Breast milk is a highly complex mixture of nutrients dissolved in water. It is very dynamic and changes with time of day and during the course of lactation to meet the needs of your growing baby.
There are several components in breast milk that are very beneficial to babies’ development.
- Immunoglobulins:These are components that help in building immunity for your little one to ensure healthy growth. The highest concentration is found in colostrum, this is the pre-milk that is only available from the breast the first three to five days of the baby’s life. More immunoglobulin that protects the ears, nose, throat, and the gut is found in the breast milk throughout the first year. One of the most unique aspects of breast milk is that it may get certain immunity properties when you are exposed to particular viruses and bacteria to offer protection for your baby.
- Lactoferrin: This is an iron-binding protein that helps in establishing healthy gut and protect against bacteria that may lead to infections such as diarrhea and vomiting
- Lysozyme: This is an enzyme that helps in digestion and helps develop the digestive tract
- Growth Factors:Contains growth hormones that help your baby develop
- Carnitine: These help to the body make use of fatty acids as an energy source.
- DHA & ARA:The main long-chain fatty acids found in human milk help in the development of the brain.
- Antivirus – Protection against viruses e.g colds and flus
- Anti- Allergies – Protects your baby from developing allergies
- Anti parasites – protect the gut from parasites
- Minerals and vitamins – All essential minerals needed for proper growth and development
- Fat – Helps your baby gain weight adequately
- Carbohydrates – Helps baby get enough energy
- Protein – Building blocks for the body’s development
- Water – Breast milk is 88% water. Every time that you breastfeeds, you give your baby water through the breastmilk. It has everything a baby needs to quench thirst and satisfy hunger
