When we look at the world conditions, the body of an adult person seems quite strong to our eyes. But as we all know, the adult body does not receive this power from birth, but instead acquires it through certain situations or conditions. For this reason, he is very vulnerable at the first moment he is born. For this reason, it is necessary to be very sensitive to it and to be very selective about what it is fed.
There is no one who does not know that babies should be fed with breast milk until a certain time. So, should cow’s milk, which everyone is accustomed to daily consumption, be preferred when breast milk is not available? Let’s examine this question, which we will undoubtedly say no, together with its reasons.
What is the difference between breast milk and cow’s milk?
First of all, breast milk contains antibodies that cow’s milk does not. This is critical for the early development of your baby’s immune system. In addition, the rate of fat in breast milk is higher than in cow’s milk. However, it is easier for the baby to digest. The amount of protein in cow’s milk is much higher, but don’t let this look like a good thing.
These proteins, which are in excess, make the digestion of cow’s milk more difficult for babies. Finally, the amount of carbohydrates in cow’s milk is less than in breast milk. This indicates that breast milk provides sufficient energy to babies and contributes to their general development. Many differences like these make breast milk stand out for babies.
Why shouldn’t we give cow’s milk to babies?
Considering the factors we have mentioned, we can see that cow’s milk will leave the baby development incomplete. Babies who are left behind in situations such as immunity and energy level are vulnerable to significant ailments. As a result, anemia, intestinal problems, digestive system problems, diarrhea can occur, which can threaten the life of babies whose immune system has not yet developed.
As a result, although cow’s milk is ahead of breast milk in some respects, we can say that breast milk contains the most appropriate amount of substances for babies.
So when is it appropriate to give cow’s milk to the baby?
According to pediatricians, giving cow’s milk to babies younger than 1 year old should be avoided. This includes flavored ones like goat’s milk and milkshake. After your baby turns 1 year old, it is recommended that you gradually give pasteurized cow’s milk or low-fat milk, but not in large quantities.
But as with everything, too much cow’s milk is harmful to your baby. In this context, when consumed in excessive amounts, conditions such as iron deficiency may occur. But don’t let this scare you. Because cow’s milk, as long as you give it in normal amounts, will be very important for the development of your baby, who is now ready to digest himself.
What can be done in cases where breast milk is insufficient?
In our country, the way of breastfeeding is more common. But when that’s not the case, formula foods save the day a bit. Although these formulas, which are specially produced for babies, are mostly made from cow’s milk, they make up for the shortcomings we have just mentioned and provide babies with the proteins, vitamins and minerals they need in the closest way to breast milk.
Although these are produced from cow’s milk, they are purified from heavy protein and minerals that the baby has difficulty digesting, although not as much as in breast milk, and therefore they can be digested a little slower than breast milk. It should also be noted that it is recommended to switch to additional food after 6 months.
While some babies do not show an allergic reaction to cow’s milk, some may face very bad situations. For this reason, you should definitely stay in touch with your specialist doctor about your baby’s nutrition.
Sources: 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7
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