Feeding your baby is one of the most important tasks you will perform as a new mother. The nutrition you give your baby now will have an effect on the rest of his or her life.
You may decide to breastfeed your baby. This is probably the best nutrition you can provide. The baby receives more than just breast milk from you. He or she will also receive important nutrients, antibodies to help prevent infections and other substances important for growth and development. However, if you choose to bottlefeed— as the majority of new mothers still do—you can still provide good nutrition for your baby. You just have to be aware of the various nutrients that different formulas provide.
This chapter provides information to help you give your baby the best start nutritionally you can. If you have questions about a particular topic, discuss them with your obstetrician or your baby's pediatrician. Work together as a team in this important undertaking.
