor and posterior phagocyte activation, showing that milk’s CD14 activates gut mucosal phagocytes in the presence of gram-positive and gram-negative organisms.

Cytokines.

Over 150 cytokines have been previously identified in human milk. Furthermore, the different immunomodulating roles of cytokines are:

1.- Growth and differentiation of immunoglobulin products of B cells.

2.- Promotion of thymocyte proliferation.

3.- Suppression of IgE production.

4.- Inhibition of IL-2 production by T cells.

Chemokines

These are described as specific and selective small cytokines; they serve as signaling to mobilize phagocytes to an inflamed area. One of these chemokines found in human milk is IL-8.

IL-7 has also been recovered from human milk. This growth factor is involved in thymic growth and, therefore, the enhancement of the individual’s immunological response.

Cellular components:
Leukocytes:

These elements are found in colostrum and early milk in 1–3 × 106 leukocytes/mL, sometimes even more. Conversely, these levels seem to decline gradually with the continuation of breastfeeding, and they can go as low as <1 × 106/mL over the next 2–3 months of lactation. Also, in the presence of maternal infection, milk leukocyte levels are known to increase until the infection is resolved.

Macrophages:

Milk macrophages show various functional and phenotypic characteristics, such as producing cytokines like IL-1?, IL-6, TNF-?, and GM-CSF. Nevertheless, macrophages can provide antigen presentation and can synthesize plasminogen activator, lysozyme, prostaglandin E2, and C3.

Epithelial cells:

Cells from the milk ducts, myoepithelial cells, and alveolar epithelial cells can be found in the colostrum. Therefore, this shows that epithelial cells found in the colostrum are detached from the mammary glands’ stroma. Additional studies to determine the function that these epithelial cells have on the infant’s health are needed.

Stem cells and lymphocytes are commonly found in human milk. In fact, stem cells have shown cell differentiation properties in milk and can turn into cells of other lineages like hepatocytes, adipocytes, and pancreatic B-cells. On the other hand, compared to the large number of leukocytes found in milk, lymphocytes account for about 4-6% of the total cells.

In conclusion: the benefits of breastfeeding

In conclusion, human milk has beneficial immune properties, and these properties are specific to the infant’s needs. Also, colostrum’s important features and its components make the neonate the most important vehicle of immunologic protection. Nevertheless, there are still numerous bioactive compounds found in human milk that need further studies. In order to provide a better and tailored diet to pregnant women, DNA tests can be used.

Healthy diet, healthy genes:

After reading all of this interesting information you might feel a little confused about what to do to improve your genetic code. I mean, that idea would definitely be on my mind if I was pregnant. Since studies show that maternal immunity can infuence neonate immunological reactions and everything is linked to gut permeability, I will provide you some options to change your daily gluten intake and improve your dietary fiber:

  • Millet
  • Quinoa
  • Oats
  • Rice (basmati, bran, brown, wild)
  • Rye
  • Amaranth
  • Tapioca
  • Corn
  • Kamut
  • Teff

-Ana Paola Rodríguez Arciniega. Master in Clinical Nutrition

References:

Baldassarre, Maria Elisabetta, et al. “Administration of a multi-strain probiotic product to women in the perinatal period differentially affects the breast milk cytokine profile and may have beneficial effects on neonatal gastrointestinal functional symptoms. A randomized clinical trial.” Nutrients 8.11 (2016): 677.

Ogra, Pearay L. “Immunology of Human Milk and Lactation: Historical Overview.” Milk, Mucosal Immunity, and the Microbiome: Impact on the Neonate. Vol. 94. Karger Publishers, 2020. 11-26.

Dr. Alex Jimenez’s Blog Post

Disclaimer

Our information scope is limited to chiropractic, musculoskeletal, physical medicines, wellness, and sensitive health issues and functional medicine articles, topics, and discussions. We provide and present clinical collaboration with specialists from a wide array of disciplines. Each specialist is governed by their professional scope of practice and their jurisdiction of licensure. We use functional health & wellness protocols to treat and support care for the musculoskeletal system’s injuries or disorders. Our posts, topics, subjects, and insights cover clinical matters, issues, and topics that relate and support, directly or indirectly, our clinical scope of practice.* Our office has made a reasonable attempt to provide supportive citations and has identified the relevant research study or studies supporting our posts. We also make copies of supporting research studies available to the board and or the public upon request. We understand that we cover matters that require an additional explanation of how it may assist in a particular care plan or treatment protocol; therefore, to further discuss the subject matter above, please feel free to ask Dr. Alex Jimenez or contact us at 915-850-0900.  The provider(s) Licensed in Texas*& New Mexico* 

Post Disclaimer

Professional Scope of Practice *

The information herein on "Immunology of Breast Milk" is not intended to replace a one-on-one relationship with a qualified health care professional or licensed physician and is not medical advice. We encourage you to make healthcare decisions based on your research and partnership with a qualified healthcare professional.

