colostrum

 

colostrum

Def.: secretion of the breast in the 1st 2-4 days after delivery
Features:
1- Amount: 40-60 ml/day.  
2- Color: deep lemon yellow.
3- Specific Gravity: high (1040 – 1060).
4- PH: alkaline.
5- Composition:

• protein 8% ( breast milk)
• CHO 4% ( breast milk)
• Fat 3% ( breast milk)
• Minerals ( breast milk)
• Calories (58 cal/100ml).

6- Microscopically: - Colostrum corpuscles

• Mononuclear, polymorph nuclear leucocytes.
• Fat globules of variable size.

Function:
1- High nutritive value ( protein).
2- Contain Ab (IgA).
3- Laxative effect: help meconium evacuation.
N.B.: If colostrum persists breast win not secrete milk.