Colostrum composition, maternal diet and nutrition in north India.

Abstract

This study is based on 35 lactating Indian mothers. They were grouped Into 20 well-nourished and 15 under-nourished mothers by standard nutritional anthropometry. Their daily dietary intakes were docu mented. The mothers' sera were analysed for total portein and cholesterol contents, and also for the immunoglobulin, vitamins A, E, and iron levels. Concentrations of macro- and micronutrients, such as, proteins, lipids, vitamin A and E, trace elements (e.g. calcium, magnesium, zinc, and iron), as well as non specific antimicrobial agents, like lactoferrin, lysozyme, and Immunoglobulins, G, A, M, and E In their first breast secretions were measured. The diets consumed by the lactating well- and under-nourished mothers are similar except more calories, fat, calcium, phosphorus, and retinol are consumed by the former group. Our results suggest that the levels of these nutritional and anti-infective agents in cobs trum of poorly nourished women Is by and large comparable to that of well-nourished women except for protein, fat, and IgA.