the infant. Commercial milk formulas try to come as close as possible to breast milk, however, there are certain ingredients that only humans can impart to the milk. Breast milk is so nourishing that it may be used as the only source of nutrition for the first six months of life. After six months, the infant's diet needs to be supplemented with iron-rich infant foods.

In comparison with cows' milk formula, breast milk is best suited for babies because it is easily digested. This is evidenced in breast-fed babies requiring less burping, bringing up less, with finer curds as opposed to large curds brought up with formulas. Breast-fed babies have regular bowel habits as opposed to constipation or bouts of constipation and diarrhoea which can occur with cows' milk formulas. The fat in breast milk is better absorbed. This fat is important in the development of the brain. The bones and teeth receive a better calcium to phosphorous ratio in breast milk than in cows' milk formula.

Also, the protein levels in breast milk is better suited for the human baby.

Breast milk protects against food allergies and helps to prevent infections because it contains antibacterial and anti-viral factors. The cows' milk or the commercial milk formulas cannot boast these same benefits.

There is less overfeeding with breast-feeding. When the infant has had enough to drink, he simply stops nursing. This reinforces the habit of only eating in response to hunger. This can have a positive affect on the child's weight later in life. Please note that even with the recommended flexible self-demanding feeding schedule, the infant will tend not to overfeed.

There is also less chance of the infant underfeeding with the flexible self-demand feeding schedule. As the infant matures, the breast milk changes in consistency and amount according to the infant's needs. Mom can usually know whether the infant is receiving enough if the infant has wet diapers daily, less with disposable diapers. This can be re-confirmed by monthly weight checks at the doctor's office indicating a pound weight gain per month for a healthy baby.

Finally, and most importantly, the close bond established between the infant and mom helps in forming a close, loving and lasting relationship which may influence future relationships.

The benefits to the mother include economical advantages. Breast milk costs nothing. A little time, skill and a nutritious eating plan of 500 extra calories daily are the only trade offs. The extra nutritious calories are needed to provide energy in the manufacture of breast milk.

The process of breast-feeding triggers hormones in the mother's body to assist in getting back to the pre-pregnancy size.

Mother does not have to fuss with bottles or nipples, mixing, chilling or heating formulas, as breast milk comes in its own convenient package, the right temperature, unspoiled, at the right amount, on time every time.

Travelling is a breeze as there is no worry about running out of formula or locating or buying the same formula. Earaches are minimised when the infant is allowed to breast-feed when the aircraft ascends and descends.

Minor problems encountered during breast-feeding may include sore nipples, which can be prevented with the preparation of the breast during pregnancy as well as the correct positioning of infant at the breast while nursing, in addition to breaking the suction of the infant when removing from the breast.

Breast feeding in public can be very discreet if you wear clothing which can be raised from the waist or by draping a nice receiving blanket over the shoulder. Returning to work need not be a problem, as a determined mom can extract milk by hand or pump, to be left with the sitter. Breast milk can be kept in the refrigerator for 24 to 48 hours and frozen for about six months.

For more support with breast-feeding, contact the Health Visitor, the Government Nutritionists, the Breast feeding Resource Centre or the La Lech League. Melonie Branco, Nutritionist, Department of Health.