Working mothers are often forced to feed their babies formula milk. But research shows it would be worthwhile to give a second thought before doing so.
A research published in the Archives of Disease in Childhood shows babies fed excessive formula milk are at an increased risk of becoming obese in their early years.
The Archives of Disease in Childhood is an international peer review journal and the official journal of UK’s Royal College of Pediatrics and Child Health. The journal aims to keep pediatricians and others up to date with advances in the diagnosis and treatment of childhood diseases as well as advocacy issues such as child protection.
Dr. Yoriko, a pediatrician with the national referral hospital, says obesity resulting from formula feeding also increases risks of contracting non-communicable diseases later in life.
“Bottles are easier to suck, so babies end up being fed more, which leads to weight gain,” Dr. Yoriko Nishizawa said.
“So, with formula feeding, there is always risk of becoming overweight. Obesity and overweight are causes of hypertension, diabetes and all other non-communicable diseases. That’s why breast milk is the best food for babies.”
She said formula feeding is recommended only if a mother cannot breastfeed due to health or medical reasons.
