Breastfeeding vs Formula Feeding

 Breastfeeding vs Formula Feeding

Should you breastfeed your newborn? As a new mom you have to decide for your newborns nutrition to breastfeed or to use formula. Here’s what you should know about breastfeeding and feeding your newborns formula. 

By Momlifestylenews

September 30 2021

Breastfeeding 

Breastfeeding provides the best nutrition for infants and is widely recommended for new moms. You should breastfeed for the first 6 months after birth and I encourage all moms to continue to breastfeed (as long as you and your baby are willing) in combination with solid foods until the baby is one year old.

Breast milk contains the proper proportion of nutrients that your baby needs.(protein, carbs, fat, etc) It also is more easily digested than formula making your baby less gassy. Studies show breastfed babies have higher levels of cognitive function and may even help your child in later years by reducing the risk of being overweight, developing asthma, allergies, diabetes, and many other diseases. 

To promote successful breastfeeding you should eat a well balanced diet and drink plenty of fluids. Also research as much as you can about breastfeeding. You should keep the environment calm and relaxed. Ask your family for help and consult your baby’s health care provider too. 

If your baby is having trouble latching try pumping. Also try offering both breasts at every feeding. This provides stimulation to both breasts at least every two to three hours. This will also increase your chance of making more breast milk. Breastfeed your baby or pump the breast milk from your breasts at least 8 to 12 times a day. 

Breastfeeding is good for moms, too. You can reduce risk of breast cancer, diabetes, heart disease, and other diseases. It can help you lose your baby weight more easily and make it less likely you’ll have postpartum depression. 

Formula Feeding 

If you use a formula, your baby will get the best possible alternative to breast milk. (The passive immunity and oxytocin controlled bonding that comes into play with breastfeeding cannot be replaced with a bottle or formula) It’s not recommended you make your own or use any other kind of milk.(cow etc) Your baby may not tolerate formula very well causing diarrhea. 

Formula is convenient and flexible and can be fed by anyone at anytime. It also isn’t digested as quickly as breast milk, so babies don’t need to eat as often. You don’t have to worry about what you eat. Moms who breastfeed have to avoid certain foods that their baby can’t tolerate, also not drinking alcoholic beverages because they pass on tiny amounts of it to their baby. 

Formula can range from $50 to $200 per month depending on the brand and there are possible recalls on baby formula. Something important to note is that we do not fully know all of the ingredients of breast milk or fully understand all the changes it goes through as the baby grows. This means that formula companies can never accurately mimic the contents of breast milk. 

If you’re considering formula feeding, learn more about formula and do your research so that you can make an informed decision. As a new mom I want to breastfeed for the natural and safe benefits but I know it maybe a challenge. Comment below what your thoughts are on breastfeeding vs formula feeding. Let me know what you would want to discuss next and stay tuned for more mom news.