While consuming newborn milk is a traditional way to nourish your newborn, it’s not recommended for infants. Its high iron content can lead to anaemia and bowel bleeding, and its high cholesterol and saturated fat levels can tax a newborn’s developing heart. Many physicians and health organizations recommend against giving milk to infants and children altogether. But which is best? Let’s look at the benefits and risks of both cow’s milk and formula.
First, you should remember that colostrum contains more protein than mature milk. Newborn milk is referred to as ‘liquid gold’ because it’s high-density milk that contains more protein and fat-soluble vitamins than mature milk. Similarly, colostrum is rich in proteins and minerals. However, newborn milk is also lower in progesterone, an essential hormone for a woman’s health.
A formula was developed to fill the gap created by orphans. It is a convenient substitute for breastfeeding, though its benefits are limited. However, the World Health Organisation recommends exclusively breastfeeding your baby for 6 months to two years. Breast milk contains the nutrients your baby needs to grow and develop optimally, making them brighter and healthier. And as a bonus, breastfed babies have lower incidences of disease and obesity, which is why they tend to be healthier and more radiant as they grow up.
Despite these risks, breast milk is the best source of nutrition for a newborn. While it may be challenging to find out exactly why your newborn milk produces certain compounds, the fact is that it provides vital nutrients to the body. It is especially true if you’re a premature baby. Although there are many unanswered questions about breast milk, the Larsson-Rosenquist Foundation, a Swiss foundation, has pledged $10.5 million to the University of California San Diego’s Center for Human Milk Research.
The first milk produced by your body is called colostrum. It is a rich source of nutrients and antibodies. Colostrum protects your baby from infections and strengthens its immune system. However, colostrum is not available in large quantities – it’s enough for your newborn to receive a single hourly feed. Considering giving your newborn breastmilk, consider it worth the extra cost.
Nursing your newborn is an excellent opportunity for bonding and strengthening your bond with your child. Using a cloth diaper and a towel, you should be able to burp your child halfway through a feeding. Ideally, this will occur every half-ounce of milk your child consumes. To burp your newborn, place your hand over the baby’s chest, head, and chin. When you’re done, pat the baby’s back to keep it elevated.
