The Science of Breast Milk
18 September 2025 - 14 mins
Podcast Series
Show Me the Science with Luke O'Neill
Breast milk is often called “nature’s first vaccine” and, in this week's podcast, Luke O’Neill explains why. From the moment a baby is born, its immune system is still immature and wide open to infection. Breast milk steps in as the baby’s first line of defence, passing on antibodies, immune cells and even the benefits of vaccines the mother has received.
Luke explores how this “passive immunisation” works – from the placenta before birth to breast milk afterwards – and why it’s so powerful in protecting babies against infections, hospitalisations and even long-term risks like obesity and diabetes. He also looks at the benefits for mothers, including protection against breast and ovarian ca...
Series Episodes
