The average energy value of human milk is:?

SGPGI Nursing Officer-2022

Applied Nutrition & Dietetics

Easy

Appeared in: SGPGI Nursing Officer-2022

Explanation

Human milk provides approximately 67-70 kcal of energy per 100 ml, which is the ideal amount for an infant's growth and development needs.
This energy is primarily derived from fats (about 3.5 g/100 ml) and carbohydrates, mainly lactose (about 7.0 g/100 ml).
The specific composition of human milk, including its caloric density, is perfectly tailored to the metabolic capabilities and nutritional requirements of a newborn.
Lactose, the main carbohydrate, is particularly important as it aids in brain development and promotes the growth of healthy gut bacteria.

Option A: This value is too low. 50 kcal/100 ml would not provide sufficient energy for a growing infant, potentially leading to malnutrition or 'failure to thrive'.
Option C: This value is significantly higher than the actual energy content of human milk. Such a high caloric density is found in special high-energy formulas for infants with specific medical needs, not in standard breast milk.
Option D: This value is more than double the actual energy value of human milk and is incorrect. This level of caloric density is not appropriate for infant feeding.

Clinical Relevance

Nursing practice connection: This is primarily an exam-oriented knowledge point with limited direct bedside application, so retain Nutritional value of human milk as background academic context rather than a clinical decision trigger.
Nurses play a crucial role in educating new mothers on the benefits of breastfeeding, reassuring them that their milk provides all the necessary energy and nutrients for the first 6 months of life.
Knowledge of the caloric value of breast milk is essential for assessing infant growth patterns. If a baby is not gaining weight appropriately, it prompts a deeper assessment of feeding techniques and milk transfer.
What if? If an infant is born prematurely, their caloric and protein needs are higher than a term infant's. In this case, breast milk is often fortified with a human milk fortifier to increase its energy and nutrient density to support catch-up growth.

How to Approach the Question

This is a factual recall question that tests your knowledge of basic infant nutrition.
First, identify the key terms in the question: 'average energy value' and 'human milk'.
Recall the standard nutritional information for human milk. The accepted range for its energy value is approximately 65-70 kcal per 100 ml.
Compare this known value to the options provided.
Select the option that falls within or is closest to this established range. In this case, 70 kcal per 100 ml is the correct choice.

Concept Tested & Keywords

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E6 textbook of Applied Biochemistry and Nutrition & DieteticsHarbans Lal (pp 26-464 of 479) p. 338-340

E6 Parks TextBook of Preventive & Social Medicine part 2 — Subpart A (pp 1-232 of 464) p. 35-37