Compared to whole milk, breast milk is typically characterized by what nutritional composition?

Breast milk is known for its unique nutritional composition, which is particularly well-suited for infants. Compared to whole milk, breast milk contains lower levels of protein. This lower protein content is beneficial for infants, as it helps prevent overload on their immature kidneys. Additionally, breast milk has higher concentrations of fat, which are essential for brain development and energy supply in growing infants.

Moreover, breast milk contains higher amounts of carbohydrates, particularly lactose, which is the primary sugar found in it. This carbohydrate is important for providing energy and promoting the growth of beneficial gut bacteria. The balance of nutrients in breast milk is specifically designed to meet the nutritional needs of infants in their early months of life, making it superior to whole milk in this regard. The composition also supports optimal growth and development, which is why breast milk is recommended as the primary source of nutrition for infants.