In a compelling post, a mother named Emily Thompson shared two striking images of her breastmilk on social media, illustrating the remarkable changes that can occur during periods of illness. One photo depicted her standard milk, while the other showcased the milk produced when her four-month-old daughter, Mia, was battling the flu.
“The milk on the left is from two weeks ago,” Emily noted in her post. “The milk on the right was expressed this past weekend after we received Mia’s flu test results. Can you see the difference in color? My body adapted to produce antibodies to help her fight off the infection without resorting to medication.”
Emily’s experience is not unique; other mothers have reported similar instances where their breastmilk changed in response to their children’s health needs. But is there scientific backing to these claims?
Scientific Insights on Breastmilk Adaptation
Experts affirm that breastmilk can indeed support a sick child. According to Dr. Sarah Collins, a board-certified lactation consultant, “When a mother or her breastfeeding child becomes ill, the body may increase the caloric content of breastmilk to ensure the infant has the energy required to combat the virus.” This caloric enhancement can manifest as a change in the milk’s appearance, often making it look more yellow.
A study published in Clinical and Translational Immunology in 2013 supports this notion, revealing that colostrum—the initial milk produced by mothers—contains up to 70 percent leukocytes, the cells responsible for fighting infections. This is critical as newborns, having limited exposure to pathogens, are particularly vulnerable. They require a robust supply of maternal immunity during the initial days after birth.
After the first few days of breastfeeding, the leukocyte levels in normal breastmilk typically decrease to about 2 percent, unless the infant or mother is unwell. During such times, the concentration of these infection-fighting white blood cells can surge to as much as 94 percent, closely resembling the leukocyte profiles found in colostrum.
Encouragement for Mothers
Emily revealed that her post has resonated with many, inspiring mothers from around the globe to persist with breastfeeding. She emphasized that her intention was to encourage others to consider the benefits of breastfeeding, while also acknowledging that it’s not a feasible option for every mother. She encourages patience and seeking support when needed, given the remarkable benefits she has personally witnessed.
The ability of women’s bodies to adapt and provide for their children is truly extraordinary. For more insights on similar topics, you might want to explore additional resources such as this one on intrauterine insemination, which offers valuable information on pregnancy and home insemination.
Summary
Emily Thompson’s viral post highlights the adaptive qualities of breastmilk, particularly in response to illness. Experts confirm that breastmilk can change in composition to provide necessary antibodies for sick infants. This remarkable aspect of breastfeeding underscores the importance of maternal health and the body’s ability to support its young in times of need.