15/05/2025
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What’s in breastmilk:
1. Water
Breastmilk is composed of about 87% water, which is crucial for keeping your baby hydrated.
2. Proteins
Proteins in breastmilk are essential for your baby’s growth and development.
Whey Proteins: Are highest in early lactation.
Casein Proteins: Casein concentration increases in mature milk and later lactation.
Proteins are highest in premature milk, colostrum and during weaning as an immune defence.
3. Fats
The fats in breastmilk include essential fatty acids, such as DHA (docosahexaenoic acid) and ARA (arachidonic acid), which are crucial for brain and eye development.
The composition of fats in breast milk changes during each feed and throughout lactation to meet your baby’s developmental needs. The fat content of your milk is directly related to the fullness or emptiness of the breast. The emptier the breast, the higher the fat content.
4. Carbohydrates
The primary carbohydrate in breastmilk is lactose, which provides energy for your baby and aids in calcium absorption. Additionally, breastmilk contains oligosaccharides, which are complex sugars that promote the growth of beneficial gut bacteria and protect against harmful pathogens.
5. Vitamins and Minerals
Breastmilk is rich in vitamins and minerals essential for your baby’s growth and overall health. These include:
Vitamins A, C, D, E, and K: support immune function, bone health, and overall development.
6. Antibodies and Immune Cells
One of the most remarkable aspects of breast milk is its immune-boosting properties. Breast milk contains antibodies, such as Secretory IgA specifically to protect mucosal surfaces, as well as lysozymes and lactoferrin which help protect your baby from infections and illnesses.
7. Hormones and Growth Factors
Breastmilk contains various hormones and growth factors that have significant effects on the developing baby’s gut, blood vessels, nervous system and endocrine system.
These include:
Prolactin and Oxytocin
Epidermal Growth Factor (EGF)
Insulin-like Growth Factor (IGF)
