Question

26. The production of colostrum is followed by:

a) childbirth.
b) conception.
c) lactation.
d) parturition.

Answer 1

(c) is correct

Colostrum production is the first stage of milk secretion by the mammary glands and is followed by lactation, which is the ongoing production and secretion of milk from the mammary glands to feed the newborn.

Answer 2

The correct answer is a) It helps boost the newborn's immune system. Colostrum, produced during the first few days after birth, is vital for providing immunity to the newborn, rather than primarily providing fat, hydration, or satisfying appetite.

Step-by-step explanation:

The production of colostrum is an essential early phase of lactation which is crucial for a newborn's health. Colostrum is secreted during the first 48-72 hours postpartum and although in small volumes, it provides significant benefits to the newborn. The main importance of colostrum is its rich content of immunoglobulins which help boost the newborn's immune system as they adapt to a nonsterile environment outside the womb. This is achieved by conferring gastrointestinal, and potentially systemic, immunity.

Answering the multiple-choice question, the best choice is a). It helps boost the newborn's immune system. Colostrum is designed to provide potent protective effects rather than serving primarily as a source of fat, hydration, or satiation of appetite, which are secondary to its immunological role.

It helps boost the newborn's immune system. Colostrum's high immunoglobulin content is critical for protecting the infant during early life.