Knowledge Builders

which is better bottle feeding or breastfeeding

by Tania Grady Jr. Published 2 years ago Updated 2 years ago
image

Health experts agree that breastfeeding is the healthiest option for both mom and baby. They recommend that babies feed only on breast milk for the first 6 months, and then continue to have breast milk as a main part of their diet until they are at least 1to 2 years old.

Full Answer

What is the difference between bottle feeding and breastfeeding?

What is the difference between breast feeding and bottle feeding?

  • Being a New Mom. Some women are able to breastfeed, others try but cannot do so for a variety of reasons. ...
  • Breastfeeding Benefits. The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recommends breast-feeding exclusively for about six months, then continuing to breast-feed as part of a mixed diet until at least 12 months.
  • Breastfeeding Cons. ...
  • Bottle Feeding Pros. ...

What is the best bottle to use while breastfeeding?

The best bottles for breastfed babies 2021

  1. Calma by Medela. “One of the hardest things about bottle nipples is that there isn’t a lot of research,” says Spatz. ...
  2. Dr. Brown’s Options+ Wide-Neck Baby Bottle. ...
  3. Tommee Tippee Closer to Nature Bottle. ...
  4. Philips Avent Natural Baby Bottle. ...
  5. Lansinoh mOmma Bottle. ...
  6. Nuk Simply Natural Glass Baby Bottle. ...
  7. Comotomo Natural Feel Baby Bottle. ...

More items...

What are the pros and cons of breastfeeding?

What are the pros and cons of breastfeeding? Research also shows that very early skin-to-skin contact and suckling may have physical and emotional benefits. 2 Other studies suggest that breastfeeding may reduce the risk for certain allergic diseases, asthma, obesity, and type 2 diabetes. It also may help improve an infant’s cognitive development.

Why breastfeeding is better than Formula?

Why is breastmilk better than formula? If you are wondering why breastmilk is better than formula, here are 15 reasons to consider! 1 Breastfeeding creates a stronger bond between the baby and the mother. Mothers who choose to breastfeed their babies develop a stronger bond with them due to the so-called “ skin-to-skin ” contact.

image

Is breastfeeding better than breast milk in a bottle?

Only breastfeeding for at least the first 6 months of life is best for your baby. This is called "exclusive" breastfeeding. Breastmilk can be expressed and fed to your baby in a bottle, as needed. You should not give your baby water, sugar water, formula, or solids during his or her first 6 months.

What are the disadvantages of bottle-feeding?

Bottle-Feeding: Disadvantages for BabiesFeeding frequency. Babies who take infant formula usually want to feed less often than babies who are breastfeeding.Bowel movements. Infant formula causes formed, brown stools that have a noticeable odor. Breast milk causes loose, yellow stools that have less odor.

Why do doctors not recommend bottle-feeding?

The risk of infection is high as microorganisms may stick on the neck and teat of the bottle and transmit to the infant with reuse of the bottle. Diarrhoea in HIV infected, malnourished and underweight infants can prove life-threatening and is a reason why bottle feeds should be discouraged in such cases.

What are 3 disadvantages of breastfeeding?

There can be discomfort involved with breastfeeding. ... You may leak milk at times that are inconvenient or embarrassing. ... Feeding your baby in public may be more difficult. ... Everything you consume is being passed on to your baby. ... You need special clothing and bras for breastfeeding.More items...

What are 4 disadvantages of breastfeeding?

You may have to deal with some of the uncomfortable or even painful problems common with breastfeeding. These include things like mastitis, breast engorgement, blisters, plugged milk ducts, and sore nipples.

Are bottle fed babies less healthy?

Breastfed babies have fewer infections and hospitalizations than formula-fed infants. During breastfeeding, antibodies and other germ-fighting factors pass from a mother to her baby and strengthen the immune system. This helps lower a baby's chances of getting many infections, including: ear infections.

Are bottle fed babies healthy?

Formula feeding is also a healthy choice for babies. If you use a formula, your baby will get the best possible alternative to breast milk. (You should not attempt to make your own formula or feed an infant cow's milk or another kind of milk.)

What are the 10 disadvantages of breastfeeding?

Cons of breastfeedingAdjustment period and pain. The early weeks of breastfeeding are often the most difficult. ... The benefits may be exaggerated. The benefits of breastfeeding, especially the cognitive benefits, may be exaggerated. ... Loss of bodily autonomy. ... Lack of social support. ... Uneven distribution of parenting work.

