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Can I give my 4 month old breast milk popsicles?

Introduction
As parents seek innovative ways to soothe their teething babies, the idea of breast milk popsicles has gained popularity. The question arises: Can I give my 4-month-old breast milk popsicles? Let’s explore the safety, benefits, and considerations surrounding this trend.
Safety Concerns
When it comes to feeding infants, safety is paramount. The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recommends exclusive breastfeeding for the first six months of life, which aligns with the age of your four-month-old. However, introducing frozen breast milk in the form of popsicles is not inherently unsafe, provided certain guidelines are followed.
1. Ingredients: Ensure that the popsicles are made solely from breast milk. Avoid adding any sweeteners or other ingredients that could pose a risk.

2. Choking Hazards: It’s essential to consider the size and texture of the popsicle. Small pieces may break off and pose a choking hazard. Using popsicle molds designed for infants can help mitigate this risk.
3. Temperature: Cold items can soothe sore gums, but ensure that the popsicles are not too cold to avoid discomfort or potential harm to sensitive gums.
Benefits of Breast Milk Popsicles
Breast milk popsicles can serve several purposes for your baby:
– Teething Relief: The cold temperature can help numb the gums, providing relief during the teething process, which often begins around this age.

– Hydration: While breast milk is the primary source of nutrition, introducing popsicles can help keep your baby hydrated, especially during hot weather.
– Sensory Exploration: The texture and temperature of popsicles can provide a new sensory experience for your child, aiding in their development.
How to Make Breast Milk Popsicles
Creating breast milk popsicles is a straightforward process. Here’s a simple method:
1. Collect Breast Milk: Use freshly expressed or previously frozen breast milk. Ensure to thaw any frozen milk safely in the refrigerator.
2. Pour into Molds: Fill infant-friendly popsicle molds with breast milk.
3. Freeze: Place the molds in the freezer and allow them to freeze completely, usually for several hours.
4. Serve: Once frozen, you can offer a popsicle to your baby while supervising them to ensure safety.
Conclusion
In conclusion, giving your 4-month-old breast milk popsicles can be a safe and beneficial practice when done with caution. Always prioritize safety by ensuring the popsicles are free from additives and are served in a manner that minimizes choking risks. As with any new food introduction, it’s wise to consult with your pediatrician to address any specific concerns or questions you may have. Enjoy this delightful and soothing treat for your little one!

Can a 4 month old have popsicles?

  • Age : It’s generally recommended to wait until a baby is at least 6 months old before introducing any frozen treats.
  • Ingredients : Make sure the popsicles are made from wholesome ingredients.
  • Choking Hazard : Ensure that the popsicle is not too large or hard, as this can pose a choking risk.

Can I freeze breast milk for a teething baby?

Put breastmilk, purees, juices or others to baby food freezer tray to freeze, then put the frozen pieces into feeder pacifier, and you will get a frozen popsicle, great for baby teething relief.

What can 4 month old babies drink?

Continue to use breast milk or infant formula as the main drink until 12 months. If using formula, choose first infant formula. Small amounts of pasteurised full fat cow’s milk can be used to prepare weaning foods from 6 months onwards. Cow’s milk should not be your child’s main milk drink until they are 1 year old.

Can I give my 4 month old frozen breast milk popsicles?

Breastmilk or formula popsicles can be an exciting sensory experience while offering age-appropriate nutrition at the 4-month mark. It’s also a great way to practice self-feeding before transitioning to solids (at 6 months + showing signs of readiness).

Can I give my 4 month old ice for teething?

Do not use an icepack! Those are filled with harmful chemicals that are poisonous to ingest. The best way we have found is to freeze a washcloth for about half an hour. Let your child chew on it.

What are the benefits of breast milk at 4 months?

3 to 4 Months
By breastfeeding, you are providing him the best protection during this vulnerable time. If you get a cold, it is essential to keep giving your baby breastmilk. Antibodies and anti-viruses that your body makes to protect yourself will get passed through your milk to help protect him too.

Can I give my 4 month old frozen colostrum?

Yes, frozen colostrum does help a sick baby. Research studies have proven that sick or preterm infants who take colostrum from mothers have “significantly better health outcomes”. Colostrum is made up of immune factors, protein, sugar, and facts. Therefore, every drop counts!

When can I give my baby frozen breast milk?

Frozen breast milk should be used within 3 months if it is stored in the freezer compartment of a refrigerator. Milk stored in a deep freezer is good for 6 months. Remember to label the breast milk with the date that you pumped it. Thaw milk in the refrigerator or in warm water just before feeding.

Can 4 month old drink cold breast milk?

Breast milk does not need to be warmed. It can be served room temperature or cold.

Can my 4 month old drink breast milk?

Exclusive breastfeeding (breast milk only) is recommended for around the first 6 months of your baby’s life.

Natasha Lunn

Tash is an IBCLC and Business Coach helping fellow IBCLCs create fun, profitable businesses that are more than just an expensive hobby. Before becoming an IBCLC and starting her private practice - The Boobala, Tash graduated as an Osteopath in 2008 and has been in Private Practice in South West Sydney. She was also a volunteer Breastfeeding Counsellor and Community Educator with the Australian Breastfeeding Association for 6 years. Through her business, Your Lactation Biz, Tash coaches and creates products to help new and seasoned IBCLCs build businesses that suit their personality and lifestyle.

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