Breast Milk Overview

Breast milk is the ideal source of nutrition for infants. Breast milk contains appropriate amounts of carbohydrates, proteins and lipids. It also provides digestive proteins, minerals, vitamins and hormones that infants need. Breast milk contains valuable antibodies from the mother that can help the baby resist infections.

Healthy children have adequate iron stores last up to 8 months of age. Iron-rich foods can be started at this age. Your pediatrician or dietitian may recommend fluoride supplements if you live in the communities where the water is not fluoridated.

Cow's milk itself is not suitable for children under 1 year of age. A child may develop an allergy to dairy products if given cow's milk too early. Although cow's milk contains most of the same components as breast milk, these components are not the same extent. Cow's milk also lacks the immune factors (antibodies) that help protect the children until their immune system develops fully.

Commercially prepared formulas can be made from nonfat milk cow whey protein or soy protein. To provide a balanced diet for an infant, formulas must be fortified with carbohydrates, fats, minerals and vitamins. The antibodies in breast milk, but can never be added to formulas.