Question

Explain the nutrient composition of breastmilk and how it changes from the initial milk (colostrum) over time.

What are some of the unique benefits of breastfeeding for the infant and for the mother?

Answer 1

Ans) Breast milk is the milk produced by the breasts (or mammary glands) of a human female to feed a child. Milk is the primary source of nutrition for newborns before they are able to eat and digest other foods; older infants and toddlers may continue to be breastfed, in combination with other foods from six months of age when solid foods should be introduced.

- Human milk contains 0.8% to 0.9% protein, 4.5% fat, 7.1% carbohydrates, and 0.2% ash (minerals). Carbohydrates are mainly lactose; several lactose-based oligosaccharides have been identified as minor components.

- Colostrum will gradually change to become mature milk. In the first 3–4 days it will appear thin and watery and will taste very sweet; later, the milk will be thicker and creamier. ... Instead, as a baby breastfeeds, the fat content very gradually increases, with the milk becoming fattier and fattier over time.

• Benefits:

- Breast milk enhances GI maturity , Immune factors, and decreases risk of GI diseases.

- Breastfeed infants receive immunologic factors, antibodies protect against virus and bacteria illnesses.

- Lower incidense of allergies and 42% less for atopic dermatitis.
- lower risk for SIDS
- preotect against childhood lymphoma and diabetes mellitus.
- Enhance growth and development
- Analgesic affect calming for baby
- Decreaseovarian, uterian, breast cancer and rhuematoid arthritis.

- less hemorrhaging and promotes uterine involution.
- Return to prepregnancy weight faster.
- Protects against osteoporosis, hip fractures
- Bonding , decreases depression, easy, nothing to purchase, free, clean or dispose, portable, good for career, save money, WIC ,Supplemental nutrition program.