Babies Fed Breast Milk Smarter Than Premature Formula Counterparts
Jul 10th, 2006 by Lilian
I had posted a similar news in MyLittleHeroes, a site for parents with critically ill and premature babies. However, just thought that I should highlight this study because this is another reason why mothers should breastfeed their babies.
New research published in the July issue of Pediatrics finds that premature children fed breast milk in the hospital did better on tests of mental development later in life than did others fed only formula. The premature babies all weighed less than 2 pounds, 3 ounces.
The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recommends that premature and other high-risk infants be fed breast milk. Since the preemies had trouble suckling, medical personnel needed to feed the babies by tube or bottle.
This is believed to be the first study comparing breast milk and formula on premature newborn babies. The researcher believe it is the fatty acids that benefit the babies, and that feeding the smallest babies breast milk could save money in special education services. (full news here)
So, if you want a smarter and healthier baby, breastfeed. There is no other substitute.