Tag: Newborn immunity

Over a third of people in a recent survey were unaware that the thick, yellowish milk produced immediately after childbirth, known as colostrum, has several other names. This rich, concentrated fluid is often called "liquid gold" or "first milk" due to its immense nutritional and immunological value for a newborn. Understanding these alternative names can help parents, caregivers, and health professionals communicate more effectively about this vital substance.

Dubbed "liquid gold" due to its precious immune-boosting properties, colostrum is the initial form of milk produced by mammals after giving birth. It is remarkably concentrated, nutrient-dense, and rich in antibodies, providing a powerful first defense for the newborn's developing body.

Recent studies have confirmed that human milk contains a diverse array of proteins that are essential for infant development. The most abundant protein in human colostrum, the 'first milk' produced after childbirth, is lactoferrin, a key component in the newborn's defense against infection and inflammation.

Failure of passive transfer (FPT), a major cause of newborn sickness and death in livestock, occurs when a newborn does not receive adequate antibodies from its mother's first milk, colostrum. When maternal colostrum is unavailable or of poor quality, knowing what is a good substitute for colostrum is essential for ensuring the newborn's health. This guide explores viable alternatives and when to use them.