Breastmilk and Baby – the Dynamic Duo

1. Right after birth, the yellowy sticky colostrum is rich in immunological factors and is secreted in little quantity. This is what your just born wants.
2. After 4 to 5 days the milk gets creamier and the quantity increases. You might feel a fullness in your breast from now on. This milk is called transitional milk and resembles colostrum in few aspects but is a little different.
3. This difference gradually increases and by four weeks, this milk becomes mature milk. After this stage, milk composition does not undergo any drastic changes although there might be subtle changes. The milk can still adapt to the needs of your baby, for instance if your baby is ill, the antibody content becomes more, also when your baby little explorer starts experimenting by putting objects in mouth, the protective enzymes are in adequate flow.
4. Breastmilk has all the essential macro and micronutrients and bio active components to provide a wholesome nutrition. This nutrition originates through three sources. One by synthesis in the lactocyte  cells in your mammary glands, the next by your dietary intake , and some other originate from your internal store of nutrients.
5. The macronutrient component like proteins, fats, carbs vary between pre-term to term infants. The protein and fat content of your milk will be higher if you have had a preterm baby. This is needed to support the growth and development of your preemie.
6. Should you do anything about the protein? Protein increases with your body weight for height and decreases once you start producing higher quantities of milk. Similarly, if you are producing higher quantities of milk, the lactose levels will be high. All this is designed to give the best possible nutrition to your baby based on the demand and need.
7. You must have noticed that the milk at the start of the feed is watery and towards the end is creamier. Well there is a difference within the feed itself. The initial milk that is secreted is called foremilk and is watery to first satiate your baby’s thirst and the milk that comes through the later part of feeding is called hindmilk and is rich in lipids. It is a good idea to empty your breast before going on to the next breast so that your little one receives the complete package of nutrients in a balance. Your diet may impact the amount of your milk fat. Also, this fat content of the milk varies according to the time of feed, the fat is maximum during afternoons and evenings and lesser during mornings and nights. Milk during late evenings and night contains more components that relax and aid babies sleep, while daytime milk stimulates activity. See how intelligent our system is!
8. Micronutrients like vitamins depend on your diet. So, ensure proper nutrition for you as well. Regardless of your diet, your baby will need vitamin K, Vitamin D supplements if you breastfeed exclusively. Your doctor will guide you on this.

This is the story of your breastmilk composition.  Bottomline is that your baby’s needs will be met with the dynamic nature of breastmilk. This sets breast milk apart from formula or other feeds which cannot bring in this personalized content of milk.  So, nurture your young one with the best start to life with your breastfeeding.

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