Baby Feeding: A Little Info on Baby Bottles

There are few things that could melt and soften someone’s heart, and babies are surely at the top of the list. And this ‘state of melting’ becomes even bigger when having a baby of your own. Holding your little bundle of joy is like holding the whole world in your hands. This love is immense and indescribable, making you want to do the impossible.

Wanting the best for them is something understandable, it’s a natural state that isn’t strange to parents. That being said, wanting your child to grow strong and healthy is top priority, and ensuring that from the very first day of his life is a parent’s mission. One of the first and simplest things you can do to achieve this is to invest in the right baby feeding accessories.

What Feeding Supplies Do You Need for Baby?

baby feeding supplies on table
source: simply-nicole.com

Out of all types of baby essentials like clothes and swaddles, let’s not forget about baby bottles. Whether your little one is breastfed or on baby formula, in both cases you’ll need to own quality baby bottles with the help of which you can feed your little one. But with so many choices on the market, how are you supposed to choose the right one?! The first step is by considering the feeding bottle options.

Glass Vs. Plastic Feeding Bottles

The one thing all of us can agree on is that glass baby feeding supplies are a better and safer option. They aren’t treated with chemicals, and consequently, won’t leach any toxins in the baby milk even if hot. They’re extremely easy to clean and maintain and can withstand being exposed to high temperatures. The biggest downside is their weight and ability to break in case you drop them.

Even though some plastic bottles in the past did contain harmful chemicals like bisphenol or also known as BPA, nowadays, all plastic bottles coming from trusted and reliable brands are completely BPA-free. That being said, plastic baby bottles are also a safe option, but when compared to glass, they aren’t as long-lasting. On, the other hand, they’re lighter and shatterproof. As you can see, both of these beneficial baby feeding supplies are unique on their own, but only by weighing down their exact pros and cons will you be able to understand which is a better choice for your needs.

Types of Bottle Nipples

different types of baby bottle nipples close up
source: breastfeeding.support

The type and shape of the bottle nipple play a huge role in how well your baby will accept bottle feeding. You can choose from an array of baby bottle nipples ranging in shape, size and material, and thanks to this, you’ll be able to find the right fit your little one’s mouth. One thing is certain, by choosing the right baby bottle and nipple, you can reduce the chances of causing any discomfort to your bub, colic-wise. Along with some other things, you can easily settle your baby to sleep which is crucial for improving his sleep.

What Type of Bottles Were Used in Ancient Times?

Whether talking about Hellenistic, Roman or Etruscan baby bottles, in that time all of them resembled small beakers with a handle that was small enough to be held in the palm of the hand. Even though used as feeding bottles, these objects were also used to fill up oil lamps, while glass bottles in that time were considered to be vials for perfume.

What Types Were Used in the Modern Era?

baby looking up and drinking milk form bottle
source: news.com.au

It was in the 16th century when feeding bottles started being moulded just like a bottle. Slowly but surely, they’ve replaced the ancient designs and have ever since evolved a great deal. Usually, back then they were made from glass, wood and pewter where the receptacle part was tall with a low-flow pierced tip in the form of a nipple.

In order to prevent the baby from hurting his gums, a piece of fabric or sponge was placed on the tip. Over the years, the type, shape and used material for feeding bottles have changed a lot. Manufacturers have constantly improved their range in order to create the best and safest possible option for babies.

Interesting Facts about Breast Milk and Breastfeeding

  • Did you know that breast milk is a living substance full of live cells?! Yup, that’s right! This magic drink that women can create also contains stem cells that have the ability to become other body cell types like heart, brain, kidney and bone tissue.
  • The first milk also known as colostrum contains special proteins that protect your baby’s intestinal tract from harmful bacteria right from the start.
  • Breast milk contains antibodies, and live white blood cells that can help your little bundle of joy create a defence mechanism against infections. That way, you’ll help your baby improve his immune system naturally. Even though a lot of women fear breastfeeding their little ones when sick, it’s said that when the mother or the baby is sick, the amount of these cells and antibodies in the breast milk increases.
  • The smell and taste of breast milk can change depending on the type of food you eat. Thanks to this, you’ll help your little one be a less picky eater once you start introducing him to solids.
  • The amount of breast milk you can make isn’t related to the size of your breasts.
  • Mothers who breastfeed have a lower risk of developing breast cancer, heart disease, stroke, ovarian cancer, type 2 diabetes and postpartum depression.
  • While breastfeeding, your brain will release prolactin and oxytocin hormones which can help you reduce feelings of stress and anxiety while helping you bond better with your little one.