Breast milk is a baby’s major source of nourishment. During pregnancy, a woman’s body begins to prepare for the creation of a new food source for her baby. Lactocytes, or milk-producing cells, begin to develop in the fourth week of pregnancy. During pregnancy, you may see your breasts increasing, but the amount of milk you make is determined by the milk producing tissues. The cycle of milk production does not begin until your baby is born. Dr. Chetna Jian best gynae doctor in gurgaon and ladies specialist doctor in Gurgaon provide pregnancy and infertility treatment like IVF and IUI treatment. She is the experienced gynecologist who received many honours for her excellence and treatment.
Mother’s milk contains all of the necessary elements, such as proteins, minerals, and lipids, as well as water to keep the infant hydrated. Breast milk is more than just a sustenance; it is the living “liquid gold.”
What exactly is in breast milk?
Breast milk is the most nutritious nourishment for your infant. It includes a lot of nutrients that will help your baby thrive. Antibodies are also found in breast milk (cells that fight infection). Antibodies protect your infant against illnesses such as diarrhoea, lung infections, and ear infections.
As your baby develops, the contents of your breast milk vary to fit his demands. Colostrum has a high protein content, certain minerals, and a low sugar content. Antibodies are also found in colostrum. Mature milk has less protein and more sugar, vitamins, minerals, and fat than young milk. At the conclusion of the nursing session, your baby receives the most nutrition. Breastfeed your infant until your milk supply ceases to ensure that your kid receives the maximum amount of nutrients.
Phase 1: Colostrum
Colostrum, often known as “liquid gold,” is the precursor to your milk production and is only generated for 2-5 days after birth. Colostrum is a nutrient-dense superfood for newborns that includes white blood cells and immune-boosting assistance. Colostrum is heavy in protein but low in sugar and fat, making it simpler to digest for your infant. Colostrum is so advantageous to your infant that you should make it a point to provide it to them even if you don’t intend to nurse.
Some women may make colostrum throughout their pregnancy, but don’t be concerned if you don’t. When the placenta is removed from the uterus, hormonal changes indicate to the breasts that it is time to begin producing milk. Colostrum differs substantially from breast milk. It is rich and creamy, with a gold/yellowish hue (but it can be clear). You could find that you make significantly less colostrum than you do transitional or mature milk.
A feeding of 1-1.5 tablespoons of colostrum will be plenty for your infant. While this may seem to be a modest quantity, keep in mind that your newborn’s stomach is relatively small and does not begin to expand until approximately day three. Your baby will be able to consume more each meal at this point, and happily, this is when your transitional milk will come in.
Phase 2: Transitional Milk
Typically, between days 3-6 postpartum, you will start producing “transitional” milk, which serves as a bridge between colostrum and mature milk. During the first several weeks of your newborn’s life, they are quickly developing, and your breast milk changes to match their changing demands. Your breasts are learning how much to produce according to how much your infant is consuming throughout the transitional milk period.
At this point, the composition of your milk is also altering. Transitional milk has more fat and lactose (sugar) than colostrum, which helps give your infant energy. Your transitional milk’s protein level will also alter. Casein and whey are now significant components of digestion and satiety. Whey proteins are high in antibodies and stay liquid in the stomach of your baby. As a result, they are readily and fast digested. Casein protein, on the other hand, curdles when it comes into contact with the acid in your baby’s stomach, allowing them to feel fuller for longer. This is why you may detect chunks in your baby’s spit-up.
During this transitional period, your breast milk undergoes the largest modifications as your body learns how to meet the changing demands of your developing infant. Your milk production will shift into mature milk by the end of your first month postpartum.
Mature Milk (Phase 3)
Your “mature” stage of breast milk transition is normally achieved by four weeks postpartum. At this stage, your milk has practically completed all of the adjustments and adaptations required to satisfy the demands of your developing kid. Your mature milk is very good in protecting your child from germs. Perfect time, too, since we’re sure you’ve seen your child putting more things in their mouth! Interestingly, since your mature milk is so tailored to your own kid, scientists are still trying to figure out precisely what cells, antibodies, and other components make up breast milk and how it functions to protect newborns.
During feedings, mature milk is supplied to your infant in two stages: foremilk and hindmilk. The milk that comes out at the start of your feed is known as foremilk. It is often thinner, sweeter, and lower in fat.
Hindmilk is the milk that gradually enters your baby’s system while he or she continues to eat. It contains more nutrients and has a greater fat content.
How can I take care of myself during breastfeeding?
Maintain a healthy diet. Consume nutritious foods to help your body produce adequate breast milk. In addition, you should consume at least eight 8-ounce glasses of fluids every day. Vitamins, such as vitamin D, may be prescribed by your doctor. Before taking any vitamins or supplements, consult with your caregiver. When you’re nursing, don’t try to lose weight by dieting. Discuss the things you should consume and how much you should eat with your caregiver. You and your partner may design the perfect diet for you.
Control your tension. Stress might reduce the amount of breast milk you produce. Relaxation may help you feel better by reducing stress. Deep breathing, meditation, and music listening may also help you manage stress. Discuss with your doctor various strategies to cope with stress.
Before taking any medications, consult with your caregiver. All prescription and nonprescription (over-the-counter) medications are included. Some medications may reduce the quantity of breast milk you produce. Other medications may get into your breast milk and damage your child.
Your mature breast milk not only satisfies your baby’s appetite, but it also helps them establish gut flora, strengthen their immune system, and fuel their quickly expanding brain. Furthermore, mature breast milk includes stem cells and hormones that aid laying the foundation for your baby’s health for the rest of their life!!
