(Video uploaded 08/2014)

Transcript

What are the health risks of using formula milk?

• Most formulae on the market tried to add a variety of nutrients to make their content comparable to breastmilk. However, the content of formula milk can never be the same to that of breastmilk. It is because the nutrients added in formula milk are artificial and are very different from those of breastmilk in terms of the structure, function, and absorption. Currently, there is no sufficient clinical evidence to show that these added nutrients can bring long-term health benefits to the baby
• In addition, formula milk has no natural antibodies, growth factors and living cells etc, thus, it does not help in fighting diseases
• Contamination of formula milk can occur in any step of its manufacturing process from production, storage to transportation. Bacteria may also grow when reconstitution of milk is not done properly, which is risky to the baby's health
• Formula milk is expensive. Also, reconstituting formula milk takes more preparation, such as sterilising the milk bottles and teats, etc.
• After being fed with formula milk supplement, the baby's desire to be breastfed may reduce. Mother's confidence on breastfeeding will thus be adversely affected, followed by diminishing breastmilk production. Eventually, both mother and baby cannot enjoy the benefits of breastfeeding

To learn more about infant feeding, please contact the healthcare professionals of the Obstetrics / Paediatric service or Maternal and Child Health Centres for advice.