Why do we talk about “liquid gold” or “first vaccine”?
Colostrum is the very first milk produced by the mother in the hours following birth. It is secreted for up to approximately 24 to 48 hours after delivery and differs significantly from mature breast milk in terms of its composition, concentration and biological function.
For newborns, and even more so for premature babies, colostrum is a vital resource, both nutritionally and immunologically. This is why it is often referred to as ‘liquid gold’ or ‘the first vaccine’.
A composition specifically tailored to the needs of newborns
Colostrum is not a ‘preliminary’ version of mature milk. It is a unique secretion, highly concentrated in bioactive components, that meets the immediate needs of newborns, whose immune systems are still immature.
Its composition varies, in particular:
- according to the term of birth,
- and adapts to the specific needs of premature babies.
Studies show that immunoglobulin concentration is highest in the first few hours after birth, then decreases rapidly over the first 24 hours.
A key role in early immunity: the ‘first vaccine’
At birth, newborns are particularly vulnerable in terms of immunity. The passive transfer of antibodies through colostrum therefore plays a fundamental role.
Colostrum is rich in:
- immunoglobulins, including IgA, IgG and IgM,
- immunomodulatory factors,
- immune cells, including white blood cells.
These components help protect against pathogens and establish passive immunity, which is essential during the first days of life. Data show that the amount of colostrum received in the first few hours is crucial for the effectiveness of this immune transfer, including in premature babies.
Digestive and metabolic support from the very first hours
Beyond its immune role, colostrum supports the digestive functions of newborns.
It has, in particular:
- laxative properties, promoting the elimination of meconium,
- a role in the elimination of bilirubin, helping to reduce the risk of jaundice,
- a composition facilitating the initial start-up of the digestive tract.
Its smell, similar to that of amniotic fluid, also helps to reassure the newborn in this new extrauterine environment, promoting early feeding.
In the first hours of life, the volumes ingested are very small – in the order of a few millilitres – but their biological impact is significant.
A major challenge for premature babies
Premature babies are at increased risk of infections and digestive complications. In this context, colostrum plays an even more central role.
Hospital practices show that early administration of colostrum, including in the form of coating the oral or digestive mucosa, allows:
- to strengthen the microbiota,
- to limit the spread of pathogens,
- to reduce certain complications, particularly enterocolitis,
- and support the clinical development of the most fragile newborns.
These benefits explain the development of specific protocols in neonatology, incorporating colostrum as a priority element of nutritional and immune care.
Every drop counts
Colostrum contains a very small volume of components that are essential for the survival and development of newborns. Data show that most immunoglobulin transfer occurs in the first few hours after birth, highlighting the importance of rigorous collection, storage and administration.
For premature babies, where every protective factor is crucial, colostrum is not just a supplement: it is a cornerstone of early care.