Hitting the Bottle

Bottle-feeding these days is much easier than when my parents had to do it. Bottles can be adequately sterilized in a dishwasher, if you have one, and many bottles come with presterilized inserts that are disposable after each feeding.

Momma's Own Milk?

A breast pump is a device designed to fit over the breast and, through suction, draw mother's milk out into a connected tube or bulb. The pump does work, but many women find it painful and bothersome to use.

Why is breastfeeding important for babies?

Breastfeeding your baby helps to avoid food allergies in two ways: first, your baby is only being exposed to the foods that their mother eats and secretes in her breast milk, and second, breast milk helps boost a baby’s weak immune system.

How to prevent food allergies in babies?

Breastfeeding your baby helps to avoid food allergies in two ways: first, your baby is only being exposed to the foods that their mother eats and secretes in her breast milk, and second, breast milk helps boost a baby’s weak immune system.

What foods make milk hard to digest?

Things like spicy foods, chocolates, vegetables, and other types of foods can make the milk difficult for a baby to digest. If you feed your baby formula, you no longer have to concern yourself with your diet and how it will affect your baby.

What is the substance that a baby produces when breastfed?

The first milk that your body produces for your baby is called colostrum, and it has large amounts of a substance called secretory immunoglobulin — this substance provides your baby with resistance against germs which in turn helps prevent illnesses.

Why do mothers breastfeed?

When a mother breastfeeds her baby, it gives her a sense of confidence in knowing that she can provide her child with all of the nutrients he or she needs. This not only helps strengthen the bond between the baby and mother, but also helps to relieve feelings of anxiety as well.

Is breast milk digestible for babies?

Easier For Babies to Digest. A mother’s breast milk is far more easy for a baby to digest; there are enzymes in a mother’s milk that make it much easier to digest when compared to formula or cow’s milk.

Is breast milk the most nutritious?

Almost any doctor will tell you that a mother’s breast milk is by far the most nutritious when it comes to the choice of breast milk or baby formula. A mother’s breast milk contains many essential nutrients that aren’t found in baby formula.

Why bottle feed a baby?

There are many good reasons why you might choose to bottle-feed your baby. A mother infected with HIV, for example, should not breastfeed to avoid passing the virus to the baby. A mother may not be available for feeding throughout the day and night, or may have difficulty producing enough milk for the baby. In all of these cases, formula is a nutritionally sound alternative or supplement. Infant formulas have been improving over time to match the nutrient proportions of human milk. When bottle-feeding your infant, you should take care to determine which baby formulas have the best nutrient compositions for your baby, and consult your physician if necessary. Remember that just like with breastfeeding, bottle-feeding your baby gives you many opportunties to hold your child close and to form both a physical and psychological bond with your baby.

Why is breast milk important for babies?

Breast milk has many benefits. It is always available , clean, and sterile. The process of breastfeeding emotionally fulfills the baby’s need for warmth, cuddling, and face-to-face interactions with caregivers. Moreover, it is naturally the easiest food for a baby to digest, and is an invaluable source of nutrition for your baby: so special that science is still striving to this day to match its many thousand ingredients! One example is the benefits of breast milk for the baby’s immune system. At birth, a baby’s immune system is not fully developed. Consuming the mother’s breast milk will transfer to the baby a variety of antibodies that the mother has developed in response to past infections or immunizations. These antibodies will remain in your baby’s body for several months, protecting the baby from certain diseases in the first few weeks of life. Eventually, they will disappear and be replaced by the baby’s own early active antibodies, which provide permanent protection.

How long should a baby be breastfed?

For example, the American Academy of Pediatrics recommends that babies be breastfed exclusively for the first sixth months and encourages breastfeeding up to twelve months or longer than twelve months if possible.

Can you bottle feed a baby with a breast pump?

If you wish to combine some of the advantages of breastfeeding and bottle-feeding, you might consider a breast pump. A breast pump is a mechanical device that can extract breast milk, so that breast milk rather than a formula can be later bottle-fed to infants. This might prove useful, for example, when you return to work and are not available. A breast pump could be a great alternative that allows the infant to have all the nutritional benefits of your breast milk while still being bottle-fed.

Is it hard to breastfeed a baby?

As a mother, you might have had high expectations for the intimacy and bonding that arises from breastfeeding your child. Don’t feel discouraged, then, if you’ve tried to breastfeed your child and have found it more difficult than you expected. Breastfeeding can be difficult, especially in the first few weeks. Check out this page by the English National Health Service for advice on common breastfeeding problems such as not having enough breast milk.

