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Can babies drink transitional milk?

Understanding Transitional Milk
Transitional milk is a unique type of breast milk that plays a crucial role in the early days of a newborn’s life. It is produced between days 5 to 14 postpartum, serving as a bridge between colostrum—the first milk rich in antibodies—and mature milk, which becomes predominant after about two weeks. This transitional phase is vital for a baby’s development, as it contains a different composition of nutrients compared to both colostrum and mature milk.
Nutritional Composition
The composition of transitional milk is notably different from that of colostrum. While colostrum is highly concentrated with nutrients and antibodies, transitional milk is creamier and richer in fat and lactose, which are essential for a baby’s growth and energy needs. This milk helps to support the infant’s immune system while also preparing their digestive system for the more diluted mature milk that follows.
Can Babies Drink Transitional Milk?
Yes, babies can and should drink transitional milk. In fact, it is a natural part of the breastfeeding process. During the first few weeks after birth, transitional milk is the primary source of nutrition for infants who are breastfed. It is specifically designed to meet the changing needs of a growing baby, providing essential nutrients that support their rapid development during this critical period.
Transitioning to Other Milks
As babies grow, their nutritional needs evolve. After the transitional milk phase, typically around two weeks postpartum, mature milk begins to appear. This mature milk is thinner and more watery, but it continues to provide the necessary nutrients for infants.
When considering the introduction of other types of milk, such as cow’s milk, it’s important to note that pediatric guidelines recommend waiting until a baby is at least 12 months old before introducing whole cow’s milk. This is because infants under one year cannot digest cow’s milk as easily as breast milk or formula, which can lead to nutritional deficiencies and digestive issues.
Conclusion
In summary, transitional milk is an essential component of a newborn’s diet during the first two weeks of life. It is perfectly safe and beneficial for babies to consume, providing them with the necessary nutrients to thrive. As they grow, parents should follow pediatric recommendations regarding the introduction of other types of milk, ensuring that their child’s nutritional needs are met at every stage of development.

What is the function of transitional milk?

In addition to increased intestinal development, transition milk also has health benefits. As mentioned earlier, transition milk contains important components, including bioactive molecules such as growth hormones, prebiotics, and antibodies.

What milk comes after transitional milk?

How your milk changes

Days after birth Type of milk How it looks
Birth to day 2 or 3 Colostrum Thick, yellow in colour, small amount
Days 3 to 5 Transitional milk Mixture of colostrum and mature milk more plentiful
Days 5 to 7 Mature milk begins Thinner, whitish, plentiful

May 18, 2020

What milk alternative is closest to breastmilk?

Goat’s milk
Goat’s milk, by nature, is closer to human breast milk than cow’s milk or soy, which means less processing and more natural goodness. It is high in oligosaccharides, similar in protein levels to human breastmilk, and is low in lactose, which makes it perfect for babies and toddlers with sensitive tummies.

At what age may an infant be safely transition to cow’s milk?

When Should I Introduce My Child to Cow’s Milk? At 12 months old (but not before), your child can be introduced to cow’s milk.

Is it okay to give baby frozen colostrum?

Yes, frozen colostrum does help a sick baby. Research studies have proven that sick or preterm infants who take colostrum from mothers have “significantly better health outcomes”. Colostrum is made up of immune factors, protein, sugar, and facts. Therefore, every drop counts!

Can I start transitioning my 10 month old to whole milk?

When should I introduce cow’s milk? You can introduce 3.25% homogenized whole cow’s milk at 9 to 12 months of age once your baby is eating a variety of iron-rich foods at least twice a day. Offer cow’s milk in a regular cup (not a sippy cup). This will help your baby learn how to drink.

What is the difference between transitional milk and milk?

—transitional. It’s the stage of breast milk between colostrum and mature milk. Transitional milk contains more calories than colostrum and has high levels of fat, lactose, and water-soluble vitamins. This stage of milk is when you may experience engorgement.

What happens if I give my 11 month old whole milk?

If your child is under 1 year old, you should not feed your baby cow’s milk, according to the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP). This is because cow’s milk doesn’t provide enough of certain nutrients such as vitamin E, iron, and essential fatty acids.

Can I stop formula at 11 months?

Age baby stops drinking formula
Your baby will be ready to stop drinking formula around 12 months. Around this time, your baby should be able to meet their nutritional needs with solid foods and will no longer need formula to do so.

Can you feed a baby transitional milk?

Yes! As long as it’s frozen use the transitional milk. But use it sooner rather than later. Because your milk just keeps maturing as times goes one. And that transitional milk is good for baby now, also don’t mix different milks from different times ☺️ hope this helps!

Natasha Lunn

Tash is an IBCLC and Business Coach helping fellow IBCLCs create fun, profitable businesses that are more than just an expensive hobby. Before becoming an IBCLC and starting her private practice - The Boobala, Tash graduated as an Osteopath in 2008 and has been in Private Practice in South West Sydney. She was also a volunteer Breastfeeding Counsellor and Community Educator with the Australian Breastfeeding Association for 6 years. Through her business, Your Lactation Biz, Tash coaches and creates products to help new and seasoned IBCLCs build businesses that suit their personality and lifestyle.

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