The Unique Benefits of Breast Milk Compared to Other Types of Milk. By Dr. Narmin Azizova
Breast milk is uniquely designed to meet a baby’s nutritional needs and offers numerous health benefits that animal milk and formula cannot fully replicate. The table below highlights key differences between breast milk, animal milk, and formula:
| Component | Breast Milk | Animal Milk | Infant Formula |
| Bacteria | Free from harmful bacteria | May contain bacteria | Can become contaminated during preparation |
| Protective Factors Against Infections | Contains antibodies and immune-boosting components | Absent | Absent |
| Growth Factors | Present, supporting healthy development | Absent | Absent |
| Protein Content | In the right amount for a baby’s needs; easily digestible | High amount; difficult to digest | Adjusted, but not identical to breast milk |
| Fat | Rich in essential fatty acids; contains digestive enzymes for better absorption | Lacks essential fatty acids and digestive enzymes | Lacks essential fatty acids and digestive enzymes |
| Iron | Present in small amounts but highly absorbable | Present in small amounts but poorly absorbed | Added, but absorption is not as efficient as in breast milk |
| Vitamins | Naturally balanced, meeting a baby’s needs | Often lacks sufficient vitamins A and C | Added during production |
| Water Content | Provides adequate hydration, no extra water needed | Requires additional water supplementation | May require additional water |
Additional Notes:
- Breast milk is naturally tailored for infants, reducing the risk of allergies and digestive issues.
- It contains live immune cells, hormones, and enzymes that promote overall health and development.
- The World Health Organization (WHO) recommends exclusive breastfeeding for the first six months of life and continued breastfeeding alongside complementary foods for at least two years.