Thursday, February 23, 2006

Formula is a poor substitute for breast-feeding (The Patriot Ledger)

READER'S VIEW: Formula is a poor substitute for breast-feeding

In regards to hospitals stopping the practice of giving infant formula to new mothers, the risks of feeding babies with anything other than the milk nature designed for them are real.

Pick up a can of formula and read the ingredients to see that it is quite inferior to breast milk. It is mainly made up of sugar and oils and a protein, such as cow’s milk, soy or whey. It does not contain antibodies, digestive enzymes or immunoglobulin.

Babies that are fed formula are 14 times more likely to be hospitalized in their first year. These babies are more prone to respiratory illnesses, ear infections and diarrhea, according to the book, ‘‘Ultimate Breastfeeding Book of Answers,’’ by Jack Newman, M.D.



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