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breastfeeding benefits

IFC Response to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's 2011 Vital Signs Report

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International Formula Council* (IFC) supports breastfeeding as the ideal choice for infant feeding. IFC also supports the right of parents to choose the feeding option for their baby that best fits their individual family situation.  For those mothers who cannot or choose not to breastfeed, infant formula is the only safe, nutritious, and recommended alternative.

IFC Commentary on Bartick and Reinhold 2011

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This commentary is in response to the article by Bartick and Reinhold, "The Burden of Suboptimal Breastfeeding in the United States: A Pediatric Cost Analysis." 1 The International Formula Council* supports the position of the World Health Organization, the American Academy of Pediatrics and other organizations that breastfeeding is ideal and offers specific child and maternal benefits. However, we have several major concerns about the methodology and assumptions underpinning this analysis:

IFC Comments on the Report of the White House Task Force on Childhood Obesity

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The International Formula Council (IFC) and its member companies applaud the White House Task Force on Childhood Obesity for addressing this important issue.

We support many of the recommendations made by the Obesity Task Force in its report "
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    • IFC Comments on the April 2010 Pediatrics Article “The Burden of Suboptimal Breastfeeding in the United States: A Pediatric Cost Analysis”

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    An April 2010 article published in the journal Pediatrics suggests if 90% of U.S. mothers were to exclusively breastfeed for six months, the U.S. would save $13 billion per year.1 The International Formula Council* (IFC) believes breastfeeding is ideal and offers specific child and maternal benefits.  However, we believe this study’s economic analysis misrepresents the data and fails to take into account certain factors, such as costs associated with breastfeeding at work.  

    Study on Exclusive Breastfeeding and Long-Term Effects

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    A study published in the October 2009 edition of the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition (AJCN) by Dr. Michael Kramer et al.

    FAQs

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    Following are frequent questions and answers on infant formula, breastfeeding, and related nutrition topics.

    Cultural Support and Acceptance for Whatever Feeding Method You Choose

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    Besides returning to work and participation in the WIC program, a woman’s cultural support system, including her parents, extended family and friends, has been shown to be an influential factor that affects breast feeding duration. Studies have shown that women who initiate breastfeeding at birth have success based on encouragement from parents and relatives. Likewise, a lack of emotional support has been cited as a reason for early termination of breastfeeding.

    Breastfeeding Health Benefits

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    A review of the scientific literature finds support for the benefits of breast milk, especially regarding the possible effects in reducing the incidence of:

    • diarrhea
    • respiratory infections
    • ear infections

    However, for chronic illnesses such as cardiovascular disease, diabetes and obesity, environmental and genetic factors play a significant role in disease development.

    For Health Professionals

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    This section provides information for health professionals regarding infant nutrition including important safety steps when preparing infant formula.