IBCLC Practice Exam 2026 – Complete Preparation Guide

The average fat content of human milk typically hovers around 4%. This composition is crucial for the nutritional needs of infants, providing essential fatty acids necessary for brain development and overall growth. The variance in fat content can occur throughout a feeding, with foremilk being lower in fat, transitioning to higher fat content in the hindmilk, which is especially beneficial for satisfying an infant's energy needs. Thus, understanding that the average is approximately 4% is important for lactation consultants in guiding breastfeeding practices and ensuring adequate infant nutrition.