When it comes to picking between breastfeeding vs. formula feeding your baby (or exerting both), how do you distinguish what's real and what's not? Check out the following general misunderstandings about breastfeeding and formula feeding.
And also, talk to your doctor about your opinions and concerns. Lastly, it's not about breastmilk vs. formula; it's about what's most suitable for the people involved. With the help of an open discussion, the two of you will get the best thing to do for your baby. And that's all that matters.
Breastfeeding and Formula-Feeding Myths
- Don't mix feeding: breast or bottle feed.
- Bottles increase nipple confusion.
- Formula milk reduces breast milk.
- Breastfed babies are more intelligent.
- Formula-feeding is less healthy.
- You can't form a bond with bottle feeding.
Myth 1: You can't do both breastfeed and use formula.
While some may limit the discussion as though it's a matter of breastmilk versus formula milk, breastfeeding versus formula feeding, it doesn't have to be an each-of-two decision. Many parents feed their babies a mixture of both at some time through their baby's first few months. But actually, some studies recommend a combination of the two helps moms breastfeed longer.
Myth 2: Nipple confusion creates breastfeeding difficulties.
Nipple confusion can sometimes be a nipple choice. Try with various nipple styles to find the ones that work best for your infant.
Myth 3: Your breast milk supply will reduce if you use formula milk.
The more breast milk your baby drinks, the more milk your body generates. But combining some formula milk to your baby's diet after your milk supply is produced won't make your milk disappear. Instead, your milk production changes accordingly.
Myth 4: Formula-fed babies aren't as intelligent or strong as breastfed babies.
Mead Johnson admits that breast milk has advantages that infant formula doesn't yet replicate. But, some formula brands which have prebiotics to boost the immune system and the fatty acids DHA and ARA for eye and brain development, are essential to your baby's health and development.
Myth 5: Formula milk lacks full nutrition.
Today's formula milk is closer to breast milk than ever before. Many brands provide nutrients that breastfed babies may need to take from supplements, such as vitamin D. Formula milk has the essential omega-3 fatty acid DHA like breast milk.
Myth 6: Formula feeding weakens bonding with your baby.
Your baby doesn't know how she's being fed, only that she's being carried, loved, and nourished. So, if formula feeding reduces your stress, that's a huge plus for you and your baby.
As you can notice, there's no need to argue breastfeeding versus formula feeding. By separating the traditional myths from fact, you can, along with the knowledge of your doctor, make a knowledgeable decision along what the most suitable choice is for you and your baby.
