Question

“Colostrum is very much essential for the newborn infants''. Justify.

Answer 1

The colostrum is referred to as the ‘first milk’ secreted after the birth of a newborn by the female. It is yellowish and thick fluid as compared to normal milk. It is rich in several antibodies and vitamins. It helps lick starting the digestion of the newborn.

Complete answer:
The colostrum is the richest and most nutritious milk that a newborn receives from the mother during the first few days of the lactation period. It is the first-ever milk released by the mammary glands of the mother just after the birth of the newborn. Its texture is slightly different from normal milk as it is much thick and has a yellowish tinge. This is due to the high protein and nutrient content in it.
Colostrum is rich in various antibodies and nutrients required by the infant to adapt to the new world. The colostrum is rich in antibody or immunoglobulin A which is essential in fighting off several foreign infections. The immunoglobulin A with other antibodies lines the respiratory and gut tract of the infant. This acts as a protective barrier to infections. Colostrums also help in establishing the healthy gut flora for the infant. As colostrum is rich in proteins and nutrients it helps the baby grow healthy in the initial days which establishes a stem for coming days. Colostrums help in easy digestion and gut functioning of the newborn. Thus, it is highly recommended to not waste the colostrums. Mammary milk is a rich source of nutrients for the baby when he or she cannot take outside food. It is a complete food for the baby.
The concentration of immunoglobulins changes as milk changes from colostrum to transitional milk and then to mature breast milk.

Note: Breast milk is essential for the growth and development of the newborn. The baby does not have a developed and functional immune system unless he or she is provided by these from breast milk. Antibiotics and other factors in breast milk not only helps in fighting infections but also protect the child from various allergies.