Jaimie Etkin: The Devil Wore Manolos
Breastfeeding Still Best for Infants Despite Concern Over Toxins
Filed under: Toddlers Preschoolers, Health & Safety: Babies, Development/Milestones: Babies, Day Care & Education, Feeding & Sleeping, Breast-Feeding, Baby-sitting, Research Reveals: Babies, Nutrition: Toddlers & Preschoolers, Expert Advice: Babies, Health & Safety: Toddlers & Preschoolers, Development: Toddlers & Preschoolers, Behavior: Toddlers & Preschoolers, Activities: Toddlers & Preschoolers, Gear Guides: Babies, Gear Guides: Toddlers & Preschoolers, Research Reveals: Toddlers & Preschoolers, Expert Advice: Toddlers & Preschoolers
Not so long ago, mothers experienced a minor freak out over a report that noted there were toxins in breast milk, which suggested that breastfeeding might not be the be all, end all of the universe for children as we've been told. Well, despite all that, further research upholds the notion that breastfeeding is still best for baby despite the possibilities of toxins found in breast milk. (I would further that notion by saying that breastfeeding is best if you are able to do so and it's what works best for your family.)
Researchers reviewed data from three studies, two Dutch and one German, which covered everything from breastfeeding versus formula feeding to infants and mothers exposed to dioxins before birth. The results indicated minor differences in the babies with regard to levels of dioxins, none of which were considered abnormal or harmful levels. Babies who were exposed to dioxins displayed a slightly increased level of thyroid hormones and slightly decreased platelet counts.
Babies who were breastfed showed increased signs of mental development when they were tested at 7 months and 18 months. It was noted by one doctor involved in the study that breastmilk has unique properties making it a better nutritional choice for infants. It was also noted, however, by Dr. Lawrence, editor of the journal Breastfeeding Medicine, that contaminants are possible in formula made with tap water. So? Well, basically your child could be exposed to toxins either way. My answer? Do what's best for your family. Breastfeed if you can, and, if not, then use purified water (I suppose). Final analysis? Don't let one or two studies freak you out!
Your<span>Voice</span>
Ask Us Anything About Parenting
Recently Asked
TheTalkies:RelatedVideos
-
Breastfeeding Babies that Bite
Emma Howard discusses the topic of breastfeeding babies that bite.
-
Breastfeeding Baby Doll: Educational or Inappropriate?
Parents have mixed opinions about the world's first breastfeeding doll, Bebé Glotón.
-
How to Know When Your Baby Is Old Enough for You to Stop Breastfeeding
Breastfeeding is recommended for the first year of your baby's life. Ultimately, breastfeeding will end when either the mother or child feels the time is right. Look for signs to see whether your baby is old enough to stop breastfeeding.
-
How to Position a Baby for Breastfeeding
Learn how to properly position your baby when breastfeeding, and the various positions you can use when breastfeeding.
SitesWeLove
- Site Map
- |
- Staff
- |
- Terms of Service
- |
- Privacy Policy
- |
- Trademarks
- |
- Advertise With Us
- |
- About Our Ads
- |
- AOL Downloads
- |
- Contact Us
- |
© Copyright 2012 AOL Inc. All Rights Reserved.
Aol Family
ReaderComments (Page 1 of 1)
12-23-2008 @ 12:05PM
ninainindia said..."(I would further that notion by saying that breastfeeding is best if you are able to do so and it's what works best for your family.)"
Why that sentence? "If you are able to do so" speaks for itself, you don't need to add that.
"If it's what works best for your family" that is just an empty line that basically says nothing, an empty excuse to make sure you won't be attacked with replies from people that always need to say "but, but, but"
Reply
12-23-2008 @ 12:28PM
Michelle said...Actually, no, breastfeeding is best, period. Formula doesn't suddenly become "better" for babies because it "works for your family" (whatever that means.) Women should be fully informed about the choices they make, there is no reason to sugar-coat scientific research. (Obviously, if you absolutely cannot breastfeed, formula is the best choice - better than starvation, but that should go without saying!)
For example, I know that feeding my kids sweets is probably not the best choice. (I'm NOT comparing formula to junk food, so please don't go there.) But, yes, we allow sweets in our house, sometimes more than is probably healthy. If a new study comes out about kids and sugar, I want to see it so I can decide how to proceed with all the relevant information. Maybe I will decide to cut back on junk, maybe I will decide that a little is OK despite whatever research says. Regardless, I want to be informed. And I would never argue that junk food is the "best" choice because it "works for my family."
Reply
12-23-2008 @ 2:18PM
mamaloo said...Love that! "Formula: It's better than starvation!"
12-23-2008 @ 4:53PM
Jenni said...Who would actually have ever believed that breastmilk WASN'T best? Seriously! Did anyone really believe that?
Reply
12-26-2008 @ 7:02AM
Sandyone said...Actually, yes. I once had a young man tell me that formula had to be better because it was scientifically formulated. Granted, he was young, but that kind of thinking is out there. Also, "everybody does it" is a powerful influence. "I was raised this way and turned out fine".
For me, it was intuitive. I never knew of the 'controversy' until I was well into my breastfeeding career (14 years and going strong!). It makes such simple sense to me and always has.
12-24-2008 @ 7:45AM
Mon said...Thank you for adding "if you are able to do so" Most breast is best articles entirely dismiss this notion. As a mother who desperately wanted nothing more than to BF and was then unable to, I was devastated. There are enough BreastgapoMilk Mafia women out there. It's time we realise that life isn't perfect, and support ALL women who are doing what's best in their individual circumstances.
Reply
12-24-2008 @ 12:26PM
gena said...Thank you Mon! Not everyone can BF, and some of those who can are really high and mighty in your face about it. I think that feeding your baby whatever you can in the beginning is what really matters. By the way, there are brain surgeons that have been formula fed.
Reply