What Are The Differences Between Formula And Breast Milk?

When planning for a baby the question of the bottle or breast will eventually arise. What are the differences between formula and breast milk, and is one more beneficial for my baby?

Most formulas on the market today are manufactured from cow’s milk. Milk from the mother and milk from a cow both contain two components; curds and whey. Curds are white and rubbery clumps that are found in milk, and whey is essentially, the liquid. When a baby consumes a product made from cow’s milk, there is generally more curd present than in the mother’s breast milk. Because of this, breast milk is easier to digest than cow’s milk and helps to prevent spit ups and gassiness.

Breast milk changes as the baby grows. Formula stays the same. Although formula may seem to be rich in nutrients, it may not be better for your child. Breast milk is specially formulated to meet the needs of your child as they change.

Breast milk contains a number of ingredients that can’t be duplicated by formulas. As stated before, the components in breast milk are more easily digested by babies, but this is not the only difference. Breast milk contains higher carbohydrate and lactose counts than cow’s milk. Lactose has been directly associated with larger and faster brain development. The minerals found in breast milk may not be as high as those found in formulas, but the minerals produced by the mother are completely absorbed by the child. When the minerals, such as iron, are not absorbed by the baby they can change the balance of bacteria in the stomach which allows harmful bacteria to grow.

The formula industry is continuing to grow and evolve. It is certainly better today than it was twenty years ago, however, studies show that breast milk is still the most beneficial for babies, especially newborns and infants.

Posted in Baby and Toddler, Breastfeeding