Feeding your baby

How we feed our babies is one of the most important decisions we make those first few weeks of their lives. Agreed, we probably decided way before they were born but sometimes certain things make it impossible for us to stick to our initial decision.

Breastmilk is the best form of food for our babies and the department of Health recommends exclusive breastfeeding for the first 6months.

However sometimes it is impossible for us to breast feed so we choose to bottle feed. I have found that doing this is particularly difficult for mothers of African descent becasue of interference from relatives.

The Stories

In general, people assume that you are breast feeding your baby, they have great stories to tell you that can make you question your decision in a split second. The stories include things like 'breast-feeding makes the baby's brain develop better' and ' breast-fed babies are more active than bottle-fed babies'. You'll hardly stand a chance but if your mind is made up, then take no notice.

The Truth

Breast feeding is indeed the best form of feeding for your baby as aforementioned but it does not always work for everyone and if it is not working for you, then accept it.

The Guilt

You will most probably have some feelings of guilt when you decide not to breastfeed or stop breast feeding early. It's again the ' perfect mum syndrome', the need to reassure yourself that you are doing the best for your child. You will have to make and stick to a decision so as to lessen the conflicting emorions you are already coping with.

TIP:
If breastfeeding and your child has colic, try not to drink orange juice as it contributes to it.

If bottle feeding and your child has colic, try INFACOL , Mums say it works like magic .