What is a potential health risk of not breastfeeding when contraindicated?

When evaluating the potential health risks associated with not breastfeeding, one of the key factors is the increased likelihood of allergic reactions. Breastfeeding provides many protective factors, including immunoglobulins and other bioactive compounds that help to modulate the infant's immune response. Infants who are not breastfed may be more susceptible to allergies due to the absence of these protective elements in their diet.

Breast milk contains unique proteins and fats that play a crucial role in developing the gut microbiome and the immune system. This strengthening of the infant's defenses against various allergens is a benefit that non-breastfed infants often miss, which can lead to a higher incidence of allergic conditions, such as eczema and food allergies, later in life.

This understanding of the health implications of not breastfeeding highlights the importance of breastfeeding when it is possible and safe to do so, as it contributes to healthier long-term outcomes in children, particularly related to allergies.