Blog Information & Scope Discussions

Our information scope is limited to Chiropractic, musculoskeletal, acupuncture, physical medicines, wellness, contributing etiological viscerosomatic disturbances within clinical presentations, associated somatovisceral reflex clinical dynamics, subluxation complexes, sensitive health issues, and/or functional medicine articles, topics, and discussions.

We provide and present clinical collaboration with specialists from various disciplines. Each specialist is governed by their professional scope of practice and their jurisdiction of licensure. We use functional health & wellness protocols to treat and support care for the injuries or disorders of the musculoskeletal system.

Our videos, posts, topics, subjects, and insights cover clinical matters, issues, and topics that relate to and directly or indirectly support our clinical scope of practice.*

Our office has reasonably attempted to provide supportive citations and has identified the relevant research studies supporting our posts. We provide copies of supporting research studies available to regulatory boards and the public upon request.

We understand that we cover matters that require an additional explanation of how it may assist in a particular care plan or treatment protocol; therefore, to further discuss the subject matter above, please feel free to ask Dr. Alex Jimenez, DC, or contact us at 915-850-0900.

We are here to help you and your family.

Blessings

Dr. Alex Jimenez DC, MSACP, RN*, CCST, IFMCP*, CIFM*, ATN*

email: coach@elpasofunctionalmedicine.com

Licensed as a Doctor of Chiropractic (DC) in Texas & New Mexico*
Texas DC License # TX5807, New Mexico DC License # NM-DC2182

Licensed as a Registered Nurse (RN*) in Florida
Florida License RN License # RN9617241 (Control No. 3558029)
Compact Status: Multi-State License: Authorized to Practice in 40 States*

Presently Matriculated: ICHS: MSN* FNP (Family Nurse Practitioner Program)

Dr. Alex Jimenez DC, MSACP, RN* CIFM*, IFMCP*, ATN*, CCST
My Digital Business Card

Again  We Welcome You¸

Our Purpose & Passions: I am a Doctor of Chiropractic specializing in progressive, cutting-edge therapies and functional rehabilitation procedures focused on clinical physiology, total health, practical strength training, and complete conditioning. We focus on restoring normal body functions after neck, back, spinal and soft tissue injuries.

We use Specialized Chiropractic Protocols, Wellness Programs, Functional & Integrative Nutrition, Agility & Mobility Fitness Training, and Rehabilitation Systems for all ages.

As an extension to effective rehabilitation, we too offer our patients, disabled veterans, athletes, young and elder a diverse portfolio of strength equipment, high-performance exercises, and advanced agility treatment options. We have teamed up with the cities premier doctors, therapists, and trainers to provide high-level competitive athletes the possibilities to push themselves to their highest abilities within our facilities.

We’ve been blessed to use our methods with thousands of El Pasoans over the last three decades allowing us to restore our patients’ health and fitness while implementing researched non-surgical methods and functional wellness programs.

Our programs are natural and use the body’s ability to achieve specific measured goals, rather than introducing harmful chemicals, controversial hormone replacement, unwanted surgeries, or addictive drugs. We want you to live a functional life that is fulfilled with more energy, a positive attitude, better sleep, and less pain. Our goal is to ultimately empower our patients to maintain the healthiest way of living.

With a bit of work, we can achieve optimal health together, no matter the age or disability.

Join us in improving your health for you and your family.

It’s all about: LIVING, LOVING & MATTERING!

Welcome & God Bless

EL PASO LOCATIONS

East Side: Main Clinic*
11860 Vista Del Sol, Ste 128
Phone: 915-412-6677

Central: Rehabilitation Center
6440 Gateway East, Ste B
Phone: 915-850-0900

North East Rehabilitation Center
7100 Airport Blvd, Ste. C
Phone: 915-412-6677

Dr. Alex Jimenez DC, MSACP, CIFM, IFMCP, ATN, CCST
My Digital Business Card

Clinic Location 1

Address: 11860 Vista Del Sol Dr Suite 128
El Paso, TX 79936
Phone
: (915) 850-0900
EmailSend Email
WebDrAlexJimenez.com

Clinic Location 2

Address: 6440 Gateway East, Building B
El Paso, TX 79905
Phone: (915) 850-0900
EmailSend Email
WebElPasoBackClinic.com

Clinic Location 3

Address: 1700 N Zaragoza Rd # 117
El Paso, TX 79936
Phone: (915) 850-0900
EmailSend Email
WebChiropracticScientist.com

Just Play Fitness & Rehab*

Address: 7100 Airport Blvd, Suite C
El Paso, TX 79906
Phone: (915) 850-0900
EmailSend Email
WebChiropracticScientist.com

Push As Rx & Rehab

Address: 6440 Gateway East, Building B
El Paso, TX 79905
Phone
: (915) 412-6677
EmailSend Email
WebPushAsRx.com

Push 24/7

Address: 1700 E Cliff Dr
El Paso, TX 79902
Phone
: (915) 412-6677
EmailSend Email
WebPushAsRx.com

EVENTS REGISTRATION: Live Events & Webinars*

(Come Join Us & Register Today)

Call (915) 850-0900 Today!

