Essay about Feeding formula to babies versus Breastfeeding

There are many misconceptions today about feeding formula to babies and it being equal to breastfeeding. Breast milk is complex and species-specific; it targets growth and development of infants and provides disease protection. Both breast milk and formulas contain similar nutrients, but formulas are not an exact copy of breast milk. Formula may maintain growth and development, but it doesn’t contain hormones, live cells, immunologic agents, or enzymes, all of which are contained in breast milk. Breast milk contains four-hundred nutrients that cannot be recreated in a laboratory. Formula compositions don’t change to meet the infant’s changing needs. Although many formulas are similar to breast milk, they have drastic differences in†¦show more content†¦It also ensures that the mother takes frequent breaks in her day, especially at first. Most importantly, it helps create a bond between mother and baby. The distance between the baby and mother, when the baby is feeding, is the perfect distance for the newborn’s eyes to focus. There is a skin-to-skin and eye-to-eye contact, and the oppurtunity to cuddle and bond. In December 1997 the American Academy of Pediatrics issued its most aggressive statement to due urging mothers to breastfeed for at least a year and beyond â€Å"for as long as mutually desired.† Mother’s milk alone provides all the nutrients necessary for a baby’s physical and mental development for at least at least six months, with the added benefit of natural immunity against numerous diseases. In Milk, Money and Madness: The Culture and Politics of Breastfeeding, Naomi Baumslag, MD, MPD, asserts that â€Å"breastfed babies also have lower incidence of allergies, urinary tract infections, obesity, learning, behavioral and psychological problems, later-life heart disease, pneumonia, neonatal sepis, and giardiaShow MoreRelatedThe Health Organization And The American Academy Of Pediatrics Recommend Exclusive Breastfeeding1531 Words   |  7 PagesThat being said, babies are born to be breastfed. Breast milk is the most natural and necessary food for infants. T he World Health Organization and the American Academy of Pediatrics recommend exclusive breastfeeding for the first six months of life. When faced with the decision of whether or not to breastfeed their child, some women tend to choose the â€Å"easier† path. 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Our findings are in agreement with the Cochrane review studies that were conducted for the effects of early skin to skin contact (SSC) from randomizedRead MoreBreast Feeding Versus Bottle Feeding886 Words   |  4 PagesBreast Feeding Versus Bottle Feeding There are many different myths and opinions about breast-feeding and how it is beneficial for a child, some women and even men choose to view the breast as a sexual object, although in reality it is meant for the purpose of nourishing an infant. As for the other half of women around the world, many believe breast-feeding is the most natural way to feed a child as they receive the vitamins and minerals a youngster needs to grow up strong. Breast-Feeding and BottleRead MoreInfant Formul Just As Healthy1873 Words   |  8 PagesInfant formula: Just As Healthy Have you ever wondered what you should feed your newborn? Breast milk or infant formula? Or have you ever considered why so many mothers prefer to breastfeed versus bottled formula? If so, you may find your answers to your questions here. What is breast milk you say? Breast milk is simply defined as the milk produced from the breast of a female that is intended for newborn babies. You ask what is infant formula? Infant formula is considered to be a manufactured foodRead MoreWhy Breastfeeding Is The Best Choice For Mom And Baby938 Words   |  4 PagesThey pick up new healthier eating habits and baby proof the house. Buy the safest crib and car seats. Read all the reviews on which diapers are best quality. All because they want the best for their precious little bundle of joy. How they choose to feed the baby is no different. While breastfeeding can be time consuming; the minimal cost, ease of convenience and added health benefits are why breastfeeding is the best choice for mom and baby. Breastfeeding not only requires very little financial commitRead MoreInfant Nutrition: What is best for your baby - breast milk or formula?1795 Words   |  8 Pages Though your baby is not here yet, you already know that you want the best for your baby - the best opportunities, the best schools and the best education. Simply, you want your baby to have the best in life. The first and most important decision that you will make for your baby is whether to feed your baby breast milk or formula. Many women today are opting for formula, but what is the best choice? There are advantages and disadvantages to both breastfeeding and formula feeding. You need to