Pros And Cons Of Breastfeeding

Breastfeeding is a very controversial subject in today's society as a mother is allowed the choice of breast feeding or using formula. However, it is clear that breast milk is the most priement choice as “Commercial formulas attempt to duplicate mother's milk using a complex combination of proteins.” (1). Breastfeeding supplies the most necessary nutrients that a child needs in order to receive the proper growth and development. Although it is seen that breastfeeding is the preferred option, in some cases formula may be the only option. In addition, not only will breastfeeding benefit the child but it will also benefit the mother as well. As many studies have shown that breastfeeding provides many nutrients that are required because of the

The first initial feeding must happen after birth, nursing right after the baby is born is an advantage because the newborn is awake and responsive. After the first period of alertness, the baby will sleep for much of the next 24 hours, and it may become difficult to get the baby to latch on. Furthermore, the milk that the newborn will first be receiving is colostrum. The baby will most likely drink about 2 to 10 ml during the first 2 to 3 days. Colostrum is a very heavy nutrient in which it provides the baby with about 580-700 kilocalories/L. Following the first feeding the mother should be aware of the signs when the baby starts to get hungry again. Hunger signs can include: opening the mouth, puckering lips as if to suck,moving the head from side to side, breast and showing the rooting reflex, putting hands in mouth, and sticking out tongue. Many first time breastfeeding mothers often believe that only when the baby is crying is when he or she is hungry, which it incorrect as crying is usually a late sign of hunger. When the baby is ready to eat it is also important that the baby is latched on correctly and is eating long enough. As a matter of fact all nutrients, vitamins, and minerals are sufficient enough in maternal diet, as they are passed to the baby, in which fewer additions are needed. However, they are very much needed depending on the mother’s diet. As the mother may be a vegetarian or maybe even vegan, the baby will need folic acid, zinc, and vitamin D. All babies need Vitamin D as a baby may be indoors and is not usually out in the sun. Although even getting the baby in the sun for a few minutes a day should be enough. However, some mothers do not want to take the risk so supplementation is highly