Breastfeeding or Bottlefeeding?

Oh, where do I start!  The benefits of breastfeeding are practically countless.  There are benefits to baby and mom, as well as, to society.  Babies who are breastfed grow just as they are supposed to since the breastmilk has the perfect combination of fat, sugar, protein, and water.  It also gives the newborn much needed antibodies that help protect it from bacteria and viruses.  These same antibodies also protect it from developing other infectious diseases and greatly cuts down on infant hospitalizations.  Breastfed babies also score slightly higher on IQ tests when compared to their formula fed counterparts.  They also have less incidence of SIDS. Studies have proven that when an infant is breastfed, that as an adult, it is less likely to develop diabetes, lymphoma, leukemia, be overweight or obese, or have high cholesterol or asthma.   Breastmilk is tolerated and digested better than formula, its always the right temperature, and it is the most natural and complete food available.  Formula is a good second, but it will never be able to match the perfection of the real thing!

For the mother, producing breastmilk requires extra calories, therefore using the calories for milk production instead of fat storage which helps get some of the pregnancy weight gain off.  It also helps the uterus get back to its original size faster, while cutting down on excess bleeding.  It decreases the risk of ovarian and breast cancers, and it may decrease the incidence of hip fractures and osteoporosis after menopause.  It is convenient, sanitary, and FREE!  Immediate gratification for the infant anywhere you are, no measuring formula, cleaning dirty bottles and nipples, or making sure everything is sanitary; and best of all it’s free.  No running out of formula in the middle of the night, or worrying about the temperature being just right.  It also creates a bond between mom and baby that cannot be explained.  I personally breastfed all three of my kids for the first year, and I wouldn’t trade it for the world!

 From a societal standpoint, breastfeeding lowers healthcare costs and workplace absenteeism (since there is less sick visits and hospitalization for the infant), which increases workplace productivity.  It also creates less trash and plastic waste from formula cans, bottles, nipples, and other supplies needed to make formula, so it is much better for the environment.  It promotes family bonding and shows a commitment of dedication from mom to baby saying, “I’m doing everything I can to give you the best start possible!” 

Julie Riggs MED RD LD

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