Dr. Cothran speaks on the risks vs. rewards of breast feeding

Breast Feeding vs. Formula Feeding for Baby and Mom

Dr. Judy Cothran encourages breast feeding for most moms taking into account each patient’s individual case.

Benefits of breast feeding vs. Risks of formula feeding for baby and mom

Babies Moms   
Enhances the natural bonding between Mom and Baby Helps Mom Lose weight; breastfeeding burns up to 500 calories per day
Has nutrients baby needs without artificial additives, chemicals or preservatives Reduces Mom’s risk of breast, endometrial, and ovarian cancer
Prevents infections such as colds, flu, and ear infections by transferring mom’s immune system to baby Saves money; savings of $1,500 to $3,600 per year
Human milk contains antimicrobial agents, anti-inflammatory agents, and immunoglobulins Reduces risk of anemia by preventing excess blood loss
Easy to digest, breast fed babies are less likely to have colic (gas), vomiting or diarrhea Relaxation and stress reduction due to hormone (oxytocin) release
Reduces the risk of diseases such as diabetes (type 1 and 2), obesity, asthma, and childhood cancers (leukemia) Reduces risk of type 2 diabetes
Reduces the risk of SIDS (sudden infant death syndrome) May reduce the risk of osteoporosis and bone fracture
Breast fed babies have higher IQ’s because the lipid or fat in breast milk supports early brain development Reduces risk of rheumatoid arthritis
Tastes better, breast milk will taste like the food mom eats May reduce the risk of postpartum depression
Convenient, no bottle preparation or warm-up Supports birth spacing by delaying postpartum ovulation

 

Risks of Formula Feeding

 

Babies Moms
Increased risk of obesity Increased risk of breast cancer
Increased risk of diabetes Increased risk of ovarian and endometrial cancer
Increased risk of asthma Increased risk of obesity
Increased risk of allergies, including food allergies Increased stress and anxiety
Increased risk of acute respiratory disease Increased risk of anemia
Increased risk of childhood cancers, such as leukemia Increased risk of diabetes
Increased risk of gastrointestinal infections May be at increased risk of bone fracture due to osteoporosis
Increased risk of otitis media or ear infections Increased risk of rheumatoid arthritis
Increased risk of cardiovascular disease Reduced natural child spacing
Increased risk of chronic disease
Increased risk of nutrient deficiencies
Reduced cognitive development
Increased risk of infection from contaminated formula
Increased risk of side effects from environmental contaminants