Researchers followed a birth group that compared infants from Old Order Mennonite farming families in New York's Finger Lakes region with urban and suburban families in Rochester. They followed mothers and babies from pregnancy through the first year and collected cord blood, infant blood, stool, saliva and human milk.
Farm-exposed infants had more experienced B cells and higher antibody levels (IgG and IgA) in blood, saliva and stool. Mothers from farm families had higher IgA in their milk. The team measured egg-specific IgG4 and IgA in infant blood and milk and found higher levels in the Mennonite group.
There was a clear gradient in milk antibody levels: highest in Mennonite breast milk, lowest in mothers of infants with egg allergy, and intermediate in mothers of non-allergic infants. The researchers say they cannot prove causality from this study.
Difficult words
- antibody — a protein the immune system makes to fight germs
- b cell — a white blood cell that makes those proteinsB cells
- cord blood — blood from a baby immediately after birth
- milk — liquid from a mother's breasts to feed babieshuman milk, breast milk
- allergy — when the body reacts badly to a foodegg allergy
- gradient — a change that goes from low to high
- causality — the idea that one thing causes another
Tip: hover, focus or tap highlighted words in the article to see quick definitions while you read or listen.
Related articles
Untreated Sleep Apnea Speeds Heart Aging and Raises Death Risk
A laboratory study using a long-term mouse model finds that untreated obstructive sleep apnea — recreated by repeated drops in oxygen during sleep — leads to faster cardiovascular aging and higher mortality. Researchers call for early screening and treatment.
Scientists find many new gut microbes in Africa
A large study of stool samples from around 1,800 women across four African countries found thousands of previously unknown gut microbes. The results may change how medicines and HIV care work for African populations.
Indian Rice Variety Shows Promise for People with Diabetes
Joha rice, grown in India, is believed to help prevent type 2 diabetes and has healthy fats. Scientists are studying its benefits for better health.
Keeping healthy habits during the holidays
The holiday season often disrupts regular health routines. Samantha Harden of Virginia Tech recommends realistic, small changes—like habit stacking, gamifying activities, involving others and travel tips—and a broader view of well‑being so breaks are not failure.
Cell transplant may help heart after spinal cord injury
Researchers tested transplanting immature nerve cells into spinal cord injuries in rats. The transplants improved nerve control of circulation — stabilizing resting blood pressure and lowering heart rate — but hormonal responses after injury still rose.
When Basic Needs Fail: How Local Shocks Become Wider Emergencies
From close experience in Turkey, the author shows how shortages in food, health and services turn into medical and social crises. Simple support like school meals, cash and cross‑city cooperation can reduce risks and costs.