Breastmilk vs. Formula

Bringing a child into the world is an amazing! A hard decision after giving birth is determining whether or not to breastfeed your newborn or put them straight onto formula. Many people have their own perspective regarding which route to take both discussing the advantages and disadvantages. Many people believe that the decision you make will affect the psychological attraction the baby would have to the mother as well as the health of the baby as they grow older.

Before we continue for new mothers there are a couple myths that need to be expelled from your minds, you can breastfeed and use formula. Nipple confusion is a non-issue if you alternate.

Health organizations have released statements that recommend breastfeeding is the better choice for babies. Breastfeeding helps the baby fight infections, prevent allergies, protects it from a number of chronic diseases and it brings the baby closer to its mother. Breastfeeding provides natural antibodies, helps them resist ear infections and leaves them less constipated and gassy. It is also good for the mother because they are less likely to get breast cancer, diabetes, heart disease and osteoporosis.  There are no cons to breastfeeding but unfortunately not all women are able to produce breast milk to nourish their baby and some have issues with baby latching on.

There is a bad stigma surrounding feeding your newborn baby formula, a lot of people believe that it’s not natural enough, and some women don’t trust formulas to provide enough nutrition as their own breast milk could. But what a lot of new moms don’t understand that formula feeding is the next best thing after breastfeeding and this alternative would nourish your baby as they need. The convenience of formula feeding is a positive because they can be fed any time by anyone. It is so flexible, because you don’t have to fit pumping into your schedule.  Unfortunately there are some complexities due to the lack of antibodies in breast milk which can raise a red flag for new mothers. However formulas are becoming more and more advanced and sooner or later they may be able to replicate or closely do so. Another con is the expense of a formula. Powdered formula is the least expensive followed by concentrated.

As a new mom, take into consideration the pros and cons and always take medical advice from your doctor or lactation consultant. They have your best interest in mind and will provide you with extensive information and so you can select which method you wish to pursue.