Given below are two statements: One is labelled as Assertion A and the other is labelled as Reason R:

Assertion A : Breast-feeding during initial period of infant growth is recommended by doctors for bringing a healthy baby.

Reason R : Colostrum contains several antibodies absolutely essential to develop resistance for the new born baby.

In the light of the above statements, choose the most appropriate answer from the options given below:

The correct answer is: Both A and R are correct and R is the correct explanation of A

Step-by-Step Explanation:

1. Evaluating Assertion A:
Doctors strongly recommend breastfeeding during the initial period of infant growth. Breast milk provides optimal nutrition for newborns, containing a near-perfect mix of vitamins, proteins, and fats in a form that is easily digestible. Therefore, Assertion A is correct.

2. Evaluating Reason R:
The milk produced by the mother during the first few days of lactation is called colostrum. Colostrum is a yellowish fluid that is exceptionally rich in nutrients and antibodies, particularly Immunoglobulin A (IgA). These antibodies provide immediate passive immunity to the newborn, whose own immune system is still immature. This helps the baby resist pathogens and infections. Therefore, Reason R is correct.

3. Determining the Link:
The presence of essential antibodies in colostrum (which builds the baby's immune system and resistance) is the primary scientific reason why doctors advocate for breastfeeding to ensure a healthy infant. Thus, Reason R is the correct explanation of Assertion A.