Is it easy to breastfeed?

Breastfeeding is not always easy, and just because you find it difficult does not necessarily mean that you are doing it wrong. The first two weeks of breastfeeding are often the toughest! You might sleep very little, or you might feel anxious that your baby is not gaining enough weight. You might have problems ranging from engorgement and low milk supply, to poor latching. Often, these difficulties will smooth out over time. If they persist, consider contacting your doctor for more advice.

Is it better to bottle feed or breastfeed?

Many new mothers express concern that bottle-feeding their baby will not allow them to bond with their child as much as breastfeeding. But feeding, no matter the method, is an ideal time to strengthen your connection with your child. Weighing the advantages and disadvantages of breastfeeding and bottle-feeding will help you arrive at the best choice for you and your child. If you have additional questions, it may be helpful to consult with your obstetrician, who can provide you with advice tailored to your baby and your specific circumstances.

Why does my baby not latch?

It’s common for babies not to latch (immediately attached to your nipple) and there may be issues with the milk supply and it’s too painful once the baby does latch. Some causes of pain while breastfeeding could include mastitis, breast engorgement, plugged milk ducts, and sore nipples.

What to feed a baby when you are pregnant?

The three main choices are breastfeeding, bottle feeding with formula or pumping breast milk and then using a bottle with the breast milk. In this article we are going to look at the basic pros and cons of breastmilk vs formula and hopefully you will be better informed so you can decide what is best for you and your baby.

How long does it take for a baby to grow in the womb?

Your baby spent about 40 weeks growing inside your womb, soaking up all your healthy antibodies and becoming used to your specific foods. In the same way, breast milk helps babies to grow their immune system against bacteria and also promotes brain health.

Why do people stay away from formula?

In the past, many families stayed away from formula because of the nutrients that their baby would not get. But now with new research and better science, the formulas that are available in stores mimics breast milk and has all the necessary ingredients growing babies need.

How often should a baby eat?

Especially in the early months, babies eat a lot. As a newborn, your baby will need to eat every two hours. As they get older they will need to eat less frequently but they will still need you there as a regular source of food during the day. Some women may find frequent feeding difficult with their work and social schedules. Breastfeeding requires a big adjustment to your normal social or work life after giving birth. Often, women will combine breastfeeding with pumping, which they can do at work or in a public or private restroom, if needed.

How long does it take for a baby to get an infection from breast feeding?

Babies need about six weeks for their immune system to grow so most doctors suggest to keep them away from large groups until their immune system is built up. Formula has not been found to heighten the risk of sickness in children.

Why does my baby have a colic?

Colic is generally related to an upset tummy or intestinal disturbances in the baby. Some babies are intolerant to dairy and spicy foods, and this can make them gassy. Be mindful of the foods you eat and the beverages you consumer, and how they affect your baby when breastfeeding.

Why do parents use formula?

Many parents choose breastfeeding as the main source of nutrients for their baby and use formula as a supplement. This can allow the baby to receive healthy breast milk, and the parents to work and run errands when they need to.

Why is breastfeeding important?

This is because breastfeeding releases “feel good” hormones like oxytocin, which enhances emotional connection, adding to the feeling of maternal fulfillment. This all-important emotional connection at the beginning of life also benefits infants and mothers throughout their lives. 2

Why is it important for mothers to be aware of what they eat?

Because what the mother eats and drinks can be passed directly to her baby through breast milk, she must be more aware of what they consume. This can pose a challenge, at first, because mothers will have to become knowledgeable about certain contaminants.

Why is formula important for breastfeeding?

Where breastfeeding allows a bond between mother and child, formula allows both partners to share the bonding experience. As well, this can also help distribute feedings between partners, which can assist with getting needed sleep in addition to bonding benefits.

What is Crystal Run Healthcare?

Crystal Run Healthcare’s team of obstetricians and gynecologists help and educate women about their own health, as well as the health of their infants. We can also assist new mothers with breastfeeding issues, as well as recommend local resources where additional help may be obtained.

What is the most important decision a mother can make?

It’s true that one of the most important decisions a mother can make is how she will feed her infant. However, this decision is up to the mother and no one else to make. In doing what you feel is best for your baby, you are always making the right decision, whether that is to breast or bottle feed.

What are the disadvantages of formulas?

