colostrum
Release time : 03/03/2025 10:33:32
Colostrum refers to the milk that a new mother has within 4-5 days after giving birth to a baby. It is the baby's first bite of food after coming to the world and a precious gift from a mother to the baby.
Although colostrum may seem small and thin, as if it is very unnutritious, colostrum is actually rich in nutrients, which can enhance the baby's immunity and reduce the chance of getting sick within six months after birth.
Next, let's learn about the characteristics, benefits, color and other issues of colostrum.
What is colostrum? Many rookie mothers may not know much about colostrum.
Officially speaking, colostrum is the breast milk produced by a pregnant woman starting from the seventh month of pregnancy and given to her newborn within 5 days after birth.
To put it simply, colostrum is the first food that the baby eats upon being born into this world.
The production of colostrum is due to changes in the hormonal levels in postpartum mothers, leading to the initiation of milk secretion by the breast.
However, it is important to understand that there is a gradual change in quality and quantity of milk secretion. Generally, the breast milk produced by mothers within 4-5 days after birth is referred to as colostrum, while the milk produced by mothers between 6-10 days postpartum is considered transitional milk. The milk produced by mothers from 11 days onwards until the age of 9 months is termed mature milk, and milk beyond the 10th month is referred to as mature.
The content of phosphorus and calcium salts in colostrum is higher than that in transitional milk, mature milk and late milk, so it has the most abundant nutrition. However, it can also cause diarrhea.
Additionally, the calories in colostrum are relatively higher than those in milk produced later on, which is very beneficial for babies.
Inquiry into the color of colostrum has led to a significant interest in this topic among expectant fathers and mothers. When asked what aspect of colostrum they are most curious about, a substantial majority expresses their curiosity regarding its color.
Usually, the milk we commonly use is milky white, but colostrum, which is the milk secreted by Bao Ma within 4-5 days after the baby's birth, is yellow-white. Some of the colostrum secreted by Bao Ma may also be light yellow. The concentration is relatively high. This is because colostrum is rich in beta carotene, so it appears light yellow.
Colostrum appears more viscous than mature milk.
This thick yellow or yellow-white (sometimes transparent) colostrum is called "liquid gold" by nutrition experts because it is rich in antibodies and white blood cells, which can help your baby fight against various viruses and bacteria.
Studies have even pointed out that colostrum can also stimulate a baby's immune system to make antibodies.
Colostrum can also form a protective film in your baby's intestines, preventing harmful bacteria from invading the fragile digestive system and fighting allergies and other problems.
When will colostrum be available? Colostrum generally refers to the milk secreted by Bao Ma within 4-5 days after the baby is born. That is to say, colostrum is generally available 4-5 days after childbirth.
However, upon careful analysis based on specific circumstances, it has been observed that many mothers actually produce colostrum during pregnancy.
After researching, the Baby Mamas Dictionary has compiled some shared experiences from experienced mothers on the question of when colostrum first appears. Here are their insights: 1. Colostrum typically begins to appear within the first three days after birth, but the exact timing varies from individual to individual. Some babies may have colostrum immediately upon birth, while others may require a longer period of time. 2. The color of colostrum usually ranges from light yellow or white, and it is thicker in consistency, containing abundant antibodies and nutrients that are very beneficial for the immune system development of the baby. 3. The secretion volume of colostrum varies among individuals. Some moms may secrete only small amounts of colostrum daily, while others might produce a significant amount. 4. The taste of colostrum can vary depending on personal constitution and feeding methods. Some moms may find the taste sweet, while others may perceive it as more subtly flavorless. 5. The secretion volume of colostrum gradually decreases around one month after birth, with most moms stopping its secretion by then. 6. The secretion volume of colostrum can also be influenced by factors such as mom's diet, sleep, emotions, etc. If mom maintains good living habits and mental state, her secretion volume of colostrum is generally relatively high. 7. The secretion volume of colostrum can also be affected by mom's physical condition, age, and medical history, among other factors. If mom has diseases like mastitis or breast cancer, or if she has ever given birth, her secretion volume of colostrum may be lower. 8. The secretion volume of colostrum can also be influenced by baby's needs and feeding methods, as if the baby frequently suckles the nipple, then the secretion volume of mom's colostrum will generally be higher. In summary, the secretion volume of colostrum can be affected by various factors, and each mom's situation is unique. However, regardless of the amount of colostrum secretion, it is an important guarantee for the healthy growth of the baby.
Babies' mother, "Jingjia Bambino", stated that the onset of breast milk varies from person to person.
Some people start to secrete milk when their stomachs bulge, but some people don't have it until one to two days, or three to five days after the baby is born.
Moreover, some people need the help of breast pumps! However, precious moms don't have to be too anxious. If you have milk during pregnancy, you will definitely have sufficient milk secretion after childbirth.
But if you don't, don't worry, because most mothers have milk, which is what the difference.
