Does my milk still contain any antibodies?

[Riceball]

I am feeding my 16 month old and feel that it is beneficial to her, both emotionally and physically.
I know colostrum contains antibodies and I just weondered if milk for an older baby still contained them?

Yes it does, any minor infections you get, the antibodies for them will be in your milk.

Yes, it always will.

Thanks. That's good to know as I'm currently suffering from a bad cold .
Can anyone link to any studies?

Kellymom has some references .

My understanding is that your milk always contains the antibodies but that the small holes in your baby's intestines, through which those antibodies reach their bloodstream, slowly close as they get older.

BM actually contains more antibodies in the second year than the first, as they are exposed to more as they run around independently so need them.

Your body also makes specific antibodies to fight bugs and lurgies it detects via the areola when feeding.

Such a clever system. The boobs are amazing

Wow superworm (we love that book too) that really is clever - do have a link for any other info like that?

I'm pretty sure I ready both in the politics of breastfeeding. Le Leche have some info on biofeedback and breastfeeding.

Kellymom has some info on the link above on antibodies and year two.Jack Newman also talks about the benefits too.

Thanks a lot - will take a look

"My understanding is that your milk always contains the antibodies but that the small holes in your baby's intestines, through which those antibodies reach their bloodstream, slowly close as they get older"

Your understanding is wrong , sorry,

Humans( all primates) are born with "closed" digestive systems, unlike other mammals which are born with the kind of digestive tract you describe. Antibodies cannot cross into the bloodstream from the digestive tract. Thus BM antibodies are only effective against infections within the digestive tract.

in primates!

All primates get the vast majority of their passive (i.e. from Mum) immunity prior to birth. Other mammals get it from colostrum.

Yes, it contains antibodies for as long as its produced. In fact it is thought that the concentration of antibodies is higher in mothers of older babies especially when those babies are having fewer feeds per day.