After premature delivery, mother’s milk is low in –
**Core Concept**
Premature birth affects the composition and quantity of breast milk, posing challenges for newborns to thrive. Breast milk is a dynamic fluid that adapts to the baby's needs, but premature delivery can disrupt this balance, leading to inadequate nutrition for the infant.
**Why the Correct Answer is Right**
Premature milk, also known as colostrum, is initially low in fat and high in water content. This composition helps to prevent infection but may not provide sufficient calories for the premature baby. The low fat content in premature milk is due to the delayed onset of lactogenesis II, which is the process of milk production and differentiation into mature milk.
**Why Each Wrong Option is Incorrect**
**Option A:** Not relevant to the context of premature delivery and breast milk composition.
**Option B:** While it's true that breast milk is low in sodium, this is not the primary concern in premature delivery.
**Option C:** Lactose is actually more abundant in breast milk, particularly in premature milk, as it helps to prevent infection.
**Clinical Pearl / High-Yield Fact**
Premature milk, or colostrum, is rich in immunoglobulins, which provide essential protection against infection for the newborn. However, its low fat content may necessitate supplementation with donor milk or formula to ensure adequate nutrition for the premature baby.
**Correct Answer: C. Lactose.**