Breast vs. Bottle

FitBump Breastmilk Screening 10 15 14 InviteAs a society and generation of mothers who have adopted the “breast is best” philosophy on feeding babies, there are still many questions—and controversy—surrounding the breastfeeding versus bottle debate.

The recently-released documentary “Breastmilk,” directed by Dana Ben-Ari, is a candid exploration of issues relating to breast feeding and the importance of breast milk. Through honest and revealing interviews, the film follows the lives of several mothers for the entire first year of their baby’s life. The women speak frankly about their emotional and physical struggles, as they embrace the joys—and grapple with the challenges– of breastfeeding their infants.

We have long been told that breast milk is better — for babies’ nutrition, health, development and well-being. Yet there are still very few women who succeed in breastfeeding exclusively for the recommended six months and beyond. We scientifically understand that breast milk contains live cells, digestive enzymes, and immune/antibody factors beneficial to the health of a growing baby. And there are emotional benefits: Baby’s eye-contact with mother and the calming and soothing effects for both baby and mother through the release of the oxytocin hormone.

During pregnancy, many mothers-to-be intend to exclusively breast feed their infant after giving birth. But often they realize that nursing is time-consuming. They are uncertain about their milk supply or whether the baby is consuming enough. They worry about their jobs and relationships with partners. Some are concerned about social norms, insecure to nurse in public. These misgivings often lead them to supplement with packaged baby formula.

Ultimately, we continue to ask questions. Do breast-fed babies have a stronger maternal bond, grow into healthier adults, or have higher IQs?

 

“This film is incredibly informational,” says Kira Kohrherr, founder of FitBump, a pregnancy fitness wear retailer and on-line editorial website for moms-to-be. “It is a conversation-starter about a controversial hot topic.” Kohrherr recently hosted a screening of the film and panel discussion about breastfeeding issues, including experts in the areas of lactation, acupuncture, and childbirth.

 

The film’s executive producers Ricki Lake and Abby Epstein also collaborated in 2008 on “The Business of Being Born,” which explores the contemporary experience of childbirth, including midwifery, natural births, home births, water births, and the healthcare economics of childbirth.

For more info on “Breastmilk,” visit breastmilkthemovie.com!

 

 

 

 

Relevant Directory Listings

See More

The Club of Riverdale

<p>With specialized camps for kids, we zero in on your child's favorite activites, such as tennis camp and golf camp. We offer a wide range of sports, games, and activities, staffed by pros and passionate coaches.</p>

Fieldston Summer Camps

<p>Fieldston Summer Camps provide a fun, eventful summer for all ages. Fieldston Outdoors, Fieldston Sports Camp, Fieldston Premier Sports, Fieldston Future Leaders Camp, Fieldston Emerging Leaders Camp, and Fieldston Expeditions Camp are comprehensive programs covering a spectrum of subjects and interests designed to engage campers. Our programs and classes range from outdoor adventure to educational, sports, and STEAM programs. All camps are held at our campus in Riverdale, with the exception of Fieldston Expeditions Camp, which takes place at locations across the country.</p> <p> </p>

Broadway Dance Center Children and Teens

<p dir="ltr">With more than 35 years of experience, Broadway Dance Center Children & Teens provides young movers ages 3-18 with exceptional training. BDC delivers the finest all-around dance experience for students by offering a wide variety of styles and levels, performance opportunities, and the highest caliber dance instruction that only New York City and BDC Children & Teens can provide.</p> <p dir="ltr">This studio is so much more than a training course for young dancers; it is a diverse, family-friendly community for budding creatives. It has an exemplary faculty who follow the vision to not only develop a dancer’s love and ability in dance, but to do so in a nurturing and supportive way.</p> <p style="text-align: left;"><span id="docs-internal-guid-16583089-7fff-d8a9-61c2-8f689f7348b2"></span></p>