Can babies drink breast milk with high lipase?

Understanding High Lipase in Breast Milk
Breastfeeding is a natural and beneficial way to nourish infants, but some mothers may encounter a condition known as high lipase in their breast milk. This phenomenon can lead to changes in the milk’s taste and smell, potentially causing babies to refuse it. Understanding what high lipase is and how it affects breast milk can help mothers navigate this challenge.
What is High Lipase?
Lipase is an enzyme that plays a crucial role in the digestion of fats. In breast milk, lipase helps break down the fat content, making it easier for babies to digest. However, when lipase levels are excessively high, it can lead to the milk developing a soapy or metallic taste after being stored, particularly if it has been refrigerated or frozen. This change in flavor can be off-putting for some infants, leading to refusal to drink the milk.
Can Babies Drink High Lipase Milk?
Yes, babies can drink breast milk with high lipase. The presence of high lipase does not make the milk harmful; rather, it alters the taste. Many babies will still accept high lipase milk without issue, while others may reject it due to the flavor change. If a mother suspects her milk has high lipase, she might notice that her baby refuses to drink pumped milk, especially if it smells or tastes different.
Managing High Lipase Milk
For mothers who find that their baby is rejecting high lipase milk, there are several strategies to consider. One effective method is scalding the milk before storing it. This process involves heating the milk to about 180°F (82°C) for a few minutes and then cooling it quickly before freezing or refrigerating. Scalding can deactivate the lipase enzyme, preventing the milk from developing the undesirable taste.
Additionally, mothers can experiment with different storage methods or try to introduce the milk in smaller amounts to see if the baby will accept it. If a baby is particularly sensitive to the taste, it may take some trial and error to find a solution that works.
Conclusion
In summary, while high lipase in breast milk can lead to changes in taste that some babies may find unappealing, it does not pose a health risk. Mothers can take proactive steps to manage high lipase milk, ensuring that their babies continue to receive the benefits of breast milk. Understanding this condition can empower mothers to make informed decisions about their breastfeeding journey.

How long does lipase stay in breastmilk?

If you do have excess lipase activity in your breast milk, you might notice a difference in its smell and taste about 12 to 14 hours after pumping and storing, although others might not notice changes until days later. Some possible changes include: Milk that has a soapy smell or taste.

Is milk high in lipase bad for babies?

Is High Lipase Milk Dangerous to Your Baby? Dr. Chang points out that while excess lipase can change the taste of the milk, it does not make it harmful to the baby. In fact, it may even have benefits for your milk.

What does lipase do for babies?

Lipase is an important enzyme that helps your baby break down breast milk so that they can digest and absorb the essential nutrients contained in it. Everyone produces lipase. This enzyme is normally produced in the pancreas but has also been found in the digestive tract of newborn babies.

Is lipase safe for breastfeeding?

High Lipase Milk is Safe
The odor might be mild, or it might be pretty strong and unpleasant. It is actually harmless though. It’s perfectly safe to use this milk to feed your baby.

How to lower lipase levels in breast milk?

Fortunately, lipase can be inactivated at high temperatures, and milk can be safely stored in the fridge or freezer. Milk must be scalded before freezing, as lipase is still active even at low temperatures.

What disqualifies you from donating breast milk?

You may be disqualified from donating breast milk if you: Have or are being treated for HIV, HTLV (human T-cell leukemia virus), hepatitis B or C, or syphilis. Have a sexual partner who is at risk for HIV, HTLV, hepatitis B or C, or syphilis. Have used recreational drugs within the last year.

What happens if a baby drinks bad breast milk?

Can babies get sick from old breast milk? If your baby has had spoiled breast milk, they’ll likely let you know. They may throw up, or have an upset stomach, diarrhea or fever. It’s important to call your pediatrician if you think your baby may be sick from having spoiled breast milk.

Can you sell breast milk with high lipase?

Yes! We will happily accept your high lipase milk, as will our recipient babies. Lipase is destroyed during our pasteurization process.

How to lower lipase levels?

How to lower lipase levels

1. intravenous fluids.
2. medications to manage pain.
3. not eating for a recommended period and then starting a bland diet.

What happens if lipase is too high?

Higher than normal levels of lipase mean that you have a problem with your pancreas. If your blood has 3 to 10 times the normal level of lipase, then it’s likely that you have acute pancreatitis. High lipase levels also mean you may have kidney failure, cirrhosis, or a bowel problem.