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Does cold milk hurt babys stomach?

Understanding the Impact of Cold Milk on Babies’ Stomachs
When it comes to feeding infants, parents often grapple with the question of whether cold milk can hurt their baby’s stomach. This concern is rooted in the belief that the temperature of milk might affect a baby’s delicate digestive system. However, the reality is more nuanced.
Digestive Sensitivity in Infants
Babies, especially those under six months, have sensitive stomachs that are still developing. Some parents report that their infants may experience digestive discomfort when consuming cold breast milk or formula. This discomfort can manifest as fussiness or temporary digestive disturbances, primarily due to the sudden introduction of a cold substance into their stomachs.
Scientific Insights
Despite anecdotal evidence suggesting that cold milk could lead to stomach upset, health experts indicate that there is no substantial scientific basis for this concern. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), breast milk does not need to be warmed before feeding. It can be given at room temperature or even cold without any adverse effects on the baby. In fact, some pediatricians assert that cold milk does not upset a baby’s stomach more than warmed milk.
Parental Experiences and Preferences
While some babies may refuse cold milk or show signs of discomfort, this is not universally applicable. Many infants adapt well to cold milk, and parents who have tried it report no significant issues. For instance, one mother shared her experience of a baby who prefers milk straight from the fridge, suggesting that individual preferences play a crucial role in this discussion.
Conclusion: A Balanced Approach
In conclusion, while some babies might react negatively to cold milk due to their sensitive digestive systems, the majority can handle it without any problems. Parents should observe their child’s reactions and preferences when introducing cold milk. If a baby seems to tolerate it well, there is generally no need for concern. Ultimately, the choice of serving milk cold or warmed can depend on the baby’s individual comfort and the parents’ convenience.

Is cold or warm formula better for gas?

Warming formula can contribute to better digestion for infants. Babies’ digestive systems are still developing, and consuming cold formula can sometimes lead to discomfort or gas. Serving warm formula can help ease the digestive process, reducing the likelihood of these issues.

Why should you not give a baby cold milk?

The problem is that it can be tough to get the fat layer to mix back in with the milk if it is cold. (You definitely want baby to get that fat — it will satisfy her for longer and contribute to healthy weight gain.) Plus, baby might prefer milk that’s closer to body temperature.

Why wait 30 minutes before making formula?

Leave the water to cool in the kettle for no more than 30 minutes. Then it will stay at a temperature of at least 70C. If you’re using a baby formula preparation machine, make sure the water is at least 70C. Water at this temperature will kill any harmful bacteria.

Can cold milk make a baby fussy?

There is no scientific basis to the idea that cold milk would upset a baby’s stomach more than warmed milk.

Why can’t babies drink cold formula?

“Cold formula is typically not recommended for premature infants, who often require sterilized formula, which has been hot enough to kill bacteria and then cooled to human temperature before serving,” she says, “It’s also not recommended for those with slow weight gain because bringing the formula up to body …

Can babies get sick from drinking cold milk?

Studies in full-term and preterm infants have shown the safe practice of feeding cold milk.

Is warm milk easier on babies’ stomach?

Warm milk is easier to digest leading to less throw up, but it isn’t harmful to serve cold! If the baby accepts it, great! If not, I’d recommend getting a baby breeza (if you have $100 to spare) it’s a keurig for babies, formula comes out warm already! Best purchase ever for us!

Is cold milk bad for upset stomach?

Therefore, it was formerly believed that milk would help ease the acidity of an upset stomach. It does for a few hours, by coating the stomach lining and acting as a buffer against excess acid. However, it then stimulates the stomach to produce more gastric acid, actually making the problem worse.

Does cold milk upset baby’s stomach?

There is no scientific basis to the idea that cold milk would upset a baby’s stomach more than warmed milk.

Can babies drink milk straight from the fridge?

You can feed expressed milk straight from the fridge if your baby is happy to drink it cold. Or you can warm the milk to body temperature by putting the bottle in a jug of warm water or holding it under running warm water. Do not use a microwave to heat up or defrost breast milk.

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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