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How do you lower high lipase in breast milk?

Understanding High Lipase in Breast Milk
High lipase activity in breast milk can be a concern for breastfeeding mothers, particularly when it leads to changes in the milk’s taste and smell. Lipase is an enzyme that helps break down fats, and while it plays a crucial role in digestion, excessive lipase can cause milk to develop a soapy or metallic odor, making it unpalatable for infants. This can result in babies refusing to drink pumped milk, which can be distressing for mothers who rely on stored milk for feeding.
Causes of High Lipase
The exact reasons why some mothers have high lipase levels in their breast milk are not fully understood. However, it is known that lipase activity can increase during the storage of milk, especially if it is not handled properly. Factors such as the duration of storage, temperature, and the method of milk expression can all influence lipase levels. For instance, milk that is stored for extended periods or not cooled quickly enough may exhibit higher lipase activity.
Strategies to Lower High Lipase Levels
While it may not be possible to completely eliminate high lipase activity, there are several strategies that mothers can employ to manage the issue effectively:
1. Scalding the Milk: One of the most effective methods to reduce lipase activity is to scald the milk before storing it. This involves heating the milk to about 180°F (82°C) and then cooling it quickly. Scalding denatures the lipase enzyme, preventing it from breaking down the fats in the milk, which helps maintain its taste and smell.
2. Proper Storage Techniques: To minimize lipase activity, mothers should ensure that breast milk is stored correctly. This includes using clean, sterilized containers and refrigerating or freezing the milk promptly after pumping. The faster the milk is cooled, the less likely it is for lipase to affect its quality.
3. Shorter Storage Times: If possible, mothers should aim to use stored milk within a shorter timeframe. Freshly expressed milk generally has lower lipase activity compared to milk that has been stored for longer periods. Using milk within a few days when refrigerated or within a few months when frozen can help maintain its quality.
4. Mixing Fresh and Frozen Milk: Another approach is to mix freshly expressed milk with previously stored milk. This can help mask any off-flavors caused by high lipase in older milk, making it more acceptable to the baby.
5. Consulting a Lactation Consultant: For mothers struggling with high lipase issues, seeking advice from a lactation consultant can provide personalized strategies and support. They can offer guidance on proper pumping, storage techniques, and feeding practices to ensure that both mother and baby are comfortable and satisfied.
Conclusion
High lipase in breast milk can pose challenges for breastfeeding mothers, particularly when it leads to feeding difficulties. By understanding the causes and implementing effective management strategies, mothers can help ensure that their babies receive the nutrition they need without the unpleasant taste associated with high lipase activity. Whether through scalding, proper storage, or seeking professional advice, there are ways to navigate this common breastfeeding concern.

Can you sell breast milk with high lipase?

Yes! We will happily accept your high lipase milk, as will our recipient babies. Lipase is destroyed during our pasteurization process.

Does freezing milk immediately reduce lipase?

“First, you can deep freeze your milk immediately after it is expressed/pumped, which helps decrease the lipase activity,”1 she says.

What to eat to lower lipase?

Eat a low-fat diet

  • Try to eat 4 to 6 small meals and snacks each day instead of 3 large meals.
  • Choose lean meats.
  • Drink or eat non-fat or low-fat milk, yogurt, cheese, or other milk products each day.
  • Eat a variety of vegetables and fruits.
  • Eat whole grain cereals, breads, crackers, rice, or pasta.

What destroys lipase?

Digestive enzymes: Digestive enzymes, including papain, pepsin, betaine HCL, and hydrochloric acid, can destroy the lipase enzymes. Enteric-coated lipase enzyme products are protected against destruction by stomach acid.

How to get rid of high lipase in breastmilk?

***Per Lawrence & Lawrence, bile salt-stimulated lipase can also be destroyed by heating the milk at 144.5 F (62.5 C) for one minute (p. 205), or at 163 F (72 C) for up to 15 seconds (p. 771).

How do you sweeten high lipase milk?

It is important to know that this milk is still safe and nutritious. Strategies to manage high lipase breast milk include scalding freshly expressed milk to deactivate the lipase or mixing stored breast milk with fresh breast milk, formula, or a small amount of vanilla extract to make the milk more palatable.

What deactivates lipase?

Immobilized lipase is frequently deactivated by lower alcohols with deactivation being caused by the immiscibility between triglycerides and methanol or ethanol. When the lower alcohol is adsorbed to the immobilized enzyme, the entry of triglycerides is blocked, which causes the reaction to stop.

What happens if a baby drinks high lipase milk?

There is no evidence that high lipase milk is bad for your baby or that it will create problems in the future. Your baby is capable of digesting this milk without any issues. Remember, this is the same milk that your baby is drinking if they nurse directly from the breast.

How can I lower my lipase levels?

How to lower lipase levels

  1. intravenous fluids.
  2. medications to manage pain.
  3. not eating for a recommended period and then starting a bland diet.

Can exercise reduce lipase?

For example, a prolonged exercise contributes to a decrease in lipoprotein lipase activity and resultant reduction of FA uptake. This results in the improvement of mitochondrial function and upregulation of enzymes involved in the metabolism of polyunsaturated fatty acids.

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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