The composition of breast milk of south African Bantu mothers

Abstract

Two hundred and sixty-six samples of breast milk mainly from urban South African Bantu mothers have been analysed. In respect of total solids, ash, protein, fat, lactose, calcium and phosphorus, it has been found that mean valyes closely approximate to corresponding means given for the milks of British and American mothers. The composition of the milks does not appear to be influencd by the tribal group of the mothers, by their habitual diet (largely composed of maize, bread, legumes), nor by their nutritional state. Their capacity to breast-feed is almost invariable, moreover, impressions suggest that the yield is satisfactory at least for the first 6 months. It is submitted that either the rôle of diet in lactation is over-emphasized, or that the body has a greater capacity to adapt itself to an inferior diet than is usually accepted.