Unesa. ac.id, SURABAYA— Giving formula milk to babies or children is legal, as long as it is done on a doctor's recommendation and in the appropriate dosage. However, as long as possible, breastfeeding remains a priority.
UNESA Nutrition Study Program Lecturer, Aulia Putri Srie Wardani emphasized that exclusive breastfeeding must be the main priority in fulfilling baby nutrition. He said that formula milk is basically to meet the nutritional needs of babies when breast milk is lacking or not available.
“Formula milk is only an additional nutritional intake for babies and is not to replace breast milk. Breast milk has important nutrients that cannot be replaced by formula milk. "For example, using formula milk should be recommended and supervised by a doctor, it should not be done just any way," he stressed.
Aulia commented on the views of many people who think that formula milk can make babies grow taller than breast milk. This is not because of the nutritional content, but rather the habitual pattern of giving milk.
"One of the reasons is the amount and frequency of giving milk. Many young mothers think that giving a little breast milk is enough, even though breast milk must be given abundantly. the amount is appropriate and increases as the baby grows," he explained.
Challenges such as maternal health problems, busy work and unsupportive conditions often hinder optimal breastfeeding.
On the contrary, giving Formula milk is easier and is often overdone. Aulia emphasized that although formula milk can meet nutritional needs, breast milk is still better in supporting the growth and development of babies.
"Introducing appropriate complementary foods (MPASI) is also important after the baby reaches six months of age," she added.
Tips and Urgency of Breast Milk
Aulia also outlined the various advantages of breast milk compared to formula milk. Breast milk contains antibodies and factors immunology that protects babies from infection and disease, enzymes and hormones that support digestion and absorption of nutrients, as well as nutritional composition that is balanced and adaptable to the baby's needs.
Apart from that, breastfeeding also strengthens the emotional bond between mother and babies, which cannot be achieved with formula milk. To support the success of the exclusive breastfeeding program, the Sleman-born lecturer offers several tips.
First, family support is very important, both materially and morally, to help breastfeeding mothers. Second, education and counseling about the benefits of breast milk and breastfeeding techniques must be given to new breastfeeding mothers.
"Some mothers may not know the right breastfeeding techniques, especially mothers who have just given birth to their first child," he explained.
Then regular monitoring by health workers is needed to ensure that breast milk meets the baby's needs. Creating a comfortable environment for mothers is also important, both at home and at work, including providing breastfeeding spaces in public places, which can help mothers feel more relaxed when breastfeeding.
"The most important thing is maintaining the mother's physical and mental health "Having a healthy diet and getting enough rest is also important to support optimal breast milk production," he added.[]
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Reporter: Mohammad Dian Purnama (FMIPA)
Editor: @zam*
Illustration: Ayosehat.kemkes.go.id
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