Likely the biggest disadvantage of formula is that it can be very costly, even if it is a basic and not a specialty product.

How long should a baby be fed formula?

Health experts agree that breastfeeding is the healthiest option for both mom and baby. They recommend that babies feed only on breast milk for the first 6 months, and then continue to have breast milk as a main part of their diet until they are ...

Why is breastfeeding good for babies?

Here are some of the many other benefits of breastfeeding: Breast milk naturally has all the nutrients babies need to grow and develop. Breast milk has antibodies that can help prevent your baby from getting sick.

How often should a baby eat?

Being a new parent takes time, and feeding is no exception to this rule. Breastfed babies will sometimes eat every hour for a while, before they take a long nap. Try to nap when your baby does. If you need a longer break, you can also express milk (by hand or pump) and have someone else feed the breast milk to your baby.

Why do you put your baby on your chest?

Ask your health care provider to put your baby on your chest, if everyone is healthy and stable after birth.

Why is it important to know about skin to skin contact at birth?

It is important to know this up front, so that you can make sure you have all the support and commitment you need if a problem does come up. Skin to skin contact at birth will help you and your baby get a good start with breastfeeding.

Is it better to breastfeed or carry?

Breastfeeding is also more convenient. You can breastfeed almost anywhere and anytime your baby is hungry. You do not need to make formula before feeding, worry about clean water, or carry it with you when you go out or travel. And you save money on formula, which can cost $1,000 or more a year.

Does breastfeeding help with allergies?

Breastfeeding can help prevent health problems in your baby, such as allergies, eczema, ear infections, and stomach problems.

image

Benefits to Breastfeeding

Challenges and Options For Breastfeeding

Benefits to Formula

Downsides to Formula

  • For additional information and resources, take a look at the following. 1. For a more detailed table comparing the advantages and disadvantages of breastfeeding versus bottlefeeding, visit this pageby the American Pregnancy Association. PregnancyChat on Youtube covers the same topic in the video below. 2. As a mother, you might have had high expect...
See more on babyschool.yale.edu

1.Breastfeeding vs bottle feeding | American Pregnancy …

Url:https://americanpregnancy.org/healthy-pregnancy/breastfeeding/breastfeeding-vs-bottle-feeding-formula/

16 hours ago 22 rows · Breastfeeding vs Bottle Feeding Formula. When it comes to deciding breastfeeding vs bottle ...

2.Which Is Better: Breastfeeding or Bottle-Feeding?

Url:https://www.familyeducation.com/life/breastfeeding/which-better-breastfeeding-or-bottle-feeding

31 hours ago 4 rows · Breast versus Bottle-Feeding, a Comparison; Breastfeeding Pros: Bottle-feeding Pros: ...

3.Videos of Which Is Better Bottle Feeding or Breastfeeding

Url:/videos/search?q=which+is+better+bottle+feeding+or+breastfeeding&qpvt=which+is+better+bottle+feeding+or+breastfeeding&FORM=VDRE

18 hours ago  · Not only does feeding formula allow for a schedule that’s more aligned with working hours, but, since formula is digested slower than breast milk, feeding is not required …

4.Should I breastfeed or bottle-feed my baby? – Yale Baby …

Url:https://babyschool.yale.edu/should-i-breastfeed-or-bottle-feed-my-baby/

2 hours ago One is to choose whether to breastfeed your baby or bottle feed using infant formula. Health experts agree that breastfeeding is the healthiest option for both mom and baby. They …

5.Breastfeeding VS. Bottle Feeding - Birthright

Url:https://birthrightoregon.org/breastfeeding-vs-bottle-feeding/

17 hours ago When it comes to bottle feeding or breastfeeding, both have their pros and cons, and ultimately the decision is up to you. If you’re able to breastfeed, it’s certainly worth a try—for both you and …

6.Breastfeeding vs. Bottle Feeding: What You Need to Know

Url:https://www.crystalrunhealthcare.com/articles/breastfeeding-vs-bottle-feeding-what-you-need-know

16 hours ago Breast feeding is convenient. No need to go to the store for formula, breast milk is always fresh and available. And when women breastfeed, there’s no need to warm up bottles in the middle …

7.Breastfeeding vs. formula feeding - MedlinePlus

Url:https://medlineplus.gov/ency/patientinstructions/000803.htm

25 hours ago Memo for moms Blog about moms and babies Menu. Menu

A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S T U V W X Y Z 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9