Bao Ma's "Spring and Summer of Autumn" said that when colostrum comes in varies from person to person. Some are early and some are late. Like me, clear water flowed out in four months, making my clothes and quilt dirty. It's troublesome to run it early, so it's better to run it later.
No matter sooner or later, yellow milk will come out 2-3 days after giving birth. It is like a potion that cannot be washed off your clothes, but it is a good thing, so don't squeeze it out and let your child eat it. I heard that helping a child for half a year has a lot of resistance.
Many people thought they were dirty and squeezed out. What a pity! Characteristics of colostrum. Although colostrum is small, it is extremely important to newborns. Some nutrition experts even call colostrum "liquid gold", which shows its preciousness and importance.
So, what are the characteristics of colostrum? The main characteristics of colostrum are that it has the following eight major nutrients that are worthy of praise: 1. Protein.
Compared with normal milk, the protein content in colostrum is very high, especially the protein content in whey is extremely high.
The colostrum contains more than five times the protein of normal milk, especially rich in immunoglobulins, lactoferrin, growth factors, macrophages, neutrophils and lymphocytes.
These substances have the function of preventing infection and enhancing immunity.
2. Vitamin.
The vitamin content in colostrum is also significantly higher than that in normal milk.
The content of vitamin B2 in colostrum is sometimes 3-4 times higher than that in normal milk, and the content of niacin in colostrum is also higher than that in normal milk.
What is lactose?
Colostrum has low lactose content and high ash content, especially high sodium and chlorine content.
The content of trace elements copper, iron, zinc and other minerals is significantly higher than that of regular milk, and the taste is slightly salty.
The iron content in colostrum is about 3-5 times that of normal milk, and the copper content is about 6 times that of normal milk.
4. Immune cells.
Various cells in colostrum have certain immune functions.
For example, neutrophils can swallow and digest bacteria, while mononuclear macrophages can swallow and kill a variety of pathogenic microorganisms, eliminate aging, damaged or dead cells in the body, and kill tumor cells.
The lymphocytes contained in colostrum are the most important immune cells in the human body.
5. Immunoglobulin.
Colostrum contains a large number of immunoglobulin that resists various diseases. They enhance the immunity of newborns and prevent neonatal infections.
6. Fat.
The amount of fat contained in colostrum is not as high as that of mature milk, which is in line with the poor ability to digest and absorb fat in the gastrointestinal tract of newborn children.
7. Zinc.
The zinc content in colostrum is also very high. It has been determined that colostrum contains a large amount of zinc within 12 days after childbirth, with an average concentration of 4-7 times that of serum zinc. After that, the zinc content in breast milk will decrease rapidly.
8. Growth factors.
Colostrum contains a large number of growth factors, especially epithelial growth factors, which can promote the growth of epithelial cells in the gastrointestinal tract of newborns, promote the rapid development of epithelial cells in the liver and other tissues, and also participate in regulating the acidity and alkalinity of gastric juice.
The benefits of colostrum for babies There is no doubt that colostrum has great benefits for babies, but many people say that they only know what it is and don't know why.
Even some precious moms and fathers are influenced by traditional concepts and believe that the milk initially secreted after childbirth is a "dirty thing". Simply squeeze it out and discard it. This is simply a waste.
You know, colostrum is as expensive as oil. It contains more carotene, protein and tangible substances. It is thicker and has a yellow color.
Compared with mature milk (milk after a full moon), colostrum has lower fat and sugar content and is suitable for digestion and absorption by newborns within 10 days after birth.
In addition, the nutritional value of colostrum is currently considered to be the highest among dairy products.
Compared with mature milk, colostrum is rich in antibodies, abundant proteins, lower fats and various enzymes and carbohydrates that babies need.
Specifically, the benefits of colostrum for babies are as follows: 1. Enhances infant immunity. The colostrum contains abundant immunoglobulins, lactoferrin, lysozyme, and other immune active substances, along with macrophages, neutrophils, and lymphocytes, which can protect the delicate mucosal surfaces of the newborn's digestive and respiratory tracts from microbial invasion, thereby alleviating the severity of infant infections.
In other words, it can enhance the ability to resist infections and play a role in preventing infections and enhancing immunological functions.
2. Promote the development of the baby's intestines. Growth factors in colostrum can promote the development of immature intestines in babies, prepare them for mature milk, and help prevent allergic reactions and intolerance to certain foods, thereby reducing allergies.
3. Beneficial for baby's bowel movements. Compared to mature milk, colostrum not only contains low levels of fat and lactose suitable for the baby's digestion and absorption but also has a slight laxative effect, facilitating the expulsion of fecal matter in utero, reducing bilirubin content, and alleviating neonatal jaundice.
4. Promote the development of the nervous system, the trace element copper, iron and zinc in colostrum is higher, can promote the growth and development of babies, especially the development of the nervous system.
The medical information provided in this text is for reference only.
If discomfort is experienced, it is advised to seek medical attention immediately. The diagnosis and treatment should be based on the medical examination conducted in person.