Human Milk And Infant Formula Flashcards
Describe the difference in composition between human milk and infant formula.
Human milk - specifically designed to meet the nutritional needs of human infants - contains a balance of carbohydrates, proteins, and fats, along with vitamins, minerals, enzymes, hormones, and growth factors – also contains live cells for ex immune cells and antibodies - provide protection against infections and supports the development of the infant’s immune system.
Infant formula - commercially prepared substitute for human milk - made from a combination of processed cow’s milk or soy protein, supplemented with carbohydrates, vegetable oils, vitamins, and minerals to mimic nutritional composition of human milk - does not have the exact same components that a baby would need.
Describe the difference between the effects on the GI tract of human milk and infant formula.
Human milk - easily digestible, suited for the infant’s immature digestive system - contains enzymes and growth factors that promote the maturation of the GI tract, aiding in nutrient absorption and gut development - contains proteins that are easily broken down and fats that are readily absorbed.
Infant formula - harder to digest compared to human milk - proteins and fats in formula can be more challenging for the baby’s digestive system to break down - formula-fed infants may have firmer stools and experience more digestive discomfort compared to breastfed infants.
Describe the difference of gut microbiome between human milk and infant formula.
Human milk - contains beneficial bacteria, known as probiotics that help establish a healthy gut microbiome in the baby.
Infant formula - Infant formula does not naturally contain probiotics.
Describe the difference of immune protection between human milk and infant formula.
Human milk - human milk is rich in antibodies that provide protection against infections - provides significant immune protection to the infant due to the presence of antibodies, immune cells, and other bioactive components which help protect against a variety of infections.
Infant formula - formula-fed infants do not receive the same level of protection against infections and diseases as breastfed infants - lacks the immune-protective components found in human milk.
