Do babies not like frozen breast milk?

Understanding Babies’ Preferences for Frozen Breast Milk
The question of whether babies dislike frozen breast milk is nuanced and can depend on several factors, including the milk’s preparation and the baby’s individual preferences. While many babies can and do consume frozen breast milk without issue, some may show a preference for fresh milk or reject frozen milk altogether.
The Role of Lipase
One significant reason some babies may reject frozen or stored breast milk is related to lipase, an enzyme naturally present in breast milk. Lipase helps break down fats, making them easier for babies to digest. However, when breast milk is frozen, the lipase can sometimes become overly active, leading to a change in the milk’s taste and smell. This alteration can result in a soapy or rancid flavor that some babies find unpalatable. If a baby is consistently rejecting frozen milk, it may be worth investigating whether lipase activity is the culprit.
Temperature Preferences
Another factor to consider is the temperature of the milk. While some parents worry about feeding their babies cold milk, research indicates that most babies can drink cold milk without adverse effects. However, individual preferences can vary. Some babies may prefer milk that is warmed to body temperature, which mimics the experience of breastfeeding directly from the breast. If a baby is accustomed to warm milk, they might reject cold frozen milk simply due to its temperature.
Storage and Preparation
The way breast milk is stored and prepared can also influence a baby’s acceptance. Proper storage techniques are crucial to maintaining the quality of breast milk. If milk is not stored correctly, it can develop off-flavors or odors that might deter a baby from drinking it. Parents are encouraged to follow guidelines for freezing and thawing breast milk to ensure it remains palatable.
Conclusion
In summary, while many babies can enjoy frozen breast milk, some may reject it due to factors like lipase activity, temperature preferences, or improper storage. Understanding these elements can help parents navigate their baby’s feeding preferences more effectively. If a baby consistently refuses frozen milk, it may be beneficial to explore these factors and consult with a lactation consultant for tailored advice.

How do I get my baby to drink frozen breast milk?

Mix frozen breastmilk with freshly pumped milk.
Do you have a large stash of high-lipase milk that baby won’t drink? You can try mixing the frozen milk with freshly pumped milk to see if they will drink it. This blend can help mask the soapy taste.

Does cold breast milk upset baby’s stomach?

Is it safe to feed babies cold milk? Yes, it’s safe to feed your baby cold milk. In fact, frozen breast milk can be used as a form of pain relief for teething babies!

Is frozen breast milk still good for baby?

The temperature of kitchen freezers is typically 0° F. Deep freezers and chest freezers may be colder than 0°F. Breast milk can be stored at 0° F or colder for up to 12 months, although using it within 6 months is best. Count the age of the milk from the first time it was frozen, regardless of when it was moved.

Why doesn’t my baby like frozen breast milk?

Background: Infant refusal to feed previously frozen human milk is thought possibly attributable to lipase, an enzyme that cleaves fatty acids from milk triglycerides potentially changing the taste of the milk.

Is frozen breast milk bad for baby?

The temperature of kitchen freezers is typically 0° F. Deep freezers and chest freezers may be colder than 0°F. Breast milk can be stored at 0° F or colder for up to 12 months, although using it within 6 months is best. Count the age of the milk from the first time it was frozen, regardless of when it was moved.

Can high lipase make babies sick?

No — absolutely not! High lipase milk is just as nutritious and safe as any other breast milk. The only difference is in its taste and smell, which some babies might notice, leading them to refuse bottles, while others may not. There is no evidence to suggest that high lipase milk causes any digestive issues in babies.

Does frozen breast milk taste different to babies?

This study revealed that the human breastmilk develops a rancid flavor during frozen storage. Therefore, we recommend that when infants refuse thawed milk, mothers can try to provide freshly expressed milk whenever possible or provide breastmilk frozen for less than 7 days.

Do babies prefer warm or cold breast milk?

“It is not necessary to warm your breastmilk and can be served cold or room temperature. Although, some babies may have a preference,” says Wendi Andria, MSN, RNC-OB, IBCLC, a lactation specialist from South Shore University Hospital in Bay Shore, New York.

Do babies dislike cold milk?

Giving cold formula or bottled breast milk to a baby is generally considered safe. However, there are a few points to consider: Temperature Preference: Many babies prefer milk that is warm, as it mimics the temperature of breast milk when it is fed directly. Cold milk might be less appealing to some infants.

When do babies reject breast milk?

Overstimulation, delayed feedings or a long separation from you might cause fussiness and difficulty nursing. A strong reaction from you to being bitten during breastfeeding might have the same effect. Sometimes a baby is simply too distracted to breastfeed. Unusual scents or tastes.