Nowadays, mothers face great challenges to choose between breastfeeding and baby formula. It can be a stressful decision given the social and health conditions they may face. Breastfeeding is one of the most important stages in children's lives where they obtain the nutrition and essential protection they need for healthy growth and development.
Breastfeeding has its own unique charm as it combines nutrition with a deep emotional bond between the mother and the child. However, baby formula is an important option in some cases, since it can provide the necessary nutrients for the baby's proper development.
Breastfeeding
Experts assure that breast milk is the best nutritional choice for babies. The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recommends exclusive breastfeeding during the first six months in the baby's life. Breast milk provides the appropriate amounts of nutrients that a child needs, including protein, carbohydrates, fats, and calcium. It also provides natural antibodies that help the child resist diseases and reduces the risk of infection.
Moreover, breast milk can increase the child's intelligence. Studies indicate that breastfed children have higher levels of cognitive functioning. Later on, breast milk may also help the child in reducing the risk of weight gain, or suffering from asthma and allergies, or the risk of developing type 1 or 2 diabetes, or high blood cholesterol, in addition to facilitating the digestive process.
Baby Formula
Medical providers recognize that not all women are the same and people's lives differ; depending on your circumstances, certain factors may lead to choosing formula over breastfeeding. Sometimes, you can combine between breastfeeding and baby formula. Some women are unable to breastfeed due to some medical reasons, such as illnesses, medications, etc. It can be a matter of lifestyle and personal preferences and some women may not be able to produce enough milk. All of these factors are understandable obstacles to breastfeeding.
Formula milk also has its advantages; it is sometimes more convenient and flexible, and it increases the involvement of both parents in feeding the baby. As for the mother, there is no need to worry about what she eats; breastfeeding mothers may have to avoid certain foods or medications that can be passed on to the baby through the milk.
In fact, commercial formulas do not contain the antibodies needed to boost immunity and fight infection. Moreover, breast milk is easier to digest than baby formula; formula-fed babies may experience more intestinal cramps and gases than breastfed babies.
It is Your Choice
The decision regarding how to feed your baby depends on your own choice; even if it is not a suitable option, do not feed your baby any negative feelings. Instead, try to trust in your ability to provide the essential care and nutrition for your baby; if necessary, you can get the advice of your health provider.
Social and family pressures can also affect the mother's decision regarding how to feed her child, but the most important thing is that the mother listens to her personal needs and individual circumstances. Her decision should be based on what is best for her and her child. Here comes the importance of seeking reliable information and consulting health professionals, as this can help in making the right the decision.
References
whmcenter.com
americanpregnancy.org
Mayoclinic.org
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