Does freezing breast milk destroy nutrients?

The Nutritional Impact of Freezing Breast Milk
Freezing breast milk is a common practice among nursing mothers, especially those who need to store milk for later use. However, a prevalent concern is whether this process affects the nutritional quality of the milk. The answer is nuanced, as research indicates that while some nutrient loss occurs, breast milk remains a superior option compared to formula.
Nutrient Preservation During Freezing
Scientific studies suggest that freezing breast milk at temperatures below -20°C is effective for preserving its nutritional content. The primary focus of research has been on the macronutrients—proteins, fats, and carbohydrates—that are crucial for infant development. While there is limited evidence regarding significant nutrient loss during freezing, some studies indicate that certain components, particularly antioxidants, may diminish over time.
Effects of Storage Conditions
The way breast milk is stored can influence its nutrient profile. For instance, the type of container used and the duration of storage play critical roles. Research has shown that breast milk stored in various containers can experience changes in macronutrient concentrations due to factors like temperature fluctuations and exposure to light. Moreover, while freezing does not drastically alter the energy content of breast milk, it can lead to some degradation of specific nutrients, particularly if the milk is stored for extended periods.
Comparative Nutritional Quality
Despite some nutrient loss, frozen breast milk still retains a significant portion of its beneficial properties. For example, while antioxidants may decrease, the overall immunological benefits of breast milk remain intact, making it a better choice than formula. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) emphasizes that even stored breast milk provides essential nutrients that support infant health, underscoring its superiority over alternatives.
Conclusion
In summary, while freezing breast milk does lead to some loss of nutrients, particularly antioxidants, the overall nutritional quality remains high. The benefits of breast milk, even when frozen, far outweigh the drawbacks, making it a vital source of nutrition for infants. Mothers are encouraged to follow proper storage guidelines to maximize the milk’s nutritional and immunological qualities, ensuring their babies receive the best possible nourishment.

Does breast milk lose nutritional value when refrigerated?

Refrigeration for 72 hours of term milk decreased protein content less than freezing. Preterm colostrum has significantly less protein after 48 hours of refrigeration or freezing. Preterm milk from day 60 lost carbohydrates if refrigerated 72 hours or frozen for 2 months.

Does freezing breast milk make it less nutritious?

Freezing breast milk can denature some of the secretory immunoglobins that impart immune benefits to your baby. The fat, sugar, and proteins should be okay as they are broken down either way in the gastrointestinal system. Properly stored, frozen, and defrosted breast milk will retain its nutritional value.

Why can’t you use frozen breastmilk after 6 months?

Keep in mind that research suggests that the longer you store breast milk — whether in the refrigerator or in the freezer — the greater the loss of vitamin C in the milk. It’s also important to note that your breast milk changes to meet your baby’s needs.

Why is frozen breast milk only good for 6 months?

There’s nothing to suggest long-term frozen breastmilk will harbor pathogens, but it seems likely that there is some degradation of nutrients. I will say these figures are small — say, 3 to 10%. Put differently: if you feed your baby milk that has been frozen for 6 months, they might need more.

Can breast milk lose nutritional value?

However, unless properly stored and processed, human milk loses its nutrient and immunologic value; accordingly, appropriate guidelines have been proposed for storage and thawing [8,9,10]. When frozen human milk is thawed, it is recommended to place it in the refrigerator overnight and thaw in the water bath [8].

What are the disadvantages of freezing breast milk?

Some of the immune enhancing properties of breastmilk are decreased over time when milk is frozen. However, the risk of bacterial contamination of milk that has been kept in the refrigerator too long and not frozen, far outweighs the downside of freezing milk.

Does freezing milk destroy protein?

Though human milk is stable at room temperature for hours, freezing it promptly ensures its nutritional benefits. When frozen and stored for more than 90 days, however, fat, protein, and calories may decrease, and acidity may increase due to ongoing lipase activity [5].

Does breast milk lose antibodies when frozen?

Are the antibodies still there if the milk has been frozen? There would be a slight decline in antibodies from a single thawing of frozen milk, Powell told me, but not enough to concern her.

When should you not use frozen breast milk?

Freshly expressed breast milk can be stored in the back of a deep freezer for up to 12 months. However, using the frozen milk within six months is optimal.

Does freezing milk change its nutritional value?

People can freeze most milk, including breast milk or human milk. Frozen milk retains its nutritional profile when it thaws, and the sooner someone freezes it, the better the milk quality after thawing. The enzymes and fat-soluble vitamins it contains may decrease very slightly but largely remain the same.