Breastfeeding is considered superior to formula feeding due to numerous benefits for both mother and child. These advantages encompass nutrition, immunity, bonding, and economics.

1. Optimal Nutrition: Breast milk is nature's perfect baby food. It contains all the nutrients a baby needs for the first six months of life, in all the right proportions. Its composition even changes according to the baby's changing needs, especially during the first month of life. On the other hand, formula is made from cow's milk and other ingredients, which may not be as easily digested or as well suited to a baby's needs.
2. Immune System Support: Breast milk is packed with antibodies, particularly Immunoglobulin A, which builds a protective layer in the baby’s nose, throat, and digestive system. This is not available in formula milk. As a result, breastfed infants are less likely to have ear infections, diarrhea, respiratory illnesses, and bouts of vomiting. They also have better defense against allergies, asthma, diabetes, obesity, and sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS).
3. Hormonal Benefits & Digestive Health: Breast milk has hormones and the right amount of protein that promote the maturation of a newborn's immature intestine, reducing the incidence of intestinal upset and constipation that formula-fed babies often encounter. Also, colostrum, the first milk mothers produce, acts as a laxative to help the baby pass the first stool, which decreases the risk of jaundice.
4. Mother-Child Bonding: The act of breastfeeding is an intimate physical and emotional connection between mother and baby. The skin-to-skin contact can enhance the emotional bond, promote a sense of security, and soothe an upset baby. While formula feeding can still provide opportunities for close interaction, it doesn't offer the same skin-to-skin contact as breastfeeding.
5. Mother's Health: Women who breastfeed have a lower risk of postpartum depression, type 2 diabetes, and certain cancers like breast and ovarian cancer. It can also serve as a natural method of birth control (98% protection in the first six months after birth).
6. Convenience and Economical: Breast milk is readily available and always at the right temperature. No need to run to the store or heat a bottle in the middle of the night. Additionally, formula can be costly, and over time, the cost can be substantial. Breastfeeding, on the other hand, is economically efficient as it requires minimal additional calories for the mother.
7. Environment Friendly: Breastfeeding is also more environmentally friendly as it does not require manufacturing, packaging or shipping, unlike formula milk which leaves a carbon footprint.
8. Adaptability: Lastly, a mother’s milk evolves to meet the changing needs of the baby. As the baby grows, the composition of the breast milk changes to adapt to the baby's nutritional needs. Formula milk doesn't have this adaptability.

Despite these benefits, it's important to note that some mothers might be unable to breastfeed due to medical reasons, and many others choose not to for personal reasons. In such situations, formula milk provides a viable alternative, ensuring that babies receive the nutrients they need to grow and thrive. Breastfeeding is a personal decision, and what's most important is that the baby is well-nourished, loved, and cared for.