Breast milk provides the most complete and suitable nutrition for the baby. Breast milk is rich in proteins, carbohydrates, fats, vitamins and minerals, which can meet the growth and development needs of newborns. However, if you've ever seen a newborn suck on breast milk, you may wonder: Why is breast milk white?
The first thing to be clear is that breast milk is not always white. Breast milk is yellow when it is initially produced, called colostrum. After that, the breast milk will gradually turn white. The color of breast milk comes mainly from substances such as fat and protein in it, and the content and proportion of these substances change with time and breastfeeding behavior.
Colostrum is a concentrated nutrient rich in components such as protein, fat, and antibodies, hence its yellow color. However, due to the large fat and protein particles in it, it is easy to form a milky liquid, resulting in thicker breast milk and a yellow color.
Generally, over a few days to weeks, breast milk gradually turns white, because the fat and protein particles in breast milk become smaller (micronized), making it easier to digest and absorb, and also helping the baby to take in breast milk. In addition, white breast milk also contains certain minerals such as calcium, phosphorus, iron, and nutrients such as various vitamins and growth factors.
So why do the fat and protein particles in breast milk become smaller? It is a mechanical stimulation caused by lactation, which promotes the synthesis and secretion of breast epithelial cells, thereby gradually changing the composition of breast milk; At the same time, breastfeeding also stimulates the production of prolactin and promotes the secretion of milk. In this process, stimulation of the nipple and areola also promotes the secretion and flow of milk, promoting the micronization of fat and protein.
In addition to the above mechanisms, the color of breast milk may also be affected by the diet and health status of the breastfeeding person. For example, if a nursing woman's diet contains a lot of carotene or carotenoids, the fat in breast milk will turn yellow or orange; If a nursing woman takes certain medications, it can also cause a change in the color of breast milk. In addition, in some cases, such as breast infections, poor blood circulation, etc., it may also cause abnormal colors such as red or brown breast milk.
In short, why breast milk is white depends mainly on the nutrients in it and the size of its particles. The color and composition of breast milk are gradually changed according to the needs of the breastfeeding person. Breast milk provides the best nutrition for the baby and protects the baby's health, so mothers are advised to breastfeed and pay attention to maintaining good eating habits and lifestyles. If you have questions or concerns about breastfeeding, it is advisable to consult a professional doctor or obstetrician.