Breast-feeding vs. formula-feeding: What’s best?

by Dr Gandhali Deorukhkar Pillai, Consultant Obstetrics Gynecologist, Wockhardt Hospital Mumbai Central

The benefits of breast-feeding are well established. Breastfeeding protects your baby from ear infections, diarrhoea, pneumonia and other childhood diseases.

Breast-feeding is the recommended way to feed a new-born. Depending on the circumstances, however, various factors might lead you to consider formula-feeding.

How long should I breast-feed my baby?

The American Academy of Paediatrics recommends exclusive breast-feeding for the first six months after birth — and 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.

Is any additional nutrition necessary?

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. The ‘first milk’ – or colostrum – is rich in antibodies and gives new-borns an immunity boost while their own immune systems are still developing.

What can I do to promote successful breast-feeding?

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 baby’s doctor might be able to help, too.

What if breast-feeding isn’t going well?

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.

Does infant formula pose any risks to a baby?

Commercial infant formulas don’t contain the immunity-boosting elements of breast milk. 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.  Breastfeeding protects the mother from diabetes, breast and ovarian cancers, heart disease and postpartum depression.

Can I combine breast-feeding and formula-feeding?

Exclusive breast-feeding is recommended for the first six months after birth. A diet of breast milk only provides the best nutrition. Formula supplementation can disrupt breast-feeding as well as affect milk supply. However, some mothers are able to combine breast-feeding and formula-feeding — especially after breast-feeding has been well-established.