What vitamin is absent in colostrum despite it being rich in other nutrients?

Colostrum, the first form of milk produced by mammals following the delivery of a newborn, is known for its high concentration of antibodies, proteins, and other essential nutrients that support the newborn's immune system and overall health. However, it is specifically noted for being deficient in vitamin D.

Vitamin D is crucial for calcium metabolism and bone health, but colostrum contains relatively low levels of this vitamin. This is significant because vitamin D is typically obtained from maternal sources, and it is the exposure to sunlight that primarily synthesizes it in the skin. Newborns are often supplemented with vitamin D after birth, especially since most colostrum does not provide adequate amounts.

In contrast, colostrum is rich in vitamin A, which is important for visual health and immune function. It also contains vitamin C and vitamin K, both of which play critical roles in various bodily functions, including antioxidant protection and blood coagulation respectively. Therefore, the absence of vitamin D in colostrum is a notable point in understanding neonatology and the nutritional needs of infants in their early days of life.