Breast Milk, Cow’s Milk & the Strength That Often Goes Unseen

By Gugapriya  I’m not a mom but I’ve had the privilege of closely observing the journey of many friends, sisters, colleagues as they stepped into motherhood. One thing that really stayed with me was how something as simple as feeding a baby can feel so emotional and complicated. Behind every feeding decision, whether to breastfeed, use formula or consider cow’s milk, there’s often a mix of pressure, advice, mom-guilt and countless sleepless nights. What especially caught my attention was the confusion many new moms face when elders suggest cow’s milk early on even though doctors strongly advise waiting until after the baby’s first birthday. That curiosity made me want to learn more not just the facts, but what it’s really like for people living through it.

Cow’s milk isn’t recommended for babies under 12 months because their kidneys are still maturing and can’t handle the high levels of protein and minerals. It also lacks key nutrients like iron, may irritate the digestive system and can interfere with iron absorption increasing the risk of anemia.

While both cow’s milk and breast milk contain relatively low amounts of iron, the form found in breast milk is much more easily absorbed by a baby’s body. That’s why it’s still considered safe and effective, especially when paired with iron-rich foods after six months of age. Cow’s milk, on the other hand, can actually lead to iron deficiency anemia and other imbalances if given too early.It is suggested that once a baby turns one, whole cow’s milk can be introduced slowly by mixing it with breast milk or formula (never water).

 [Disclaimer: This is general guidance and may not apply to every child. Always consult your pediatrician before making any changes to your baby’s feeding routine, especially if there are allergy risks or digestive concerns.]

Until then, breast milk or iron-fortified formula remains the most nourishing and safe option. Breast milk in particular, is an incredible source of natural immunity helping to protect babies from allergies, eczema, ear infections, digestive issues and even reducing long-term risks like obesity and diabetes and it supports moms too: breastfeeding has been linked to lower risks of breast and ovarian cancers, type 2 diabetes and helps many moms with postpartum weight loss.

Feeding isn’t just about what’s in the bottle. It’s deeply tied to a mother’s time, energy and emotions.

Feeding routines really do shape how the entire day unfolds. Some babies nurse every hour while others take longer breaks. Moms sneak in naps when they can or express milk so someone else can help. When moms start pumping, learning how to store breast milk becomes part of the process.

           Four hours out at room temperature if it hasn’t been touched, just one to two hours if the baby has had a sip, could be stored 24 hours in the fridge, or even three months in the freezer. But once it’s warmed and offered, it needs to be used within two hours —NO REFREEZING.

 What seems like a small routine is actually a powerful act of love, patience and the quiet strength only a mother has.

Yeah, not all moms could breastfeed and that doesn’t make them any less of a mother. Whether it’s due to low supply or simply personal choice. Some moms turn to formula. Today formulas are carefully developed to be safe, nourishing and supportive of a baby’s growth. While regular cow’s milk isn’t right for babies, it’s often turned into formula but only after it’s carefully modified. It’s made gentler to digest and boosted with nutrients like iron, DHA and vitamins that babies need.

I’ve seen how much thought and emotion goes into every feeding choice. It’s not always easy, there are lot of trials and errors, but love is constant.

Whether it’s breastfeeding, switching to formula or introducing cow’s milk after one. Every drop is given with care and intention. Watching this journey has made me admire moms even more.

EVERY MOM’S FEEDING JOURNEY IS UNIQUE AND IT’S ABOUT CHOOSING WHAT’S BEST FOR YOU AND YOUR BABY.

Source:

In a 2012 ,study published in the Indian Journal of Public Health, Researchers Mayuri Gandhi, Shweta Khandelwal and team examined how Indian families introduce cow and buffalo milk to infants.

 They found that many babies are fed bovine milk (milk that comes from cows, buffaloes or other cattle) as early as 3 months, despite health guidelines.
 

70% of families boiled milk improperly and nearly half stored it at room temperature.
 

Most parents also added sugar, water ,spices to the milk reducing its nutritional value.

Healthcare professionals interviewed in the study strongly advised against early bovine milk, warning of risks like malnutrition, infections and anemia. They also emphasized the need for better parental education on safe feeding practices and recommended exclusive breastfeeding for the first 6 months.