Falak Hanif, Executive-Nutritionist, Cloudnine Group of Hospitals, Bangalore (Old Airport Road)
To all the new mothers out there – Hats off to you!! We know how eagerly you have been waiting to see the little one you carried for nine months and your baby’s finally right in front of your eyes. Your happiness knows no bounds. But now you are worried about your baby’s health and want to see them healthy and happy. Believe it or not, You have the power to bless them with that through colostrum which your body has prepared for your baby.
What is Colostrum?
Colostrum is a rich, sticky, yellow or slightly faint yellow substance that is produced by a mother’s breast as a precursor for breast milk. It is also commonly known as “Liquid Gold” .It is produced by the body during pregnancy but only released after delivery so that the baby can be fed immediately after birth. It’s amazing how a mother’s body carefully takes care of all that the baby requires.
According to World Health Organization (WHO),”Breastfed children perform better on intelligence tests, are less likely to be overweight or obese and less prone to diabetes later in life. Women who breastfeed also have a reduced risk of breast and ovarian cancers.
How does it benefit the baby?
- Best meal option
It is full of proteins, antioxidants and minerals required .It also helps the baby in getting used to the outer environment by regulating its body temperature, metabolism and vascular functions.
- Stronger Immunity:
It contains antibodies that protect the body against any foreign harmful substances and microorganisms, keeps the baby healthy and free from easily harming viruses.
- Saviour to Premature babies:
It promotes healthy growth in premature babies, hence helps in their development.
- Cleanses :
Colostrum is easily digestible. It helps the baby’s body get rid of meconium which would be the baby’s first poop.
- Builds an empire for the gut:
It helps in forming a protective layer in the gut that protects the body from future infections and diseases.
Colostrum comes in small amounts and you might feel like it’s not enough. But each drop counts and it is completely sufficient for the baby.
Your milk will soon change to transitional milk and the quantity will keep increasing according to the baby’s requirements.
Nutritional Guide for Lactating Mommies:
It is very important to eat healthy for a mother who is exclusively breastfeeding to stay healthy and provide her baby with the right nutrients.
- Eat small and frequent meals.
- Drink at least 3-4 litres of liquids in a day to keep yourself hydrated. Sources- water, fresh fruit juices, soups, dal water.
- Try consuming three major meals followed by two wholesome snacks between them.
- Have two servings of fruits daily; one vitamin C rich fruit is a must
- You can have masoor /black gram/moong dal, lean cuts of meat and fish.
- Include whole grain flours in your preparations.
- Include moderate portions of ghee and fats.
- Late night snacks should be light, yet filling
- It is highly recommended to exclusively breastfeed for the first six months.
