by Aliyeus J

Created on: January 30, 2010

Most women begin conjuring up images and outlining their most strategic plans long before the grand arrival of a new baby. Mommy-to-be will likely experience a passion and determination unlike any she has ever felt, to care for her newborn to the absolute best of her abilities. Along with all this emotional energy, “what is best for my child,” will present itself as the one nagging question that will never cease to persist.

We all want to make the best possible decisions for our children, and how you choose to feed your newborn can be one of the first and most important decisions you make for your child. Although, I do consider breastfeeding to be the best option for feeding newborns, it is, as we all know, not the only option. Formula feeding as another option for feeding your newborn has its own advantages, conveniences and necessities.

If you are a mother trying to decide rather to breastfeed or formula feed your baby, my advice to you would be to make an informed decision, and do what works best for both you and the child. I will present some positives of breastfeeding in hopes that you may utilize the information in deciding what is best for you and the new baby.

The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) advocates breastfeeding as the best choice for infants. But at times, there may be certain situations, or conditions of a mother's health, that make breastfeeding impossible or highly discouraged. There are also instances in which a mother's lifestyle may present obstacles for breastfeeding, or  obstacles in the production of breast milk if the mom does not exercise regular practice of breastfeeding, or at least a breast pump.


Advantages of breast milk

Breast milk is perfectly created to provide the exact nutrition composition for your baby's needs. It contains all the necessary vitamins, and is compatible to a newborn’s sensitive digestive system. Antibodies found in breast milk protect infants from disease and bouts of diarrhea. Also, studies have been conducted on breastfed babies, and have shown that they are less likely to develop allergies, and other conditions such as, diabetes, high cholesterol, asthma, or obesity.

Breastfeeding benefits for mom

Many mothers find convenience in breastfeeding, as breast milk comes ready-made, unlike formula that has to be prepared, and may run out. Breast milk remains at the perfect temperature, and runs inexpensive, while formula often needs to be warmed evenly (not in the microwave) after refrigeration,

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