The Jobs of Breast Milk (IMAGE) Cell Press Caption This image represents how breast milk provides more than just nutrients and vitamins to the suckling baby. Recent research demonstrated the functional complexity of breast milk components, including immunoglobulins, cytokines, antimicrobial proteins, hormones, and oligosaccharides. All of these molecules act in concert to fortify immunity, shape the gut microbiota, stimulate body growth, and even regulate birth spacing in mothers. Credit Thierry Hennet Usage Restrictions Credit Required. License Licensed content Disclaimer: AAAS and EurekAlert! are not responsible for the accuracy of news releases posted to EurekAlert! by contributing institutions or for the use of any information through the EurekAlert system.