Colostrum
Colostrum (pronunciation: kuh-los-truhm) is the first form of milk produced by the mammary glands of mammals (including humans) immediately following delivery of the newborn.
Etymology
The term "colostrum" comes from the Latin colostrum, which means "foremilk". It is derived from colare, meaning "to strain".
Definition
Colostrum is a thick, yellowish fluid that is rich in protein, vitamin A, and sodium chloride, but contains lower amounts of carbohydrates, lipids, and potassium than normal milk. The most pertinent bioactive components in colostrum are growth factors and antimicrobial factors. The antibodies in colostrum provide passive immunity, while growth factors stimulate the development of the gut.
Related Terms
- Lactation: The process of producing milk in the mammary glands, allowing mammals to feed their offspring.
- Antibodies: Proteins produced by the body's immune system to fight off foreign substances, such as bacteria and viruses.
- Gut Flora: The complex community of microorganisms that live in the digestive tracts of humans and other animals.
- Passive Immunity: The short-term immunity that results from the introduction of antibodies from another person or animal.
See Also
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Colostrum
- Wikipedia's article - Colostrum
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