Breastmilk Nutrient Content

PROTEIN Whey: Casein HUMAN MILK COW’S MILK WHEY 60% WHEY 20% CASEIN 40% CASEIN 80%

Whey vs. Casein Whey Form very light curds and are easy to digest High in anti-infective proteins (mainly IgA) Casein Form thick curds that are difficult to digest Higher incidence of colic and pain in the abdomen

Specific proteins found in breast milk and their benefits: Lactoferrin inhibits the growth of iron-dependent bacteria in the GIT Secretory IgA protect the infant from viruses and bacteria and possibly allergies. Lysozyme protects the infant against E. Coli and Salmonella. also promotes the growth of healthy intestinal flora and has anti- inflammatory functions. Bifidus factor supports the growth of lactobacillus which is a beneficial bacteria that protects the baby against harmful bacteria by creating an acidic environment Lipase, amylase and other enzymes

LIPIDS - Major caloric source (50% of calorie content) Composition Palmitic acid, oleic acid Phospholipids EFA: Linoleic and Linolenic acids PUFA: DHA and arachidonic acid Cholesterol Bile salt stimulated lipase

LIPIDS: Human Milk vs. Cow’s Milk Human Milk Cow’s Milk Essential Fatty AcidsPresentAbsent Bile stimulated lipasePresentAbsent Binding with calciumLessMore

CARBOHYDRATES - Provides 40% of calories in breastmilk Composition Lactose Monosaccharides Neutral and acid oligosaccharides Peptide and protein bound CHO

Lactose Source of galactose  galactolipids  myelin formation Improves absorption of Ca and P Influences milk volume since adequate CHO is important for optimal lactation Some gets fermented to produce lactic acid – Inhibits the growth of pathogenic bacteria – Keep Fe in ferrous form to enhance its absorption

Oligosaccharides CHO polymer structure including mucin. Mimics bacterial antigen receptor, preventing bacterial attachment to host mucosa

VITAMINS B vitamins Vitamin C Vitamin A B vitamins Vitamin C Vitamin A HUMAN MILK COW’S MILK

MINERALS Fe content: 50-70µg/100 mL; better absorption in breastmilk Calcium: Breastmilk contains 1/3 of calcium in cow’s milk but absorption of breastmilk is much better