Breastfeeding Versus Formula: Which Is Best For Your Baby?

The Negative Side Effects Of Breastfeeding

Although breast appears to be the best option for the baby's health as well as the mother's, it can come with multiple challenges. To start, a new mother can feel discomfort, particularly during the first few feedings, which can greatly discourage a new mom from pursuing breastfeeding further. Another negative aspect of breastfeeding is there is no sure way to measure how much the baby is eating and if they are getting enough. The mother also needs to be aware of and monitor their medication use, caffeine and alcohol intake, as some things that go into the mother's body, such as what they eat or drink, can be passed to the baby through her milk. Newborns also eat quite frequently and sticking to a feeding schedule can be challenging if a new mom returns to work, needs to run errands, has chores, or has other lifestyle choices that may take up her time. Also, the infant may have difficulty latching onto the nipple and could have a sensitive stomach and be allergic to their mother's milk.

Next, learn about the other choice new moms have when it comes to feeding their newborn: formula.

Formula: A Great Alternative

In some cases, a new mom might have a difficult time breastfeeding for various reasons, and bottle-feeding is a great option for a new mother. Bottle-feeding can be either feeding the infant breast milk from a bottle or using formula instead. For these reasons, formula can be integrated and used as the baby's main source of nourishment and is a healthy alternative to breastmilk. Although manufactured and regulated by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), infant formula contains an incredible amount of nutrients a growing baby needs.

Benefits of baby formula include another person can feed the baby and feedings do not rely solely on the mother being present, other family members get the chance to bond with the baby during feeding time, the amount the baby is consuming can be measured and monitored, and mothers using formula do not need to worry about how their diet will affect the baby. Also, if the baby has a milk allergy, a soy-based formula can be supplemented and a healthy alternative if the child is allergic to their mother's milk. With the advancement in formula, many formulas available on the market can match the nutrients of human milk and can offer some protection for newborns against infections within the first year. New moms should also know a happy, stress-free mom is best, and if the mom believes formula is the best option for her and her child, then she should pursue it.

Although a great alternative for baby and mama, infant formula does have some negative side effects compared to breast milk. Continue reading to find out now!