Breast milk contains infection-fighting antibodies that pass from mother to child. I think it really helps with immunities and possibly with allergies. About 20 different studies suggest they are 3 to 5 IQ points smarter than formula-fed babies. The compounds in breast milk, long chain polyunsaturated fatty acids with names such as DHA and AA , may actually speed up brain development. Essential fatty acids are necessary for the normal development of cells in our body, including neurons or brain cells, explained pediatrician Dr. Elizabeth Dickey.
Moms have to learn it.
Babies have to learn it. And if they re committed to do that, they re going to be committed to nurturing their child also in other ways, too. If you choose to breastfeed, ask for a lactation specialist during your hospital stay or see one before the baby is born. So far, scientists have not found a way to make formula identical to breast milk. WFAA-TV Co. All Rights Reserved.