You produce liquid gold – but how? Everything you need to know about colostrum
"When it comes to its nutritional profile, colostrum gets an A-plus (plus!) and as you can imagine, that translates into several benefits for your little one."
Colostrum is your baby’s first milk. It is commonly referred to as ‘liquid gold’ by doctors, and for good reason, as it is an incredibly powerful drink that mums-to-be produce for their little bubs. But what exactly is it? Why do our bodies make it? And how is it different from regular breast milk?
Dr Kirsty Wallace-Hor, a GP at Kin Fertility, helps us answer these and other questions you may have about colostrum. Let’s dive into it.
Colostrum is your baby’s very first milk.
What is colostrum?
“Colostrum is the thick, golden-coloured concentrate that is released in the first few days after birth before mature breast milk comes in,” Dr Kirsty explains.
“The body starts to produce colostrum during the second trimester of pregnancy,” she adds, “and sometimes nipples can leak a bit of colostrum, particularly in the time leading up to birth, which is normal.”
Colostrum generally lasts 2 to 5 days after birth and you may express 1 to 4 teaspoons worth each day (remember, your baby’s stomach is tiny at this point, so this amount is likely more than enough).
What nutrients are in colostrum?
Your body doesn’t produce colostrum just because. This liquid gold is like a superfood for newborns that helps them stay healthy during their first few days earth-side, and that’s all thanks to the nutrients and antibodies it is packed with.
So, what nutrients are these? Well, to name just a few: there’s protein, vitamin A, vitamin B12, vitamin K, magnesium, copper, zinc, antioxidants… and the list goes on.
What are the benefits of colostrum for your baby?
When it comes to its nutritional profile, colostrum gets an A-plus (plus!) and as you can imagine, that translates into several benefits for your little one.
“It provides all the nutrients needed by a newborn, helps them pass their first poo and promotes a healthy gut,” says Dr Kirsty. “It also contains important antibodies to help prevent infection and strengthen a baby’s immature immune system.”
Additionally, the vitamins in colostrum help nourish your baby’s skin and vision, as well as promote healthy brain development, and the magnesium supports their bones and heart health.
For all these reasons, colostrum is particularly beneficial in supporting the caloric and nutritional needs of premature babies. Even if your little one isn’t ready to breastfeed just yet, your nurse will be able to help you feed them.
Dr Kirsty Wallace-Hor, a GP at Kin Fertility.
What if you don’t produce colostrum?
Although it is unlikely that you won’t produce any colostrum, you may be worried if the quantity you do produce is enough for your baby. The truth is that, because colostrum is so concentrated, your body will usually only make small amounts at a time.
“To help boost your supply, try to get lots of skin-to-skin contact with your baby, share the same room, keep well hydrated, and breastfeed regularly,” Dr Kirsty recommends.
If your concerns persist, Dr Kirsty suggests you speak with your midwife, doctor, or lactation consultant.
“You can also get support from the Australian Breastfeeding Association, which is a government-funded organisation with great online resources and a free helpline,” she adds.
See more information on breastfeeding your newborn here …
