Advantages of Breastfeeding over Artificial Feed

Advantages of Breastfeeding over Artificial Feed

There are several advantages of breastfeeding over artificial feed. Breast milk helps in the optimum growth of the child without making the child fat. There are many advantages of breastfeeding over artificial feed. Breast milk is the perfectly balanced food containing every thing that a baby needs initially. It helps in the optimum growth of the child without making the child fat. It contains special protective substances which help in the prevention of many illnesses, infections and allergies such as respiratory infections, ear infections, diarrhea, eczema and asthma. Above all, breastfeeding strengthens the bond of love and affection between a mother and her baby.
The artificial feed may be unhygienically prepared and may cause an infection in the newly born child. It has no substantial food value. It delays the administration of breast milk. It may occasionally choke the baby if not given in the correct way.
For the mother, there are several advantages of breastfeeding. Immediately after the birth, it helps in controlling bleeding and in returning the womb to its normal size. It also helps the mother to get back into proper shape by helping her gained during pregnancy. Some women have the tendency to become over-weight after childbirth, especially around the bosom. Above all breastfeeding the baby gives a sense of fulfillment and satisfaction.
Many illnesses and obesity in later age are more common among artificially fed babies than breastfed ones. A survey conducted in this regard has shown that breastfed babies possess a slim and healthy appearance compared to artificially fed babies. The fat content is much more in artificial milk. The composition of artificial milk is the same throughout, whereas in breast milk the fat content is higher later than in early suckling. When the baby feels full it stops drinking voluntarily. This keeps the baby from being over-fed. It is almost impossible to over-feed with breast milk.
The protein in cow’s milk is larger in amount than in breast milk. The curd formation in artificial milk is much thicker than in breast milk. Thus breast milk is easily digestible. The proteins from artificial milk pass out in the faeces and urine in a larger quantity. Wastage in case of breast milk is much less. Consequently, a baby fed on artificial milk drinks more milk than a breast fed baby, resulting in an excessive intake of fat. Remember, obesity is not a sign of good health.
Disclaimer: This article is not meant to provide health advice and is for general information only. Always seek the insights of a qualified health professional before embarking on any health program.
Copyright © Nick Mutt, All Rights Reserved. If you want to use this article on your website or in your ezine, make all the urls (links) active.