One of the biggest decisions any new parent has to make is whether they are going to use baby formula or breastfeed their new arrival. Research and discussion on the pros and cons of baby formula versus breast milk have been ongoing for years, and there are some pretty convincing arguments for both sides.
Baby formula is absolutely everywhere to buy now and it would be difficult to go into a supermarket that didn’t have a large selection. Yet some parents and experts swear by breastmilk for standing the test of time.
Regardless of which way you lean on the subject, each option deserves a closer look so you can make the right decision for your family. There are various factors that could push you one way or another, like medical conditions, so it is a good thing there are options. As a parent, knowledge is an important tool in raising your children.
For a look at some of the advantages and disadvantages of baby formula all you need to do is keep reading.
Pro: Anyone Can Do It
Any experienced parent is going to agree it is always a huge deal when you have a helping hand with the baby. Using baby formula means that just about anyone can feed the baby successfully and ensure they get exactly what they need. Baby formula is fairly foolproof to prepare as all you need to do is follow the directions.
Con: It Is Not As Personal
Any mother will understand that the connection she has with her child is a special bond that cannot be explained easily. The act of a mother feeding her child from her own body is something that is very personal and will be completely missed if you decide to go with formula. Ease of use may not be enough to sway some mothers from this chance to bond with their little one.
Pro: Mum Can Finally Relax A Bit
If nine months of growing and carrying another person in your own body weren’t enough you are now expected to go through the process of breastfeeding and still carefully watching what you put in your body. Baby formula can give mum a well-earned break on her diet and rigid schedule so she can finally relax and do something for herself.
Con: It Can Be Very Expensive
The majority of new parents are going to appreciate being economical. When you are growing your family money is normally at a premium, so the extra cost of formula, bottles, nipples, and car seats can end up being a huge hit to your monthly budget. The choice here is going to be completely based on your financial capabilities.
Pro: Your Baby Feeds Less Often
For any of you parents who are wishing for just a little bit more sleep at night, baby formula may be right up your alley. With the nutritional makeup of formulas, you are not going to be feeding your baby as many times per day.
Con: It Lacks Natural Immunity Defenses
One of the most important parts of breastmilk is the natural immunity the baby will start to develop due to the contents. While they are working hard to make formula along the same lines as breastmilk, it has not reached a comparable level yet.
Baby Formula Is Your Choice
Whether or not you decide to feed your child with breastmilk or bottled formula it will be a personal decision that only you, the parents, can make. There are many factors you will want to consider and a lot of positives and negatives for both sides of the equation. You must weigh your options and see what is going to be best for your individual case.
There is no need to feel ashamed or question your feeding choices. Both breastmilk and baby formula are safe ways to give your baby the nutrition he/she needs to grow into a strong and healthy person.
