What is Colostrum?
Colostrum is a milk like fluid, secreted from mammary gland post parturition (after giving birth). It develops during pregnancy which lasts for 3-5 days it is considered as first stage of breast milk. Colostrum is a thick, sticky and concentrated which is usually yellow in color and is made up of protein, fats, sugar and immune factors. Therefore it is advised that the new born if breastfed from the first hour of the delivery.
What are the benefits of Colostrum?
Colostrum is loaded with Immunoglobulin, maternal immune cells and cytokines. Infact Colostrum is responsible for the Innate Immunity that the child will develop in the later stage of the life. The major compositions of Colostrum and the broad role of each are summarized below:
Epidermal Growth Factors: is a common mitogenic factor that stimulates the growth of different types of cells, especially fibroblasts and epithelial cells. EGF activates the EGF receptor (EGFR/ErbB), which initiates, in turn, intracellular signaling.
Transforming Growth Factor α: TGF α is homologous to epidermal growth factor (EGF) an has mitogenic properties that stimulate the growth and proliferation of various cells
Transforming growth factor β: (TGF) is a highly pleiotropic cytokine that plays an important role in wound healing, angiogenesis and immunoregulation. The cells of the immune system produce the TGF-β1 isoform, which exerts powerful anti-inflammatory functions, and is a master regulator of the immune response.
Insulin Like Growth Factors: Insulin-like growth factor (IGF) are among several peptide hormones that function primarily to stimulate growth but that also possess some ability to decrease blood glucose levels.
Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor: Vascular endothelial growth factor, is a signal protein that stimulates the formation of blood vessels.
In addition to the above functions, Colostrum creates a strong coating on baby’s intestine and stomach that helps to kill germs and prevent stomach inflammation. Another vital role of colostrum, it is helps to prevent jaundice. Helps to give nutrients to baby’s brain, heart and eyes and easy to digest. Containing protein, fats, vitamins and salts for complete nutrition. Helps to prevent lower blood sugar level with in new born baby.
