Mother's Milk vs. Cow's Milk: Dr. Imran S. Patel's Expert Advice

When it comes to feeding your baby, selecting suitable milk is critical to their health and growth. Dr. Imran S. Patel, a well-known health specialist, explains why breast milk beats cow's milk for babies in their first few months.

Why You Shouldn't Give Cow's Milk to Babies Under One Year?

Dr. Patel advises that you should wait until your baby turns one year before giving them cow's milk. Here's why:

1. Higher Protein Content

Cow's milk has more protein than mother's milk. Protein matters, but too much of it in cow's milk can put pressure on a baby's growing kidneys. These organs aren't ready yet to deal with all that extra protein.

2. Low Iron Bioavailability

The body doesn't absorb iron from cow's milk as it does from mother's milk. The iron in cow milk has low bioavailability, which can cause babies who drink it to become anemic due to lack of iron. However, the bioavailability of iron in mother milk is almost 80%, making it better at stopping iron shortages.

3. Wrong Whey to Casein Ratio

A mom's milk has the right whey-to-casein balance, which helps a baby digest well. Cow's milk though, has a different mix that's not as good for babies, and it can be harmful for their tummies.

4. Too Much Sodium and Potassium

Cow's milk has 3 to 4 times more sodium and potassium than mom's milk. This high amount can harm baby's growing kidneys. Also, more sodium and potassium mean the baby needs more water, which puts extra work on their kidneys.

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Nature has designed breast milk to provide babies with all the nutrients they need in their first six months. It contains the right protein iron that's easy to absorb, a good balance of protein, and safe amounts of sodium and potassium. Because of this, Dr. Imran S. Patel suggests giving your baby breast milk in the early months to help them grow healthy and strong.

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