I have finally had the opportunity to catch up on all my LactNets and felt
that I needed to respond to this subject.
"She did not state that formula does not change gut flora but that "just
one bottle" in the first two weeks would not change the flora--it takes up
to two weeks for the gut flora to settle into what it is eventually going
to be."
We do know that the infant gut takes about 2 weeks to establish gut flora.
While this rapid development of flora takes place, any assault from other
sources would surely impact the quality of protection that colostrum
affords infants. AIM is a dead food, and will impact the infant's live gut
flora. The only thing that should be in an infant's gut is human milk.
'A newborn is birthed into our environment sterile. Immediately, bacteria
begin colonization on the baby's skin and in his mucosal membranes, which
are located throughout his body. (Hanson, 2004)A newborn baby who is fed
colostrum exclusively has an enormous advantage over the artificially fed
baby because of the protective immunities that are offered. Colostrum’s
qualities are unique. It is species specific and designed for the
development of human infants. (Lawerence & Lawerence, 1999)
Colostrum is a living fluid, resembling blood in its composition. It
contains over sixty components, thirty of which are exclusive to human
milk. It is species-specific, designed for human babies. (Neville &
Neifert, 1985)
This fluid is rich in immunoglobulins, which protect infants from viruses
and infections. (Lucas, 1998) The main immunoglobulin in human milk is
secretory IgA (sIgA). The antibodies produced are specific to the mother’s
environment and are targeted against the pathogens in the infant’s
surroundings. It is also responsible for continuing the passive immunities
that were provided in utero by the placenta, such as poliovirus and
rubella.
The main function of sIgA, along with other immunoglobulins, is to “paint”
the lining of infant’s stomach and intestines. These surfaces are then able
to defend the baby against viruses and bacteria, by not allowing pathogens
to adhere to them. (Alm & Engstrand, 2002) Some of these incredible
immunoglobulins actually attack pathogens and kill them. These components
are important in fighting and preventing necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC) in
premature infants, which can be fatal. (Hanson & Korotkonva, 2002) These
defensive actions provide the newborn with optimal protection.'
The above was quoted from "The Importance of Colostrum" which I authored.
The article appeared in Leaven in the Jan/Feb 2005 issue.
Keep in mind that colostrum continues to be secreted in transitional milk
for up to 2 weeks. Guess mother nature got it right with human development.
It is important that we continue to educate the medical establishment on
this vital information. It is also necessary that we speak about the
importance of colostrum to expectant parents so they can advocate for their
newborn babies.
Ellen Penchuk, IBCLC, RLC
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