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Expert Q&A

	By Ann Calandro BSN, RNC, IBCLC Lactation Consultant

What is colostrum?

Colostrum is a very special food – one of the most important foods he will ever eat. Colostrum is the early milk produced in mother's breasts, specially prepared for the first 2 to 5 days before the more mature milk begins to be produced. As babies transition into life outside the uterus, colostrum is the ideal food. In truth, it is more than a food; it is also baby's first immunization. It meets the needs of a newborn baby exactly. Each time the baby nurses, he will receive colostrum in teaspoons – the exact amount needed for his small stomach and immature kidneys.

Colostrum looks different from later milk: It is thicker and stickier. Sometimes it is golden, thus the nickname "liquid gold." It could be clear, or a different color, but it is always perfect. It's composition is different from more mature milk, just as nature intended. It is higher in protein, minerals, sodium, potassium, vitamins A and E, and carotenoids. Colostrum contains all 10 essential amino acids – the building blocks for the baby's body. It is lower in carbohydrates, fat and lactose. Colostrum is extremely high in secretory IgA, a major immunoglobulin and anti-infective agent. It is also full of protective white cells called leukocytes, which have the ability to destroy bacteria and viruses.

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