Breastfeeding Benefits: 6 Months of Exclusive Nursing Tied to Lower Kidney Disease Risk in Kids

A study has found that exclusive breastfeeding is associated with a reduced incidence of pediatric nephrotic syndrome.

Park Pyeong Gang from the Department of Pediatrics at Ajou University Hospital announced the results of a study that analyzed data from the National Health Insurance Corporation. The research examined the findings from secondary health checkups conducted on 1.7 million children born between 2010 and 2018, focusing on those who underwent these checkups between the ages of 4 and 6 months.

The follow-up study, conducted over eight years, revealed that children who were exclusively breastfed for the first six months had an incidence of nephrotic syndrome that was approximately 20% lower compared to their formula-fed peers.

Pediatric nephrotic syndrome is a type of kidney disease that occurs in children. It is characterized by protein leakage into the urine. This condition can lead to low levels of albumin in the blood (hypoalbuminemia), high levels of fats in the blood (hyperlipidemia), and generalized swelling (edema) throughout the body. Little has been known about effective preventive measures for this condition.

The research team explains that nephrotic syndrome arises from abnormalities in immune function regulation. This syndrome can initially develop in childhood, often triggered by viral infections. Exclusive breastfeeding enhances immune regulation and prevents infectious diseases, potentially contributing to a reduced incidence of this condition.

Park stated, “I hope this research helps raise awareness of the benefits of breastfeeding,” adding, “While pediatric nephrotic syndrome can resolve as children grow and normal kidney function can be maintained, it may progress to chronic kidney disease, which necessitates ongoing attention.”

Meanwhile, the World Health Organization (WHO) and several reputable institutions recommend exclusive breastfeeding for the first six months of life. Exclusive breastfeeding means feeding infants only breast milk, without any formula or supplementary foods. This method is known to strengthen a child’s immune system and reduce the incidence of both infectious and non-infectious diseases.