What does Breast Milk Contain?

Breast Milk is the perfect food for babies as it contains all the nutrients required for normal growth and development for the first six months of life. Although the production of breast milk begins after delivery, your body starts preparing for it during pregnancy. After delivery, hormones prolactin and oxytocin trigger the secretion of breast milk whenever the baby suckles. 


In the initial days, milk comes in the form of a thick yellowish fluid known as colostrum. Colostrum is low in fat, and high in carbohydrates, protein, and antibodies to help keep your baby healthy. It is extremely easy to digest, and is therefore the perfect first food for your baby. It is low in volume but high in concentrated nutrition for the newborn. 

Colostrum has a laxative effect on the baby, helping him pass his early stools, which aids in the excretion of excess bilirubin and helps prevent jaundice. Its quantity gradually increases from the third month of delivery.


A healthy mother produces about 500-800 ml of milk per day, which provides 500 kcal/day to the baby. Breast milk contains:

• A high concentration of lactose and galactose.
• Low content of proteins.
• Essential fatty acids.
• Vitamins and minerals.

All these nutrients are necessary for the physical and mental growth of the baby.

  

 Mother's Milk Is Best For Your Baby