How to remove lipase from frozen breast milk?

Understanding Lipase in Breast Milk
Lipase is a natural enzyme found in breast milk that plays a crucial role in breaking down fats, making them easier for infants to digest. However, some mothers may experience high lipase levels, which can lead to changes in the taste and smell of stored breast milk. This can result in a soapy or metallic flavor that some babies may refuse to drink, particularly if the milk has been frozen and then thawed.
The Problem with High Lipase
When breast milk is stored, especially in the freezer, the lipase enzyme can continue to act on the milk’s fats, leading to undesirable changes. This can be particularly distressing for mothers who have worked hard to pump and store their milk, only to find that their baby rejects it due to its altered taste.
How to Remove or Manage Lipase in Frozen Breast Milk
While you cannot completely remove lipase from breast milk, there are effective strategies to manage its effects:
1. Scalding the Milk: One of the most recommended methods to deactivate lipase is to scald the milk before freezing it. This involves heating the milk to about 180°F (82°C) and then cooling it quickly before storage. Scalding denatures the lipase enzyme, preventing it from altering the milk’s taste over time.
2. Quick Freezing: If you have already pumped milk and are concerned about high lipase, consider freezing it as quickly as possible after pumping. The faster the milk is frozen, the less time the lipase has to act on it.
3. Testing for High Lipase: Before committing to a large stash of frozen milk, you can conduct a simple taste test. Thaw a small amount of your milk and check for any off-flavors. If the milk tastes soapy or metallic, you may need to adopt the scalding method for future batches.
4. Mixing Fresh Milk: If you have some milk that has been affected by high lipase, you can try mixing it with freshly pumped milk. This can sometimes mask the off-flavors, making it more palatable for your baby.
5. Consulting a Lactation Expert: If you’re struggling with high lipase and your baby is refusing the milk, consider reaching out to a lactation consultant. They can provide personalized advice and support to help you navigate this issue.
Conclusion
Managing high lipase in breast milk can be challenging, but with the right techniques, mothers can ensure their babies receive the full benefits of breast milk without the worry of rejection due to taste. By scalding milk before freezing and employing quick freezing methods, mothers can preserve the quality of their milk and maintain their breastfeeding journey with confidence.

How to tell if breast milk has high lipase?

The longer milk is kept at room temperature or even in the refrigerator before being frozen, the more lipase activity it will have. Milk that has a high level of lipase can develop a soapy smell and taste, but is not harmful to the baby.

How do you get the bad taste out of frozen breast milk?

You might try a few drops of non alcoholic vanilla extract in the milk. It worked to cover weird tastes from food I ate and high lipase. If that doesn’t work, you can always use the milk in things like pancakes or purées.

Why is my frozen breastmilk more yellow?

It could just mean that you’re brand new to breastfeeding. Both colostrum and transitional milk can have a yellowish hue. Mature milk can look yellow too, if you’ve recently eaten yellow- or orange-pigmented foods. It’s normal for milk to turn yellowish after being stored in the fridge or freezer as well.

How do you get rid of high lipase in frozen breast milk?

Scald Your High Lipase Breast Milk: Gently heating your milk can deactivate the lipase enzyme however, scaling could reduce some of the beneficial nutrients and gut bacteria you do want to preserve in your breast milk. Track Time: Be mindful of how long your milk is stored before use.

How to reduce lipase levels?

The best way to lower lipase levels is to treat the underlying condition that is causing it. If you have pancreatitis, your doctor will likely prescribe medication to help reduce inflammation and pain. They may also recommend lifestyle changes, such as eating a low-fat diet and avoiding alcohol.

Why does my frozen breast milk taste spoiled?

The milk is likely to have a very distinctive sour smell and may even taste metallic, like soap or bitter. If it smells sour, it is very likely because of the lipase enzyme’s action on the fat content of breast milk.

How to tell if frozen breast milk is bad?

The milk is likely to have a very distinctive sour smell and may even taste metallic, like soap or bitter. If it smells sour, it is very likely because of the lipase enzyme’s action on the fat content of breast milk.

How much vanilla to put in high lipase milk?

Try adding 1-2 drops of alcohol free vanilla extract! This can help mask the taste and smell.

How long does lipase stay in breastmilk?

If you do have excess lipase activity in your breast milk, you might notice a difference in its smell and taste about 12 to 14 hours after pumping and storing, although others might not notice changes until days later. Some possible changes include: Milk that has a soapy smell or taste.

How can I lower my lipase level quickly?

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.