By Maria Alexis Rodrigo

The majority compute the cost of baby formula as the sum of the cost of formula, feeding bottles, and artificial nipples. Not to mention the cost of sterilizing and storing all these baby formula supplies. But there is a hidden cost of baby formula on children’’s health.

Children who are formula-fed have increased risks for certain diseases than children who have been breastfed. These risks mean increased costs to families and societies in terms of greater medical care, medicines, hospitalization costs, and lost time at work because parents have to stay with the sick child. More illnesses may also impede a child’’s growth and proper development.