Should breastmilk be vigorously shaken to combine layers before feeding?

The Debate on Shaking Breastmilk: What Parents Need to Know
Breastfeeding is often hailed as the gold standard for infant nutrition, providing a perfect balance of nutrients tailored to a baby’s needs. However, a common question arises among new parents: should breastmilk be vigorously shaken to combine layers before feeding? The answer is nuanced and requires an understanding of the nature of breastmilk and the best practices for preparing it for feeding.
The Composition of Breastmilk
Breastmilk is a complex fluid composed of water, carbohydrates, proteins, fats, vitamins, and minerals. Notably, it separates into layers when stored, with the creamier, fatty layer rising to the top. This separation is a natural process due to the milk’s unique composition. The fat content is crucial, as it provides essential energy and supports brain development in infants.
The Risks of Vigorous Shaking
While it may be tempting to vigorously shake breastmilk to recombine the layers, experts advise against this practice. Vigorous shaking can introduce air into the milk, leading to the formation of bubbles. This aeration can potentially cause the milk to spoil more quickly and may also lead to digestive discomfort for the baby. Additionally, shaking can disrupt the fragile proteins in breastmilk, diminishing its nutritional quality.
Recommended Practices for Mixing Breastmilk
Instead of shaking, the gentle swirling method is recommended. This technique involves lightly swirling the bottle to combine the layers without introducing excessive air. Here are some best practices to follow:
1. Use a clean, sterilized bottle for storage and feeding.
2. Allow the milk to sit for a few minutes after removing it from the refrigerator or freezer. This allows the fat to rise to the top.
3. Gently swirl the bottle to mix the milk layers without shaking it.
4. Check the temperature before feeding, ensuring it is warm but not hot.
Conclusion
In the quest to provide the best for their infants, parents often seek clarity on practices surrounding breastmilk. While it might seem innocuous, vigorously shaking breastmilk can compromise its quality and the baby’s comfort. Instead, adopting gentle methods to combine the milk layers ensures that infants receive the full nutritional benefits of this remarkable fluid. As always, consulting with a pediatrician or lactation consultant can provide personalized guidance tailored to specific circumstances.

What is the milkshake technique for breastfeeding?

You could do what is sometimes called the ‘breast milkshake’. This involves massaging each breast very gently for half a minute or so before feeding, then using a combination of massage and breast compression (see below) during a feed to help dislodge some of the fat.

Should you shake or swirl formula?

At Dr. Brown’s, we recommend gently stirring formula with a fork or teaspoon. Stirring helps minimize air bubbles and pressure build up a sure way to help ensure Happy Feeding .

Can you combine milk from different pumping sessions?

According to Verywell Family, it is safe to combine breast milk from different pumping sessions if the milk is collected and stored under clean conditions and the baby is full-term and healthy. However, it is not recommended to combine milk that has been stored for more than 24 hours.

How to successfully combine feed?

Hints and tips when starting mixed feeding

1. introduce the first bottle feed when your baby is calm, not tired or hungry.
2. use a slow-flow teat to mimic the flow when breastfeeding.
3. express your milk regularly between bottle feeds to help maintain your milk supply.

What is the 5 5 5 rule for breast milk?

Something I recommend to moms is the 5-5-5 rule. Try and use milk within five hours at room temperature, five days in the fridge, and by five months in the freezer.

What is the best way to combine breast milk?

Mixing freshly expressed breast milk with already cooled or frozen milk is not advised because it can rewarm the older stored milk. It is best to cool freshly expressed milk before combining it with older, previously cooled or frozen milk. Also consider storage duration guidelines for breast milk.

Should you shake or swirl breast milk?

How do u mix it when it’s separated? Candace Moulton–It’s easier to mix in the fat if you run the bottle under hot water.

What is the 120 pumping rule?

The first 12 weeks of your breastfeeding journey requires frequent breastmilk removal, stimulating healthy milk production. Studies show moms who exclusively pump for a minimum of 120 minutes per day can make enough to feed their babies primarily breastmilk.

What is the 6 6 6 rule for breastmilk?

Or the 6-6-6 rule. Basically, breast milk is good at room temperature for 4 or 6 hours, in the refrigerator for 4 or 6 days, and in the freezer for 4 or 6 or 12 months.

Why should breast milk not be shaken?

“ Shaking breast milk is not recommended because it can cause the milk to break down, which can affect the milk’s quality and nutritive value. Shaking can also denature the milk’s molecules, which can damage the protein and prevent babies from getting enough protein for development”.