Struggle Care
72: “Breast is Best” is the Worst with Mallory Whitmore
Jan 15, 2024
In this episode, Mallory Whitmore, a passionate advocate for formula-feeding parents, discusses the origin of the phrase 'Breast is best' and its impact. They delve into the tragic history of formula marketing and how breastfeeding is often seen as the first failure in parenthood. Mallory also explores the skewed data behind 'Breast is best' and emphasizes the importance of a woman's bodily autonomy. They address the need for support and understanding between breastfeeding and formula feeding parents, focusing on breaking societal barriers and moral superiority.
44:28
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Quick takeaways
- The phrase 'breast is best' originated from unethical marketing practices of formula companies and has since evolved into a parental choice often associated with natural birth movements and attachment parenting.
- Breastfeeding ideology fails to respect a parent's bodily autonomy, and the pressure to breastfeed can deprive parents of the right to choose how to use their bodies, causing significant emotional tolls.
Deep dives
The Origins of 'Breast is Best'
The phrase 'breast is best' was popularized alongside the baby-friendly hospital initiative, aimed at increasing breastfeeding rates. The phrase originated from the unethical marketing practices of formula companies, which aggressively promoted formula as a nutritionally superior choice. The history includes unethical tactics such as distributing free samples in underserved areas or misleading marketing in developing countries with limited access to clean water. While breast is best initially aimed to counteract these practices and promote breastfeeding, it has since evolved into a parental choice, often associated with natural birth movements and attachment parenting.
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