The idea originally surfaced from old studies suggesting long-term damage to the bonding relationship if a child was not held or breastfed within the first few hours of life. In fact, there are plenty of times for mothers and fathers to bond with formula-fed babies. Parents just need to get topless.
There are differences between breast milk and baby formula, but they have little to do with a child getting the appropriate amount of nutrition. The protein, energy, vitamins, and mineral content of baby formula has been closely regulated since the s. Any baby formula sold is required to meet the same nutritional requirements to meet the needs of growing babies. The increased risk of communicable diseases, allergies, or other medical conditions is small enough that baby formula is far from dangerous.
This myth is a tricky one. It turns out that parents who formula feed might be overfeeding. Sure, But much of that concern can be mitigated by careful feeding practices on the part of a parent and the watchful eye of a pediatrician.
There are times when formula feeding is important. Sometimes a mother is simply unable to produce enough breast milk for an infant. However, some factors might lead you to consider formula-feeding. Here, Jay L. Hoecker, M. The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends exclusive breast-feeding for the first six months after birth — and then breast-feeding in combination with solid foods until at least age 1. Extended breast-feeding is recommended as long as you and your baby wish to continue.
Breast milk contains the right balance of nutrients for your baby and boosts your baby's immune system. It's considered the gold standard for infant nutrition.
Ask your baby's doctor about vitamin D supplements for the baby, especially if you're exclusively breast-feeding. Breast milk might not provide enough vitamin D, which helps your baby absorb calcium and phosphorus — nutrients necessary for strong bones. Taking care of yourself can go a long way toward promoting successful breast-feeding. Eat a healthy diet, drink plenty of fluids and rest as much as possible.
To boost your confidence, learn as much as you can about breast-feeding. Keep the environment calm and relaxed. Look to your partner and other loved ones for support. Don't be afraid to ask for help. Friends who've successfully breast-fed might be a good source of information.
Lactation consultants are available at many hospitals and clinics. Your or your baby's health care provider might be able to help, too. If your baby has trouble latching on to the breast or if you and your family have a preference for bottle-feeding, you can exclusively bottle-feed your baby breast milk.
Pump as often as you would feed your baby from the breast. Using a double electric breast pump can help you collect more milk in less time. If you're having trouble making enough milk or if you can't give your baby your breast milk for a medical reason, you can turn to a human milk bank and feed your baby pasteurized donor milk from a bottle. If you're struggling, ask a lactation consultant or your baby's doctor for help. If your baby's doctor is concerned that your baby isn't receiving adequate nutrition or hydration, he or she might suggest pumping and supplementing with expressed breast milk or formula.
Breast milk is the ideal food for babies — and the best way to keep a baby healthy — but proper nutrition and hydration are absolutely essential for your baby. Commercial infant formulas don't contain the immunity-boosting elements of breast milk that only your body can provide to your baby. For most babies, breast milk is also easier to digest than formula.
When prepared as directed, however, infant formula supports healthy babies who have typical dietary needs. A baby who has special nutritional needs might require a special formula. Exclusive breast-feeding is recommended for the first six months after birth. Throw away any formula that has been warmed but not finished within one hour. Formula and bottles become contaminated once the baby has had a feed from them.
Always make up formula according to the instructions on the tin. If the formula is made too weak, it can cause poor growth and the baby will be hungry. If it is too strong it can lead to constipation and the baby becoming overweight. Mix the two just before feeding. Never warm formula in a microwave. This can cause the milk to heat unevenly and lead to burns. Instead, warm up each bottle in a jug of hot water.
Learn more here about the development and quality assurance of healthdirect content. Baby formula is the only safe alternative to breastmilk for the first 12 months. Read more. Read more on raisingchildren. Read more on Ngala website. Get reliable information and tips on bottle-feeding newborn babies with articles on preparing formula, giving bottles, cleaning bottles and supplementing. Mixed feeding, or supplementing with formula, might help.
Start by talking with your midwife, nurse or GP. Below are some links to documents which provide you with information which is unbiased, accurate and free from commercial interests about how to minimise the risks to your baby when you sterilise equipment and prepare and give formula. Read more on Australian Breastfeeding Association website. Bottle-feeding your baby? Find out what equipment you need — bottles, teats, rings and caps — plus how to clean and sterilise it all.
Read more on Karitane website. By the time your baby is about 6 months of age, breast milk or formula will no longer provide all the nutrition they need for healthy growth. Pregnancy, Birth and Baby is not responsible for the content and advertising on the external website you are now entering. Video call. This information is for your general information and use only and is not intended to be used as medical advice and should not be used to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any medical condition, nor should it be used for therapeutic purposes.
The information is not a substitute for independent professional advice and should not be used as an alternative to professional health care. If you have a particular medical problem, please consult a healthcare professional.
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