Before a baby is born, parents usually have decided on a feeding plan for the baby. Breastfeeding or formula-feeding the baby is a big decision for new parents.
According to medical experts, breastfeeding still provides the best nutrition for the baby. But for some new mothers, breastfeeding might not be a possible option due to medical conditions, lifestyle, or other vital factors that new parents should consider.
Breastfeeding Benefits
Aside from getting the best nourishment, a baby can get the mother’s best bonding experience through breastfeeding. It is recommended that an infant breastfeeds exclusively for the first six months after birth. The baby can breastfeed and have solid food until one year and continue to breastfeed until both baby and mother are still willing.
Right Balance of Nutrients
Breast milk has the right amounts of vitamins and minerals that an infant needs to grow except for vitamin D. When breastfeeding exclusively, ask the doctor about vitamin D supplements for the baby to help develop strong bones. Breastfed babies have no problems digesting breast milk, so there are fewer cases of either diarrhea or constipation.
Fights Infections and Strengthens Immune System
Breastfeeding mothers pass antibodies that fight infections to the baby during breastfeeding. These antibodies help strengthen the immune system of the infants, making them less prone to infection.
Promotes Release of Oxytocin
Breastfeeding releases the bond-supporting hormone in mom called oxytocin after giving birth. This hormone helps with the milk flow from the breasts and promotes bonding and mothering behaviors, which causes calmness and affection.
Formula-feeding Benefits
Infant formulas are the next best thing to breastmilk. Commercial infant formulas also provide vitamins and minerals that an infant requires. It is important to note that your infant formula contains the right nutrients. HiPP Baby formulas meet US nutritional guidelines. Formula-feeding for infants can also bring in some benefits.
Infants get the needed vitamin D.
Infant formulas can provide the proper amount of vitamin D, which breastmilk does not have enough of. The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has the standards on the essential nutrients that should be found in infant formula, including vitamin D. It is still challenging to replicate breastmilk composition as it has the unique substance made by a mother to an infant.
A good alternative for mothers who have medical conditions.
When mothers have medical situations requiring prescription drugs, medical experts recommend infant formula as an alternative to feed the baby. Formula-feeding prevents the medicines that the mother takes from being passed to the infant, which may pose a risk to the newborn’s health.
Feeding option for babies with mothers who had breast surgery.
Mothers who endured breast surgeries before childbearing may have difficulty producing breast milk as their milk ducts may have been cut during the procedure. If milk supply is not enough to feed the baby, an infant formula may serve as a good supplement.
Deciding on how to feed your infant may be daunting, as there are so many factors you must consider. But everything will come into place once the baby is born and shows indications of how it is best fed and nurtured. It is essential to know beforehand what will best benefit you and your child in the long run.