DefinePK

Abstract

The breast milk is a complex and dynamic fluid that is composed of various constituents, including water, proteins, fats, carbohydrates, vitamins, minerals, immunoglobulins, and other bioactive compounds. Each of these constituents plays a crucial role in the infant's growth and development, particularly in the first few months of life. Apart from that, the stages of lactation in human breast milk is crucial for supporting successful breastfeeding, infant health, and maternal well-being. The child health is dependent on the nutritional composition of breast milk or formula milk, including the presence of important nutrients and any potential deficits in these components can lead to a compromise on child health. In addition, the child health is also reliant on on mother’s hygiene and feeding practices and it is impossible to underestimate the significance of mother hygiene in preserving the quality of breast milk. This review focuses on the comparison of the components of breast milk and formula milk and their effects on the health of children, with an emphasis on feeding techniques, nutrition, and hygiene.