Key Points
Breast milk contains several interesting immune modulating components with specific modulating potentials, which are known to have a clear role in immune mediated disease resistance later in life. The development and deterioration of our immune defenses show differences as well as similarities in immunological challenges throughout life. Each phase in life puts specific requirements on nutrition, although no clear statement can be made based on literature as to what the exact dietary requirements are in order to fully support the immune system during life.