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Question

Consider the following statements about human breast milk : 

1. 75% of breast milk content is water. 

2. Breast milk is poor in taurine and cysteine. 

3. Breast milk is particularly rich in omega 2 and omega 6 fatty acids. 

4. High lactose content of breast milk helps in absorption of calcium. 

Which of the statements given above are correct?

The correct answer is
3 and 4 only

Analysis of Human Breast Milk Statements

Let's evaluate each statement regarding human breast milk composition:

Statement 1: Water Content

Statement 1 claims 75% of breast milk is water. While breast milk is largely composed of water (essential for hydration), the typical percentage is higher, around 87-88%. Therefore, stating it's 75% is inaccurate.

Statement 2: Taurine and Cysteine

Statement 2 suggests breast milk is poor in taurine and cysteine. This is incorrect. Breast milk is a rich source of these essential amino acids, which are vital for infant development, particularly brain and eye function.

Statement 3: Omega Fatty Acids

Statement 3 states breast milk is particularly rich in omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids. Human breast milk contains essential fatty acids, including linoleic acid (an omega-6) and alpha-linolenic acid (an omega-3), as well as their derivatives like arachidonic acid (AA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA). These are crucial for neurological and visual development. This statement is considered correct.

Statement 4: Lactose and Calcium Absorption

Statement 4 mentions that high lactose content helps in calcium absorption. Lactose, the primary carbohydrate in breast milk, aids in the absorption of minerals like calcium and magnesium. It does this by promoting a slightly acidic environment in the infant's gut and encouraging the growth of beneficial bacteria, which facilitates mineral uptake. This statement is correct.

Conclusion on Correct Statements

Based on the analysis:

  • Statement 1 is incorrect.
  • Statement 2 is incorrect.
  • Statement 3 is correct.
  • Statement 4 is correct.

Therefore, the statements that are correct are 3 and 4.

This corresponds to Option D.

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Important Questions from Neonatal Care

  1. Which one of the following statements is correct regarding physiology of breastfeeding?
  2. If a baby does not begin breathing in response to tactile stimulation, then the baby is assumed to be in:
  3. Consider the following conditions :
    Response to tactile stimulationHeart RateBlood PressureTone
    AYesNormalNormalNormal
    BYesFallingNormalDecreasing
    CNoFallingFallingDecreasing
    DNoRisingNormalNormal
    Primary apnea in a neonate is characterized by which one of the above conditions?
  4. Which of the following are signs of good attachment during breastfeeding? 

    1. The baby's nose is at the level of the nipple. 

    2. The baby's mouth is wide open. 

    3. The baby's chin touches the breast. 

    4. The baby's lower lip is everted. 

    Select the correct answer using the code given below:

  5. A full-term baby born with birth weight of 2000 g comes for well-baby visit at two months of age. Which of the following nutritional supplements would you advise?
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