Rated Top El Paso Doctor & Specialist by RateMD* | Years 2014, 2015, 2016, 2017, 2018, 2019, 2020 & 2021

Best Chiropractor In El Paso

Scan QR Code Here - Connect Here With Dr. Jimenez Personally

Qrcode Chiropractor
Dr. Jimenez QR Code

Additional Online Links & Resources (Available 24/7)

  1. Online Appointments or Consultations:  bit.ly/Book-Online-Appointment
  2. Online Physical Injury / Accident Intake Form:  bit.ly/Fill-Out-Your-Online-History
  3. Online Functional Medicine Assessment:  bit.ly/functionmed

Disclaimer *

The information herein is not intended to replace a one-on-one relationship with a qualified health care professional, licensed physician, and is not medical advice. We encourage you to make your own health care decisions based on your research and partnership with a qualified health care professional. Our information scope is limited to chiropractic, musculoskeletal, physical medicines, wellness, sensitive health issues, functional medicine articles, topics, and discussions. We provide and present clinical collaboration with specialists from a wide array of disciplines. Each specialist is governed by their professional scope of practice and their jurisdiction of licensure. We use functional health & wellness protocols to treat and support care for the injuries or disorders of the musculoskeletal system. Our videos, posts, topics, subjects, and insights cover clinical matters, issues, and topics that relate to and support, directly or indirectly, our clinical scope of practice.* Our office has made a reasonable attempt to provide supportive citations and has identified the relevant research study or studies supporting our posts. We provide copies of supporting research studies available to regulatory boards and the public upon request.

We understand that we cover matters that require an additional explanation of how it may assist in a particular care plan or treatment protocol; therefore, to further discuss the subject matter above, please feel free to ask Dr. Alex Jimenez or contact us at 915-850-0900.

Dr. Alex Jimenez DC, MSACP, CCST, IFMCP*, CIFM*, ATN*

email: coach@elpasofunctionalmedicine.com

phone: 915-850-0900

Licensed in Texas & New Mexico *

Dr. Alex Jimenez DC, MSACP, CIFM, IFMCP, ATN, CCST
My Digital Business Card

Post Disclaimer

Professional Scope of Practice *

The information herein on "Optimizing Your Wellness | El Paso, Tx (2023)" is not intended to replace a one-on-one relationship with a qualified health care professional or licensed physician and is not medical advice. We encourage you to make healthcare decisions based on your research and partnership with a qualified healthcare professional.

Blog Information & Scope Discussions

Our information scope is limited to Chiropractic, musculoskeletal, acupuncture, physical medicines, wellness, contributing etiological viscerosomatic disturbances within clinical presentations, associated somatovisceral reflex clinical dynamics, subluxation complexes, sensitive health issues, and/or functional medicine articles, topics, and discussions.

We provide and present clinical collaboration with specialists from various disciplines. Each specialist is governed by their professional scope of practice and their jurisdiction of licensure. We use functional health & wellness protocols to treat and support care for the injuries or disorders of the musculoskeletal system.

Our videos, posts, topics, subjects, and insights cover clinical matters, issues, and topics that relate to and directly or indirectly support our clinical scope of practice.*

Our office has reasonably attempted to provide supportive citations and has identified the relevant research studies supporting our posts. We provide copies of supporting research studies available to regulatory boards and the public upon request.

We understand that we cover matters that require an additional explanation of how it may assist in a particular care plan or treatment protocol; therefore, to further discuss the subject matter above, please feel free to ask Dr. Alex Jimenez, DC, or contact us at 915-850-0900.

We are here to help you and your family.

Blessings

Dr. Alex Jimenez DC, MSACP, RN*, CCST, IFMCP*, CIFM*, ATN*

email: coach@elpasofunctionalmedicine.com

Licensed as a Doctor of Chiropractic (DC) in Texas & New Mexico*
Texas DC License # TX5807, New Mexico DC License # NM-DC2182

Licensed as a Registered Nurse (RN*) in Florida
Florida License RN License # RN9617241 (Control No. 3558029)
Compact Status: Multi-State License: Authorized to Practice in 40 States*

Presently Matriculated: ICHS: MSN* FNP (Family Nurse Practitioner Program)

Dr. Alex Jimenez DC, MSACP, RN* CIFM*, IFMCP*, ATN*, CCST
My Digital Business Card