Whether my baby’s breastfed or formula-fed affects his growth?

Nursing can be a wonderful experience for both mother and baby. It provides ideal nourishment and a special bonding experience. But breastfeeding may not be possible for all women. The decision to breastfeed or formula feed your baby is a personal one.

•Breastfed babies have fewer infections and hospitalizations than formula-fed infants.

•Breastfed infants have less difficulty with digestion than do formula-fed infants.

•It provides natural antibodies that help your baby resist illnesses, such as ear infections.

•Studies show that breastfed infants have a lower hospitalization rate and tend to be in better health. 

•Carbohydrates, such as lactose, which support a healthy balance of bacteria in your baby’s stomach.

•A large randomised controlled trial in Europe found that a higher protein content of infant formula is associated with higher weight in the first two years of a child’s life.

•The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recommends breastfeeding as the healthiest way to feed newborns and infants.

•Women who breastfeed have lower rates of breast and ovarian cancer, osteoporosis, type-2 diabetes and high blood pressure. The longer you breastfeed the better it is for your health.