I am considering offering some formula. Is it really much different than breast milk?
While formula is a safe alternative to breastfeeding, it is best to think of formula as a medical tool to be used only if needed. Formula does not provide all the benefits that breast milk can. Some babies have a reaction to an ingredient in formula, which can stress their digestive system. They may need to try different formulas to find one that works for them. Babies who drink formula may have more illnesses, infections, and digestive issues. They may also have a higher risk of SIDS (Sudden Infant Death Syndrome), diabetes, and obesity.
Breast milk is a living superfood tailored specifically to your baby. It changes as baby grows to meet their growing needs. Breast milk contains thousands of different substances. Scientists continue studying it and are discovering new ingredients, learning about what they do for breastfed babies. In 2007, stem cells were discovered in breast milk! Stem cells play a role in infant development. Dr. Kakulas, an Australian scientist who studied stem cells in breast milk, stated, “You’re literally giving your baby living cells to nurture her brain, liver, immune system, and all other sorts of body systems and parts.”
Hundreds of the components in breast milk are tailored to protect a baby from disease-causing germs that are present in their specific environment. The fat in breast milk is important for the growth of baby’s brain. Breast milk also promotes a healthy digestive system.
Digging Deeper Into Breast Milk Make-Up
Water
Breast milk contains a lot of water, which is why breastfed babies don’t need extra water before 6 months of age. The water also helps regulate baby’s temperature, keeps their joints and organs working well, and helps nutrients travel through their body.
Protein
Over 400 different proteins are found in breast milk! The amount and type of protein are perfect for baby’s brain development. These proteins help their body absorb other nutrients, strengthen their immune system, and change as they age to match their growing needs.
Fats
Breast milk is about 3.5-4.5 percent fat, which is a very important component of breast milk. There are over 200 types of fatty acids in breast milk, including DHA and ARA which are essential for brain development and vision. Fats provide energy, help with the development of the central nervous system and brain, and play a big role in the overall growth of babies. The fat content in breast milk varies from mother to mother based on what her baby needs. It also changes during breastfeeding sessions, throughout the day, and as the baby grows.
Carbohydrates
Seven percent of breast milk consists of carbohydrates. Carbohydrates are important for brain development and help maintain a healthy gut. They also assist in absorbing minerals and fight diseases by promoting the growth of healthy bacteria.
Vitamins & Minerals
Babies can easily absorb the vitamins and minerals found in breast milk and it is chalk-full of them. A mother’s diet can influence the amounts of these nutrients in her breast milk. However, because babies take the best from their moms, a less-than-ideal diet doesn’t impact baby as much as it impacts mom. Babies receive highly nutritious breast milk, leaving mom with what’s “left over.” Most mothers have low levels of vitamin D, mainly because of a lack of sunlight. This results in breast milk having less vitamin D. Talk to your doctor about a supplement for you or your baby.
Probiotics & Prebiotics
Probiotics are beneficial live bacteria and yeasts that support the digestive system. Prebiotics are a type of fiber that feeds these good bacteria in the gut. These components of breast milk work together to keep baby’s gut healthy. They also help babies develop a strong immune system.
Complex Sugars
Breast milk has about 200 complex sugars. These sugars prevent bacteria from sticking to the walls of the intestines, which helps reduce the chances of diarrhea and respiratory infections. They are especially effective against bacteria that can cause pneumonia and sepsis (a serious condition where the body reacts incorrectly to an infection). Like other components of breast milk, these sugars are made by each mother based on her baby’s individual needs.
White Blood Cells & Antibodies
Breast milk contains a very high number of white blood cells, which help fight off viruses, bacteria, and other harmful substances that can enter a baby’s body. When bacteria or viruses are present, these white blood cells produce antibodies. A mom creates antibodies when her baby is exposed to an illness. When baby’s saliva enters the breast (through direct nursing), it triggers mom to make more antibodies to help baby fight the illness. A baby’s immune system is not fully developed until they are between three to six years old, so breast milk protects babies while their immune systems are still maturing.
When a mom is exposed to an illness, her body produces antibodies that are passed to her baby, reducing baby’s chances of getting sick, even when they have been exposed to the illness by being close to their mom.
Click here for some mind-blowing breast milk benefits.
But wait… there are more ways in which formula cannot compete with breast milk!
Bonding Through Breastfeeding
Moms and babies “communicate” with each other through breastfeeding. Oxytocin (the love hormone) is released while breastfeeding, which creates feelings of well-being and relaxation. Breastfeeding while skin-to-skin with baby is especially good for bonding and milk supply.
Changing Flavors
Breast milk tastes different depending on what mom eats, exposing baby to multiple flavors. Because of this, breastfed babies tend to be less picky eaters once solids are introduced.
Long-Term Breastfeeding Benefits
While formula is not needed after 1 year of age, breast milk remains very beneficial for older babies. It increases in calories, becoming more fat and nutrient dense as baby ages. This causes them to need to nurse less frequently as breast milk becomes more calorie-packed.
SOURCE: http://www.schsa.org/PublicHealth/pdf/wic/formula-risks-brochure-eng.pdf