For a newborn with cleft lip/palate, which feeding approach is typically preferred when possible?

• A. Breast milk
• B. Cow's milk formula
• C. Solid foods
• D. Water

Answer: (A)

Breast milk is the preferred feeding option for a newborn with cleft lip/palate when possible because it provides optimal nutrition in a form that is easiest to digest and carries immune-protective factors that help protect against infections. Infants with cleft lip/palate often feed with adjustments or special nipples/bottle technique, but many can still be fed effectively from the breast or with expressed breast milk delivered via an appropriate feeding method. If breastfeeding isn’t feasible, expressed breast milk remains the next best choice, with formula as an alternative if necessary. Water and solid foods are not appropriate for a newborn’s initial feeds.