Why is breastfeeding better than formula?

This statement is supported by a number of observational studies and meta-analyses showing that breastfeeding is associated with higher intelligence levels and better cognitive outcomes in children.

Neuroplasticity and lipid composition. The child's brain grows intensively in the first years of life—especially the myelin sheath of neurons, which ensures the speed of nerve impulse transmission, is actively formed.

Breast milk contains long-chain polyunsaturated fatty acids (LC-PUFA)—docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) and arachidonic acid (AA). They are part of the structure of neuronal cell membranes and play a key role in synaptic transmission.

Formulas often contain only limited amounts of these acids or less bioavailable forms.

Growth factors and signaling peptides. Neurotrophic factors are present in breast milk—such as nerve growth factor (NGF) and brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF). They regulate the development of dendrites and axons, support neuron survival, and stimulate neurogenesis.

Formulas do not contain such biologically active proteins, as they are destroyed during industrial processing.

Immunomodulatory components. Immunoglobulins, lactoferrin, oligosaccharides, and probiotic bacteria in breast milk protect the intestine and reduce systemic inflammation levels. Chronic inflammation—even in mild form—impairs cognitive development by affecting the hippocampus and prefrontal cortex.

Metabolic regulation. Breast milk adapts to the child's needs: its composition changes depending on the stage of lactation and the time of day. This ensures a more stable level of glucose and amino acids in the blood, which is important for neuron energy.

Formulas, on the other hand, have a fixed composition and do not adjust to sleep phases, growth, and brain load.

Epigenetic effects. Some components of breast milk, such as microRNAs and exosomes, regulate the expression of genes related to brain development, neuroplasticity, and cognitive functions. This area has been actively studied in recent years, and it is through epigenetic mechanisms that the long-term effect of breastfeeding on intelligence and behavior is explained.

Emotional-hormonal factor. The act of breastfeeding itself is a close skin-to-skin contact accompanied by the release of oxytocin in the mother and child. This hormone creates a sense of security, promotes attachment development, and regulates the formation of stress responses, which also reflects on cognitive functions in the future.

Thus, the higher IQ in breastfed children is determined not only by nutrients but also by the complex influence of molecules, hormones, microbiota, and epigenetic factors, which synthetic formulas are currently unable to fully replicate.