Colostrum: What It Is & Why It's So Important For Newborns

As Hippocrates once said, "Let food be medicine and medicine be thy food." Colostrum, the first food a mother provides, perfectly embodies this wisdom. Rich in nutrients and natural antibodies, it serves as the foundation of a newborn’s first nutrition. ^{1, 2 3} But what makes colostrum so crucial for your baby’s health? 

Join us as we explore the unique properties of colostrum and its essential role in supporting a newborn's immune system from day one.

What Is Colostrum?

Colostrum is a nutrient-rich initial breast milk produced by the mammary glands post-childbirth. It is a thick, creamy liquid that can be light yellow, gold, or clear. However, many women may not notice it unless they see some leakage from their nipples during pregnancy. This leakage shows the body is getting ready for breastfeeding. ¹, ²

What Is Colostrum Made Of?

Colostrum contains antibodies, proteins, and important nutrients like vitamin A, magnesium, copper, and zinc. These work together to boost immunity, fight infections, and support your baby’s overall growth and well-being from day 1. ¹

Colostrum Vs Breast Milk: The Key Differences

While both colostrum and breast milk are important for your baby's growth and health development, they serve different purposes. ^{1 2 4}

How Breast Milk Evolves: From Colostrum to Mature Milk

Breastfeeding is a journey of change; it starts with colostrum, which gradually converts to mature milk. Each stage is vital in nourishing your baby—let’s explore how it evolves!

• Colostrum: Shortly after birth, your breasts begin producing colostrum, a thick yellowish fluid rich in antibodies, proteins, vitamins, and minerals. This process continues for the first 2 to 4 days. ¹
• Transitional Milk: After 2-4 days, your breasts may feel full and warm as they begin transitioning from colostrum to mature milk. This shift, marked by a change in colour to bluish-white, is a natural part of your breastfeeding journey. ¹
• Mature Milk: Your body may start producing mature milk after two weeks of childbirth. This milk is thicker, creamier, and rich in nutrients necessary for your baby’s healthy growth. ¹

What Makes Colostrum Turn Into Breast Milk?

After delivery, the drop in pregnancy hormones like progesterone and estrogen triggers prolactin, which helps produce more milk. Also as your baby’s needs increase, colostrum naturally turns into nutrient-rich mature milk, providing essential nutrition for your baby’s healthy growth and development.  ^{5 6 7} 

Why Is Colostrum Important For Newborns?

Colostrum is often referred to as "baby’s first vaccine," which offers countless benefits for your newborn in the first few days of life. Here are some of the colostrum milk for your baby’s health:

• Boost Immunity: Colostrum is a powerful mix of antibodies, including immunoglobulin A (IgA), which helps to power up your baby's immune system. It also protects your baby against infections in the early days of life. ²
• Supports Gut Health: Colostrum contains beneficial proteins along with other nutrients like vitamins, zinc and magnesium. These help support your baby's gut health by encouraging the growth of good bacteria for better digestion. ²
• Helps Prevent Allergies: It contains immune-boosting components, such as lactoferrin and lysozyme. These will help strengthen your baby's immune system and might also reduce the chances of allergies as they grow. ⁸
• Prepares For Breastfeeding: Colostrum is gentle and easy to digest, making it perfect for your baby’s tiny stomach as they get used to breastfeeding. Its higher protein content gives them the nutrition they need during those first few days. ¹

How Long Does Colostrum Last?

Colostrum starts producing in the first five days after delivery. It begins to change into transitional milk by day five and finally becomes mature milk two weeks later. However, some traces of colostrum can be traced in breast milk up to six weeks after delivery. ¹

Conclusion

The health benefits of colostrum for your newborn are undeniable. It's the first step in giving your baby a strong start, providing essential nutrients and immunity during those early days.

As colostrum transitions to mature breast milk, it continues to offer vital nourishment. Breastmilk provides DHA, an omega-3 fatty acid that supports healthy brain development. ⁹

If you're a lactating mom or about to become one, it's important to know the DHA levels in your breast milk. That's where LifeCell OmegaScore-N comes in. This simple, non-invasive test measures your breast milk's DHA levels from the comfort of your home. Just add a few drops of breast milk to the collection card, schedule a sample pickup, and our executive will collect the kit and deliver it to the lab for testing. You'll receive a digital report with detailed information about your breast milk’s DHA level. Once you have your results, consult  your doctor or dietitian to discuss ways to optimise your DHA intake.

FAQs

Q1. Does Leaking Colostrum Mean Labour Is Near?

Leaking colostrum during pregnancy is not a sign that labour will start. It is a common occurrence during the second trimester as the body prepares for breastfeeding. ¹

Q2. Can You Express Colostrum While Pregnant?

Yes, expressing colostrum during pregnancy is possible and is referred to as antenatal colostrum harvesting. This practice can be beneficial in preparing your body for breastfeeding and may provide advantages for you and your baby. However, always check with your doctor to ensure its safety during pregnancy. ¹

Q3. How Do I Know I Am Producing Colostrum?

You may probably notice some slight leakage of thick, creamy fluid from your breasts, especially around the second or third trimester. It is usually colostrum and shows that your body is preparing for breastfeeding. ¹

Q4.  How Do You Store Pumped Colostrum?

Pumped colostrum can be stored in sterile containers in the refrigerator for up to 48 hours. Be sure to label each container, place it in a clean zip-lock bag, and store it in the freezer at -18°C. ¹⁰