Question: What Are Some Specific Enzymes Present In Breast Milk?
Answer:
Enzymes in breast milk serve a variety of functions. Here is a breakdown of the most important enzymes involved in infant digestion:
- Amylase is the main polysaccharide-digesting enzyme. It is available in breast milk and in the pancreas after 6 months of age.
- Lipase breaks down milk fat. This is in breast milk and the intestines. It makes free fatty acids available before digestion in the intestines.
- Diastase speeds up the process of hydrolysis of starch to maltose.
- Protease speeds up the process of hydrolysis of proteins.
- Lactose synthetase speeds up the formation of lactose from glucose and UDP galactose.
The milk enzymes include:
- Bifidus factor, which allows for the growth of beneficial bacteria; keeps the PH in the gut low; supports an "unfriendly" environment for growth of bacteria.
- Complement allows for nonspecific body defense against inflammation.
- Lactoperoxidase aids in the destruction of strep.
- Oligosaccharides aid in onstructing antigens from attaching to the gastrointestinal tract.
Also related to the function of enzymes:
- Human Growth Factors I, II, and III, which trigger RNA synthesis, cell growth and the development of intestinal tissue.
- Lactoferrin, which is an iron-binding protein.
- Lysozyme, which is an antimicrobial.
Source:
Lawrence RA. Breastfeeding: A Guide For the Medical Professional. St. Louis, MO: Mosby. 1999.
