🍼 Colostrum – The First Breast Milk

✅ Answer: (a) Colostrum

📖 What is Colostrum?

Colostrum is the first breast milk produced by the mother during the first 2–4 days after childbirth.

👉 It is thick, sticky, yellowish in color and is often called the baby’s “first vaccine” because it is rich in protective antibodies.

🩺 Why is Colostrum Important?

Colostrum contains:

• ✔ High levels of Immunoglobulin A (IgA)
• ✔ White blood cells (leukocytes)
• ✔ Proteins and vitamins
• ✔ Growth factors that help mature the infant’s intestine
• ✔ Low fat but highly nutritious

👉 It protects the newborn against infections and helps pass the first stool (meconium), reducing the risk of neonatal jaundice.

❌ Why Other Options Are Wrong?

(b) Fore Milk
❌ Fore milk is the milk released at the beginning of each feeding. It is thinner, bluish, and rich in water and lactose to quench the baby’s thirst.

(c) Hind Milk
❌ Hind milk is released toward the end of feeding. It is richer in fat and provides most of the calories needed for growth.

(d) Mature Milk
❌ Mature milk is produced after about 2 weeks postpartum and replaces transitional milk. It is not the initial thick yellow milk.

📝 Types of Breast Milk

📌 Exam Tip: Colostrum is called the “first immunization” or “first vaccine” because it is rich in IgA antibodies that protect the newborn from infections. Never discard colostrum—it is extremely beneficial for the baby.