Human Breast Milk

Human milk provides distinct advantages over formula or cow milk for human infants. Not only is breast milk’s nutritional composition uniquely designed for the needs of human babies, but it also contains antibodies from the mother’s immune system that help the infant fight off infections and diseases. During the first few days after giving birth, a mother releases colostrum, a yellowish liquid that contains less fat and lactose and more protein and antibodies than regular breast milk. After about three or four days, colostrum is replaced by a bluish-white milk that is higher in fats and carbohydrates, reflecting the energy needs of a growing baby (see Breast-feeding).