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Does cold milk upset babys stomach?

Understanding Cold Milk and Babies’ Stomachs
The question of whether cold milk can upset a baby’s stomach is one that many new parents ponder, especially during those late-night feedings. The good news is that cold milk is generally safe for babies, and there is no substantial evidence to suggest that it causes stomach upset more than warmed milk.
Safety of Cold Milk for Babies
Health experts, including those from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), affirm that breast milk and formula can be given to babies at room temperature or even cold. In fact, some parents choose to feed their babies cold milk based on personal preference or convenience, particularly when dealing with a fussy infant in the middle of the night.
Sensitivity of Babies’ Stomachs
While it is safe to offer cold milk, it’s important to consider that babies have sensitive stomachs. Some parents report that their infants may show signs of discomfort after consuming cold milk, which could be due to the baby’s individual sensitivity rather than the temperature of the milk itself. For instance, newborns might reject cold milk or display signs of indigestion, but this is not universally experienced.
Expert Opinions
Experts emphasize that there is no scientific basis for the belief that cold milk is more likely to upset a baby’s stomach than warmed milk. In fact, some pediatricians suggest that cold breast milk can even serve as a soothing remedy for teething babies, providing relief during a challenging time.
Conclusion
In summary, while cold milk is safe for babies and does not inherently cause stomach upset, individual reactions can vary. Parents should observe their baby’s responses and adjust accordingly. If a baby seems to prefer warm milk or shows signs of discomfort after consuming cold milk, it may be wise to warm it up for future feedings. Ultimately, the choice between cold and warm milk can be guided by the baby’s preferences and comfort.

Can babies get sick from drinking cold milk?

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

Will cold formula hurt babies’ stomach?

It’s fine to feed your baby cool or even cold formula. It’s all up to your baby’s preference – they may prefer it warm, at room temperature, or even chilled, and all of those options are just fine. Some parents like to give their baby warm formula because it’s closer to the temperature of breast milk.

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.

Is cold milk bad for digestion?

Cold milk is good when consumed at daytime during summer as it cools the body. It is one of the best relievers for acidity that causes burning sensation. Moreover, high amount of calcium can prevent acidity.

How do I know if my milk is upsetting my baby?

If your baby shows negative symptoms after drinking breast milk. Consider how your baby responds to breast milk after drinking it. If symptoms occur such as fussiness, irritability, crying, gas, increased spitting up and/or drawing their legs up due to tummy pain, write down everything you ate that day.

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.

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.

Does cold baby milk cause gas?

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.

Can I give my baby 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.

Is cold milk bad for babies tummy?

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