The Perfect Food for Your Baby:
Breaking Breastfeeding Myths

As any parent knows, from the moment you announce you're expecting you will receive advice whether or not you ask for it. However, some of the information, even if it is well-intentioned, may be incorrect. Certainly this is true about the topic of breastfeeding. People are happy to share their advice, but they might not have all the facts. Here's your chance to test what you know.

1. You need to avoid spicy and gassy foods when you breastfeed.
2. Frequent nursing leads to poor milk production.
3. Giving a baby formula will help him sleep better.
4. Modern formulas are similar to breastmilk.

All of these statements are false, but they still are widely believed and repeated. Here are some answers to help set the record straight.

1. In many parts of the world, women have diets that are far spicier than the average American diet. Don't blame your diet if your baby is gassy or fussy. Gas is a natural part of the digestion process, and babies are no exception.

2. The myth that frequent nursing leads to poor milk production couldn't be farther from the truth. Milk supply increases when a healthy baby is allowed to nurse as often as she indicates the need.

3. It is impossible to generalize about sleep, because each baby is different. Some breastfed babies sleep much better than formula-fed babies and vice versa.

4. Formula and breastmilk are not the same. A mother's milk has all the nutrients a baby needs, and it can't be replicated in a lab. Formulas are inexact copies of breastmilk that don't contain antibodies, living cells, enzymes, or hormones. A woman's breastmilk is made as required to suit her own baby.

Whether you are expecting a baby, have a child, or want to get information to share with a friend or family member, you can contact the University of Michigan Women's Health Resource Center for more information about breastfeeding. Just call (734) 936-8886.