Can I donate breastmilk with high lipase?

Understanding High Lipase in Breast Milk
Breast milk is often referred to as “liquid gold,” but for some mothers, the presence of high lipase can complicate the journey of breastfeeding and milk donation. Lipase is an enzyme that helps break down fats in breast milk, and while it plays a crucial role in digestion, high levels can alter the milk’s taste and smell, leading to rejection by infants.
Mothers who notice a soapy or metallic taste in their stored milk may be experiencing high lipase activity. This can occur after milk has been refrigerated or frozen, causing it to develop an off-putting flavor that some babies refuse to drink.
Can You Donate Milk with High Lipase?
The short answer is yes, you can donate breast milk that has high lipase. Many milk banks and informal milk-sharing networks accept milk with high lipase, as it is still nutritious and safe for consumption. However, it’s essential to understand that the taste and smell may deter some babies from consuming it, which is why it’s crucial to communicate this characteristic when donating.
Some mothers have successfully donated their high lipase milk after taking steps to manage its taste. For instance, scalding the milk before freezing can deactivate the lipase enzyme, preventing the development of the soapy taste. This method allows the milk to retain its nutritional value while making it more palatable for infants.
The Donation Process
If you are considering donating your high lipase milk, here are some steps to follow:
1. Contact a Milk Bank: Reach out to local milk banks or community sharing networks to inquire about their policies regarding high lipase milk. Each organization may have different guidelines, so it’s important to clarify any concerns you have.
2. Test Your Milk: Before donating, taste your milk after it has been stored. If it has developed an off flavor, inform the receiving organization. Transparency is key to ensuring that the milk is suitable for the intended recipients.
3. Consider Scalding: If you want to improve the taste of your milk, consider scalding it before freezing. This process involves heating the milk to a temperature that deactivates lipase, which can help preserve its flavor.
4. Share Your Experience: Many mothers have shared their journeys of donating high lipase milk, emphasizing the importance of community support and understanding. Engaging with others who have faced similar challenges can provide encouragement and practical tips.
Conclusion
Donating breast milk with high lipase is not only possible but can also be a generous way to support other infants in need. By understanding the characteristics of your milk and taking proactive steps to manage its taste, you can contribute to the health and well-being of other babies while navigating your own breastfeeding journey. Remember, your milk is still valuable, and sharing it can make a significant difference in someone else’s life.

Is high lipase milk genetic?

It’s mostly genetic and can vary from baby to baby. If you do have high lipase, it’s important to inactivate the lipase IF your baby is sensitive to the smell and taste. Some babies aren’t affected! If you naturally have high lipase milk, you can’t prevent it from happening.

What are the requirements for donating breast milk?

Who Can Donate Breast Milk?

• Be in general good health.
• Undergo a free blood test.
• Provide at least 200 ounces of breast milk within a 6-month period.

What to do with high lipase breast milk?

Mixing half stored milk with half freshly pumped or expressed milk might satisfy your baby since the soapy or metallic taste will be less strong. Scald your pumped milk. Scalding your breast milk might reduce the flavor and smell changes associated with high lipase breast milk.

Who should not donate milk?

You should never donate breast milk if any of the following applies: You have ever tested positive for HTLV, Hepatitis B or C, or syphilis. You have not been tested yet but think you might have HTLV, Hepatitis B or C, or syphilis. You are HIV positive.

How can I lower my lipase level quickly?

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 do they test for when you donate breast milk?

Also the labs must be done at least eight days after the procedure. In addition, milk banks serologically screen potential donors for HIV-1, HIV-2, human T-lymphotropic virus (HTLV), Hepatitis C, Hepatitis B surface antigen and syphilis no more than six months prior to the first donation.

Can high lipase milk be donated?

Secondly, some moms’ milk smells like it has excess lipase in it, yet it can be remedied when mom stops taking Omega 3 supplements. If your milk truly has excess lipase, while your idea to donate your milk is a wonderful one, there is a chance your babies might actually still take your milk.

Can you get a tax write-off for donating breast milk?

Is my donation tax-deductible? The IRS does not allow a deduction for any kind of human tissue. You can deduct the cost of your breast pump and bags if you purchased them yourself.

Does freeze-drying breast milk help with high lipase?

Lipase can cause soapy or sour tasting breast milk. This can lead to babies refusing frozen breast milk. Freeze-drying inactivates the lipase enzyme that stays active during regular freezing storage, potentially reducing this problem for breast feeding moms.

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.