International Board of Certified Lactation Consultant (IBCLC) Practice Exam

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Compared to mature milk, colostrum is higher in which two components?

Fat and lactose
Protein and sodium
Carbohydrates and minerals
Vitamins and sugars

The correct answer is: Protein and sodium

Colostrum, the first milk produced after childbirth, is known for its unique composition that supports the newborn's needs in the early days of life. It is particularly rich in proteins and minerals, which are vital for the newborn's immune system and overall health. The higher protein content in colostrum is essential for promoting growth and providing antibodies, which help bolster the infant's immune defense against infections. Additionally, colostrum contains elevated levels of sodium and other minerals that play important roles in the infant's hydration and metabolic processes. Mature milk, by contrast, gradually shifts in composition to have higher fat and lactose content, which are essential for energy and brain development as the infant grows. However, the specific nutritional characteristics of colostrum provide a concentrated source of nutrition tailored to the infant's early developmental needs, making it distinctively higher in protein and sodium compared to mature milk.