Which protein in breast milk is easily digestible compared to cow's milk?

The protein in breast milk that is easily digestible compared to cow's milk is whey protein. Whey protein constitutes about 60% of the protein content in human breast milk and is known for its high bioavailability and digestibility. Infants have immature digestive systems, and the whey proteins are softer and more soluble than the casein proteins found in cow's milk, making them easier for infants to break down and absorb.

In contrast, casein, which makes up a significant portion of the protein in cow's milk, forms curds in the stomach and is digested more slowly. This slower digestion can be a concern for very young infants, as it can lead to gastrointestinal discomfort. Albumin and collagen are present in much smaller amounts and do not have the same profile of digestibility as whey proteins. Thus, the readily digestible nature of whey protein in human breast milk plays a crucial role in providing nutrients efficiently to infants, supporting their growth and development.