[Alternative milks to human milk. Formula nutrition]. / I latti alternativi al latte materno. L'allattamento con formule.

ABSTRACT

PIP Substitution of breastfeeding with formula feeding has happened in the short period of a decade. This change was due mainly to profound modifications in social life and especially in family life, where the role and status of the mother/wife has drastically changed. Only now breastfeeding is enjoying a revival, after modern technology has amply demonstrated that maternal milk is the best nutrition for the first few months of life of the newborn. A mother should never be forced to breastfeed; she should simply be encouraged to do so. The important role which the pediatrician can play is self evident. Cow's milk cannot substitute maternal milk; when this is not available one of the commercially prepared, and rather expensive, formulas, are preferable during the first 4-6 months. Formulas must always be marketed with a clear indication of all their components, and with percentages of vitamins, proteins, minerals and fats. The composition of a follow-up formula, i.e. a formula to be used after 6 months of life, should be different than that given during the first months.^ieng