Setting up the immune system - Perinatal influences

The major factors influencing the development of the immune system in the perinatal period include: the parents' health; the health, diet, drug and alcohol use of the mother during pregnancy; the type of infant feeding at breast or bottle; the child's diet; and the use of antibiotics and vaccines. This paper presents a brief overview of the role of each of these influences, with some suggestions for maximizing immune system health.