Breast milk or formula milk?
After a baby is born, many parents consider whether to breastfeed or use formula. Of course, we would recommend mothers to breastfeed as much as possible, because the benefits of breast milk are truly numerous:
- Breast milk is better for a baby's immune system because it contains many antibodies which enhance the baby's immune system as they absorb it.
- To reduce the occurrence of some allergic symptoms in babies, including eczema, allergic rhinitis, and asthma.
- Also beneficial for the baby's digestive system.
However, we must note that the vitamin D content in breast milk is relatively low, so mothers may also give their children vitamin D supplements in moderation to ensure they do not have a vitamin D deficiency.
Is it okay to breastfeed and bottle-feed with formula?
Actually, many mothers also use this method, because sometimes mothers' milk supply is also insufficient, which is actually not a problem. Trying your best to breastfeed will help the baby.
Is it okay to just feed formula?
Of course, there are no problems either, because the nutritional content of formula milk is definitely sufficient for babies to grow healthily. As for some mothers who really want to breastfeed but cannot due to certain objective conditions, there is no need to put too much pressure on yourselves. We have seen some mothers put a lot of pressure on themselves regarding breastfeeding, which affects their emotional well-being. The most important thing to remember is that raising a child is a very happy experience. We hope mothers can feed their babies with a relaxed state of mind.
Does the baby need nutritional supplements?
Generally speaking, if a baby is feeding normally, whether with breast milk or formula, most nutritional deficiencies are unlikely. Of course, individual circumstances need to be considered, for example:
- Iron: It's important for helping children make blood and for brain development.
- Calcium: Important for the development of teeth and bones
- Zinc: is a trace element that can help the immune system
- DHA: Very important for brain and eye development
- Vitamin C: Helps the immune system
- Probiotics: helpful for gut health, the immune system and preventing allergies
Upon hearing so many benefits, is supplementation really necessary? It depends on the growth and development of each baby. Actually, I personally think it's fine to give babies extra supplements, and if you want to know more about nutrients for your baby, you can consult your paediatrician.
