Why cant newborns drink cold milk?

The Temperature Debate: Why Newborns Should Avoid Cold Milk
When it comes to feeding newborns, the temperature of the milk can be a topic of concern for many parents. While some may wonder if it’s safe to give their little ones cold milk, the consensus among experts leans towards caution.
Digestive Sensitivity and Comfort
Newborns have delicate digestive systems that are still developing. Cold milk can be a shock to their system, potentially leading to discomfort or digestive issues. Babies often prefer milk that is slightly warmed, as it mimics the natural temperature of breast milk straight from the mother, providing a soothing and comforting experience during feeding. Cold milk may cause slower feeding or interruptions, as babies might resist or show discomfort when faced with a chill.
Nutritional Considerations
While cold milk is not inherently harmful, it can affect the milk’s consistency. For instance, when breast milk is chilled, the fat can separate, making it harder to mix and potentially leading to uneven feeding. This separation can also impact the nutritional benefits that breast milk provides, as the healing antibodies and nutrients may not be as effectively delivered if the milk is not properly mixed.
Energy Expenditure
Another factor to consider is the energy that a newborn’s body expends to warm cold milk to its optimal temperature. Babies use energy to bring the milk up to body temperature, which can be taxing for their still-maturing systems. This additional energy expenditure might not be ideal, especially for very young infants who need to conserve energy for growth and development.
Safety and Hygiene
From a safety perspective, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) states that there is no strict requirement to warm breast milk before feeding, and it can be given at room temperature or cold. However, parents should be mindful of hygiene practices, ensuring that milk is stored properly and not left out for extended periods, as this can lead to bacterial growth.
Conclusion
In summary, while it is technically safe for newborns to drink cold milk, it may not be the best choice for their comfort and digestive health. Warm milk is generally more soothing and easier for babies to digest, making it a preferred option for many parents. Ultimately, understanding a baby’s preferences and needs can guide caregivers in making the best feeding choices.

Is cold milk bad for newborns?

There is no issue with feeding cold milk. Breastmilk nor formula need to be warmed. In fact, over warming could pose more of an issue as it could contribute to degradation of nutrient content.

Can I give my baby milk straight from the fridge?

You can feed expressed milk straight from the fridge if your baby is happy to drink it cold. Or you can warm the milk to body temperature by putting the bottle in a jug of warm water or holding it under running warm water. Do not use a microwave to heat up or defrost breast milk.

Is cold formula harder to digest?

There is no evidence to indicate that the temperature of formula makes it easier or harder to digest in full-term infants. Although, some parents anecdotally find that warming formula does reduce their babies’ tummy troubles.

Can babies drink milk straight from the fridge?

You can feed expressed milk straight from the fridge if your baby is happy to drink it cold. Or you can warm the milk to body temperature by putting the bottle in a jug of warm water or holding it under running warm water. Do not use a microwave to heat up or defrost breast milk.

What happens if breast milk is too cold for baby?

There’s no harm in giving your baby cold milk. “It is not necessary to warm your breastmilk and can be served cold or room temperature. Although, some babies may have a preference,” says Wendi Andria, MSN, RNC-OB, IBCLC, a lactation specialist from South Shore University Hospital in Bay Shore, New York.

Does cold formula milk cause gas?

Babies’ digestive systems are still developing, and consuming cold formula can sometimes lead to discomfort or gas. Serving warm formula can help ease the digestive process, reducing the likelihood of these issues.

What happens if I accidentally give my newborn cold formula?

It’s safe and acceptable to feed your baby cold or room temperature formula.

Is it OK to give baby cold breast milk from the fridge?

Breast milk does not need to be warmed. It can be served room temperature or cold.

Why can’t newborns have cold formula?

Please consult your pediatrician about this. Please don’t give a newborn or very young baby cold formula; you are negatively affecting the infant’s core body temperature and possibly making the infant throw up, which will cause the infant to become dehydrated and malnourished.

Does cold milk upset a newborn’s stomach?

Believe it or not, yes — babies can drink cold milk. Many parents choose to heat up their baby’s milk, but this is mainly done based on the parent or baby’s preference and not for health reasons.