Review on Key Features of Infant Feeding: Human Milk and Infant Formula

Human breast milk (HBM) is the finest source of nutrition for almost all infants. Breast milk as a bodily fluid has many benefits beyond somatic cell growth, including regulation of postnatal intestinal function, immune ontogeny, and brain development. However, breastfeeding is strongly recommended, breastfeeding may not always be possible, suitable or solely adequate1. Hence, Infant formula is often an alternative source of infant nutrition when breastfeeding is unacceptable or impossible. The composition of infant formula should be as close as possible to the composition of human breast milk, both in terms of content and chemical specification2. Infant formulas try to mimic the nutritional composition of breast milk as closely as possible. A number of substitutes to milk-based formula also exist. In this article, we review nutritional information for breast milk and infant formulas to help you better understand the importance of breastfeeding and the use of infant formulas up to 24 months of age when alternative feeding is required. In general, breast milk is the ideal food to ensure that an infant's nutritional needs are met. Keywords: breast milk; infant formula; type of infant formula; benefits