Shattering Misconceptions — Unravelling The Truth Behind Colostrum

Ever heard of the term ‘colostrum’? It sure does have a negative connotation what with all the baseless myths hovering over it. If you are one of those mothers who were ‘advised’ not to feed your baby ‘colostrum’, this is for you.

It is natural for young mothers to feel apprehensive about a lot of things surrounding pregnancy, motherhood and breastfeeding. When it comes to breastfeeding, mothers are racked with questions regarding the correct method, position and duration of breastfeeding. Some mothers may or may not have heard about ‘colostrum’. Now, colostrum is mainly infamous for the many myths associated with it- “Colostrum should be squeezed out.” “It is bad for the baby!” Let me stop you right there; colostrum is perhaps the most beneficial aspect of breastfeeding.

A Sweet Beginning

Let’s get to the basics. When your breasts produce colostrum to feed your baby, it marks the beginning of motherhood. Colostrum is thick and yellow and a treasure chest of nutrients. It is a fine blend of all the nutrients and antibodies the baby requires: vitamins, carbohydrates and proteins. The colostrum is suited to fulfill the baby’s needs as it is easily digestible because it is mildly laxative and low on fat.

The superpowers of colostrum

Colostrum is hailed for its super immunity powers. It is rich in white blood cells which stands as a sentinel against infections and produce antibodies. These antibodies are important to control diarrhoea and tummy upsets of your young one.

The life-saving antibody in colostrum is sIgA. This antibody lines up on the gastrointestinal tract of your baby and fights all infections that may come its way. It also stimulates the growth of protective mucus membranes in your baby’s intestines.

As colostrum is an easy laxative, frequent pooping reduces the risk of jaundice in your newborn. It also flushes out any unwanted or harmful substances from your baby’s body.

Colostrum is a storehouse of Vitamin A which aids in the vision of those googly eyes and makes your baby’s skin super smooth and supple. Magnesium offers support to the baby’s heart and bones, while zinc develops the immune system and promotes the development of the brain.

What happens after colostrum?

Colostrum paves the way to mature milk or the normal white milk after 2 to 4 days of breastfeeding. Your breasts will feel firmer and fuller and the milk will be creamier. Until you stop breastfeeding your baby, mature milk will take the place of colostrum.

In conclusion, it can be rightfully said that colostrum is highly beneficial for any newborn. Research shows that newborn babies who were fed colostrum showed “significantly better health outcomes” than babies who were not fed colostrum. So, are you ready to bust all the myths associated with colostrum? Follow facts and turn a blind eye to baseless ‘advice’ for the benefit of your baby.

Happy motherhood!