Question

Which statement is true with respect to colostrum?

• A. It is a yellowish fluid secreted by the mother during later days of lactation.
• B. Colostrum provides passive immunity to the infant.
• C. Colostrum is rich in carbohydrates and has no antibodies.
• D. Colostrum provides active immunity to the infant.

Hint:

Colostrum is the first milk, rich in antibodies like IgA, and is crucial for providing passive immunity to the newborn in the first few days of life.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is B

Step 1: Understand what colostrum is.
Colostrum is the first milk produced by the mammary glands of mammals immediately following the delivery of the newborn. It is a thick, yellowish fluid secreted during the initial days of lactation, not the later days.
Step 2: Composition of colostrum.
Colostrum is extremely rich in:
Antibodies (especially Immunoglobulin A or IgA)
White blood cells
Proteins
Vitamins and minerals
These components help in building the newborn's immune defenses.
Step 3: Type of immunity provided.
The antibodies present in colostrum are transferred from the mother to the infant, giving the infant immediate protection against infections. This is an example of passive immunity, since the infant is not producing the antibodies itself.
Step 4: Evaluate the options.
Option (1): Incorrect — Colostrum is secreted in the early days of lactation, not later.
Option (2): Correct — It provides passive immunity via maternal antibodies.
Option (3): Incorrect — It does contain antibodies, contrary to what's stated.
Option (4): Incorrect — It does not provide active immunity, since the infant does not produce the antibodies.