Abstract
Human milk is the gold standard for the nourishment of early infants because it contains several bioactive components that prove to be the best choice for infants. Breastfeeding has many health benefits for both the infant and the mother. This study aimed to identify the optimal duration of breastfeeding, to demonstrate its benefits, to list essential elements for infants, and to identify the risks associated with formula feeding. The World Health Organization (WHO) recommends early skin-to-skin contact and starting breastfeeding immediately after birth. The recommendations also included continuing breastfeeding for the first 6 months and continuing to feed infants until 2 years of age with complementary feeding. Breastfeeding is the best way to feed infants and provide them with the nutrition they need for growth and development. In Saudi Arabia, health policies recommend that medical staff should provide proper breastfeeding education to mothers. A study published by the WHO in 2006 showed that 92% of infants in Saudi Arabia received colostrum. Breastfed infants have better health outcomes and better intellectual and social lives than formula-fed infants. Exclusive breastfeeding for 6 months tends to be more protective in reducing the risk of certain diseases than breastfeeding for 4 months. In contrast, formula milk is associated with many diseases, such as allergies and premature breast development in girls.

Key words: breastfeeding, exclusive, formula, breast milk, cow milk