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Did you know even a small amount of massage each day helps to strengthen a baby's immune system? 

Research published by the Official Journal of the American Academy of Pediatrics shows the 'cell-killing' ability (cytotoxicity) of white blood cells (NK cells) increases when babies receive massage. 

Why would parents want to increase their baby's 'cell-killing' ability? 

Because this process plays a major role in the baby's capacity to fight viral infections and tumours. Increasing cytotoxicity is the equivalent of your baby having their own well-equipped 'armed forces' ready to fight against infection and viruses when needed.

When a baby has white blood cells with low cytotoxicity they are more susceptible to colds, flu and more serious illnesses. 

Though baby massage has been part of daily life in some cultures for centuries, research such as this is seeing massage become increasingly popular in Australia.

While parents can do a number of things to help strengthen their baby's immune system, it's good to know that providing a short massage each day does more than helping with wind & sleep.

Baby massage courses are being held all around Australia by Certified Infant Massage Instructors and Paediatric Massage Consultants to help parents who want to learn how to provide a safe and effective massage. To find your nearest baby massage class, contact the Infant Massage Information Service.