Does frozen breastmilk still contain antibodies?

The Antibody Content of Frozen Breast Milk: What Parents Should Know
Breast milk is often hailed as the gold standard for infant nutrition, not only for its rich array of nutrients but also for its immune-boosting properties. One of the key components of breast milk is antibodies, which play a crucial role in protecting infants from infections. However, many parents wonder about the efficacy of frozen breast milk in retaining these vital antibodies.
The Impact of Freezing on Antibodies
Research indicates that while freezing breast milk is an effective method for long-term storage, it does lead to some degradation of its quality over time. Specifically, studies suggest that frozen breast milk does lose some of its antibody content, although it still retains a significant amount of these protective proteins. This means that while fresh breast milk is optimal, frozen milk can still provide important immunological benefits to infants.
Experts emphasize that freshly pumped breast milk contains a robust level of antibodies, comparable to that of milk fed directly from the breast. However, the freezing process can diminish these levels. For parents who rely on pumping and storing milk, it’s reassuring to know that even though some antibodies may be lost, the frozen milk still offers protective benefits.
The Role of Antibodies in Breast Milk
Breast milk contains a variety of antibodies, including Immunoglobulin A (IgA), which is particularly important for mucosal immunity. These antibodies help to shield infants from pathogens they may encounter, especially in the early months of life when their immune systems are still developing. Notably, recent studies have also shown that mothers who have been vaccinated against COVID-19 can pass specific antibodies through their breast milk, even when it is frozen.
Practical Considerations for Parents
For parents who are considering the best ways to provide breast milk to their infants, it’s essential to balance the benefits of fresh versus frozen milk. While fresh milk is ideal, frozen breast milk remains a valuable alternative, especially for those who may have an oversupply or need to return to work. The key takeaway is that frozen breast milk still contains antibodies, albeit in slightly reduced amounts, making it a viable option for maintaining an infant’s immune health.
In conclusion, while fresh breast milk is the best option for delivering antibodies to infants, frozen breast milk still plays a significant role in providing essential immune support. Parents can feel confident in using frozen milk as part of their feeding strategy, knowing that it continues to offer protective benefits for their little ones.

Does frozen breast milk lose benefits?

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.

When is breast milk most nutritious?

Four weeks onwards: Mature milk
By the time your baby is four weeks old, your breast milk will be fully mature. It’s rich in protein, sugar, vitamins and minerals, plus numerous bioactive components – such as hormones, growth factors, enzymes and live cells – to support your baby’s healthy growth and development.

Do antibodies survive in frozen breastmilk?

Thaw milk in the refrigerator or in warm water just before feeding. Thawed milk must be used within 24 hours. Note: freezing breastmilk destroys some of its antibodies.

Do babies still benefit from pumped breast milk?

It’s worth noting that if you exclusively pump, your baby is still getting the nutritional and health benefits of breastmilk.

Does pumped breast milk still have antibodies?

Providing breast milk, whether through breastfeeding or exclusive pumping, also helps you return to your pre-pregnancy weight faster. No studies have specifically compared breast pumping to nursing. But we know both methods provide the same antibodies and nourishment to help your baby stay healthy.

Does frozen breastmilk still have antibodies?

Frozen Breast Milk Retains Most of Its Nutrients
Previously frozen breast milk has similar nutrient and antibody content to fresh milk. It does lose a small amount of those qualities but can still provide a baby with the nutrition it needs.

When does breastmilk stop providing antibodies?

Antibodies & Infants
Following delivery, the infant will start producing their own antibodies as they are exposed to pathogens. Conversely, the levels of maternal IgG in the infant begin to fall shortly after delivery. This “inherited” protection will deteriorate over the first six months of life (Figure 1).

Does breastmilk have antibodies for baby cold?

Often, babies will want to feed constantly while they have a cold. Their bodies know that they need the valuable milk that you are producing for an antibody hit to help them recover. Your breastmilk can help to soothe a sore and irritated throat, and frequent cuddles and contact can help with aches and pains.

How long are babies protected by mother’s antibodies?

Most babies do not need both. The maternal RSV vaccine (Pfizer’s Abrysvo) is given during weeks 32 through 36 of pregnancy. Maternal antibodies protect the baby against RSV for approximately 6 months after birth. An RSV antibody (nirsevimab) can be given to babies and some young children.

Are breastfed babies less likely to get RSV?

Infants receiving (exclusive or partial) maternal milk had lower risk of RSV bronchiolitis. Partial breastfeeding reduces risk of hospitalisation.