Devon scientists find breastfeeding may leave lasting DNA imprint
A study led by the University of Exeter has found that exclusive breastfeeding may leave detectable epigenetic imprints on a child's DNA that persist for years. Researchers suggest these biological changes may contribute to long-term health benefits like improved immunity.
Why it matters
Understanding the long-term biological impacts of early childhood nutrition can inform public health policies and parental choices.
Image source, Family handout Image caption, Rebecca Bates, pictured with her baby Levi, is encouraged by the results of the study
South West health correspondent Published 25 August 2026, 06:10 BST Breastfeeding may leave a lasting biological imprint on babies, scientists say, in findings welcomed by mothers.
Researchers from the University of Exeter, in Devon, identified traces in the blood of children who were exclusively breastfed that remained detectable years later in a global study involving thousands of children.
The traces are linked to epigenetic changes, which affect how genes behave without altering the genes themselves.
It is further evidence that breastfeeding helps healthy development, but the study also highlights nursing is just one factor that boosts childhood outcomes.
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