Breastfeeding and formula feeding are two choices for providing nourishment to a baby. Breastfeeding involves the baby sucking and swallowing milk from the mother’s breast, with human breast milk being considered the healthiest option. It is recommended that babies be breastfed exclusively for the first six months of their lives, with no supplemental foods or formula. Formula feeding, on the other hand, involves feeding the baby with prepared milk rather than breast milk, and is usually necessary when the mother cannot produce enough milk or is on medication that could pass through the milk to the baby.
Key Takeaways
- Breast milk is natural and provides the baby with a balanced combination of nutrients, while formula milk is a custom-made product designed to simulate breast milk.
- Breastfeeding allows for the transfer of antibodies from the mother to the baby, boosting their immune system and protecting them against diseases, whereas formula feeding does not offer this benefit.
- Compared to formula milk, breast milk is easier for the baby to digest due to its higher whey content and softer curds, resulting in the baby feeling hungrier more often.
