24/01/2024
Hey moms👋🏼
I recently had parents bring in their 2-month old who was severely dehydrated and just hours from death's door.
As a healthcare professional, I deemed it important to address concerns about mixed feeding (combining breastfeeding with formula) in the context of newborns.
1. DIGESTIVE CHALLENGES :
Mixed feeding can strain a newborn's digestive system as breast milk and formula have different compositions. This incongruity may lead to difficulties in digestion, causing discomfort and potential issues like colic.
2. ALLERGY SENSITIVITIES :
Introducing formula increases the risk of allergic reactions in some infants. Breast milk is tailored to a baby's immune system, and abrupt shifts to formula can trigger allergies or sensitivities.
3. INCONSISTENT NUTRIENT INTAKE:
Breast milk provides optimal nutrition, adapting to a baby's changing needs. Introducing formula disrupts this balance, potentially leading to inconsistent nutrient intake and impacting the baby's overall growth and development.
4. INFECTION RISKS:
Newborns are very vulnerable to infections guys😔. Mixed feeding may expose them to contaminants present in formula or improperly sterilized bottles, increasing the chances of infections such as gastroenteritis.
5. EMOTIONAL CONNECTION:
Breastfeeding fosters a unique emotional connection between mother and baby. Mixed feeding might alter this bond, affecting both the baby's emotional development and the mother's mental well-being.
I am also aware that mommy's also have other commitments such as going to back to work, which is why I advise seeking advise from a healthcare professional to create a feeding plan that is aligned with baby's needs. Open communication, monitoring the baby's health, and addressing concerns promptly contribute to a healthier start for newborns.
Remember, each baby is unique, and personalized guidance from healthcare professionals ensures the best outcomes for both the mother and the newborn.👶💙
