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Few would deny the benefits of breastfeeding a newborn. It provides the child with the best possible nutrition and also helps protect from infection. It has also been shown to reduce the incidence of SIDS (sudden infant death syndrome). Mothers also benefit through mother-infant bonding, induction of uterine involution, reduced breast cancer risk, contraception and it is easy and inexpensive. The initial milk expressed from the breast is called colostrum and is perhaps the most important. Below, the differences between breast milk and colostrum are described, and then the benefits of colostrum outlined.

Breast milk is an emulsification of fats in an solution consisting of sugar (lactose), proteins (casein and lactalbumin), as well as cations (sodium, calcium and potassium) and anions (chloride and phosphate). Proteins help in muscle growth, immunity and overall body function, sugars and fats provide energy, fat promote weight gain, and the electrolytes are important for cell function and fluid balance. It also contains several vitamins and minerals that are important for the newborns growth and development. Breast milk also contains immunoglobulins (better known as antibodies), particularly IgA, which coat the child's gut and help protect them from infection until their own immune system develops.

Relative to breast milk, colostrum contains more protein, sodium, chloride, fat-soluble vitamins and antibodies. The fat soluble vitamins are A, important for visual development, D, important for bone health, E, an antioxidant, and K, essential for blood clotting and reduces the chances of 'hemorrhagic disease of the newborn'. The antibodies allow transference of the mother's immunity to the newborn as it enters the world and becomes exposed to new bugs.

Relative to breast milk, colostrum contains a lower concentration of lactose, potassium, fat and water-soluble vitamins (B and C vitamins).

Colostrum is essentially a very high quality form of breast milk, which is already a great food source for newborns. It provides the optimum nutritional requirements in a palatable form, ensuring they grow well, are protected from infections and form a lasting bond with their mother (with continued breastfeeding).

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