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Breast-feeding vs. formula-feeding: What's best?
The benefits of breast-feeding are well established. Consider ways to support breast-feeding — and how to handle feelings of guilt if you can't or decide not to breast-feed.
By Mayo Clinic staff
Breast-feeding is the optimal way to feed a newborn. Depending on the circumstances, however, various factors may lead you to consider formula-feeding. Here, Jay Hoecker, M.D., an emeritus pediatrics specialist at Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minn., answers important questions about breast-feeding and formula-feeding.
How long are mothers encouraged to breast-feed?
Breast-feeding until your baby is age 1 is recommended. Breast milk contains the right balance of nutrients for your baby and boosts your baby's immune system. Breast-feeding is also the most convenient and least expensive way to feed your baby. Breast-feeding after age 1 continues to support your baby's growth and development.
Is any additional nutrition necessary?
If you're exclusively or partially feeding your infant breast milk, consult your baby's doctor about vitamin D supplements for your baby. Breast milk may not provide enough vitamin D, which is essential to help your baby absorb calcium and phosphorus — nutrients necessary for strong bones.
What factors promote successful breast-feeding?
Taking care of yourself can go a long way toward promoting successful breast-feeding. Eat healthy foods, 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 may be a good source of information. Lactation consultants are available at many hospitals and clinics. Your baby's doctor can help, too.
Next page(1 of 2)
- American Academy of Pediatrics. Breastfeeding and the use of human milk. Pediatrics. 2005;115:496.
- Benefits of breastfeeding. The National Women's Health Information Center. http://www.womenshealth.gov/breastfeeding/benefits/. Accessed Feb. 15, 2010.
- Kovacs C. Vitamin D in pregnancy and lactation: Maternal, fetal and neonatal outcomes from human and animal studies. The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition. 2008;88:520S.
- Ward LM, et al. Vitamin D-deficiency rickets among children in Canada. Canadian Medical Association Journal. 2007;177:161.
- Gordon CM, et al. Prevalence of vitamin D deficiency among healthy infants and toddlers. Archives of Pediatrics and Adolescent Medicine. 2008;162:505.
- Wagner CL, et al. Prevention of rickets and vitamin D deficiency in infants, children, and adolescents. American Academy of Pediatrics. Pediatrics. 2008;122:1143.
- Breastfeeding your baby. American Congress of Obstetricians and Gynecologists. http://www.acog.org/publications/patient_education/bp029.cfm. Accessed Feb. 15, 2010.
- Heird WC. The feeding of infants and children. In: Kliegman RM, et al. Nelson Textbook of Pediatrics. 18th ed. Philadelphia, Pa.: Saunders Elsevier; 2007. http://www.mdconsult.com/das/book/body/184081895-2/0/1608/114.html?tocnode=54475504&fromURL=114.html#4-u1.0-B978-1-4160-2450-7..50044-X_767. Accessed Feb. 17, 2010.
- Schanler RJ, et al. Breastfeeding: Parental education and support. http://www.uptodate.com/home/index.html. Accessed Feb. 17, 2010.
- LaFleur EA (expert opinion). Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minn. March 9, 2010.
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