Why does my breast milk smell like onions all?

Understanding the Onion Smell in Breast Milk
For many new mothers, the experience of breastfeeding can come with unexpected surprises, one of which is the peculiar smell of breast milk. If you’ve noticed that your breast milk has an onion-like odor, you’re not alone. This phenomenon can be attributed to several factors, primarily related to diet and physiological changes in the body.
Dietary Influences
One of the most common reasons breast milk may smell like onions is related to the mother’s diet. Foods such as onions, garlic, and certain spices can significantly alter the scent of breast milk. When these foods are consumed, their strong aromatic compounds can be absorbed into the bloodstream and subsequently transferred to the milk, resulting in a noticeable change in odor. This is a natural process, as the flavors and scents of what a mother eats can influence the taste and smell of her milk, potentially affecting a baby’s acceptance of it.
High Lipase Levels
Another factor that can contribute to the onion smell is the presence of high levels of lipase in breast milk. Lipase is an enzyme that helps break down fats, and while it is essential for digestion, elevated levels can lead to a sour or off-putting smell as the milk begins to break down. This is particularly common in expressed milk that has been stored for a while, as the breakdown process can intensify the odor.
Apocrine Glands and Body Chemistry
Interestingly, the apocrine glands, which are found in the nipples and are similar to those in the armpits, can also play a role in this phenomenon. These glands can produce secretions that may carry an onion-like scent, especially when a mother is sweating. This bodyWhy Does Breast Milk Smell Like Onions?
Breast milk can sometimes take on an onion-like odor due to a few different factors:
1. Diet: The foods a breastfeeding mother eats can affect the smell and taste of her breast milk. Consuming strong-smelling foods like onions, garlic, or spices can cause the breast milk to have a similar aroma.
2. Lipase Activity: Lipase is an enzyme in breast milk that breaks down fats. High lipase levels can cause the milk to develop a sour, onion-like smell, especially if the milk is stored for a period of time.
3. Apocrine Glands: The nipples contain apocrine glands, which are the same type of sweat glands found in the armpits. These glands can release compounds that give the breast milk an onion-like odor.
4. Hormonal Changes: Fluctuations in hormones during the postpartum period can also impact the smell of breast milk for some women.
The onion-like smell is generally harmless and not a sign of anything wrong with the breast milk. However, if the odor is very strong or unpleasant, it’s a good idea to speak with a lactation consultant or healthcare provider to rule out any underlying issues.

Why does my breast milk smell like onion?

Completely normal!!! Mine smelled like vidalia onions for a while, I swear! I was worried enough about it to do some internet sleuthing, and discovered that the glands surrounding the aereola produce a substance/ emollient that can smell onion-like or BO-like at times.

Why does my baby smell like an onion?

A dry mouth allows bacteria to thrive. Bacteria that live in the mouth can make compounds that have sulfur. These compounds are especially stinky. They can smell like rotten eggs or onion, for example.

What does spoiled breast milk smell like?

If your milk smells “sour” or “rancid” this can be from oxidation. These changes may occur shortly after the milk is expressed, or it may occur after the expressed milk is frozen and then defrosted.

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.

Why does my breastfed baby’s breath smell like onions?

Ingesting smelly foods: This is usually the most common cause. If your child enjoys foods that include pungent ingredients like garlic and onions, they can affect his or her breath as they work through the digestive system. Poor hygiene: The mouth is full of normal bacteria, and a baby’s mouth is no different.

What happens if a baby drinks bad breast milk?

This bacteria can cause digestive tract infections such as diarrhea. If a baby has diarrhea, he will become more fussy and become dehydrated. Because, a lot of fluid comes out of his body. If something like this happens, immediately take it to the doctor so the baby can get help.

How to tell if you have high lipase breastmilk?

You can’t see lipase, but changes in taste or smell can indicate its presence. The most notable signs of high lipase milk are changes in taste and smell. You might notice your milk having a scent or taste similar to metallic, vomit, eggs, soap, or fishy.

How to know when breast milk goes bad?

Human breast milk can spoil just like any other kind of milk. This leads to a sharp, sour smell and flavor. There’s no way to save spoiled milk. You should be able to tell it’s spoiled by tasting a sip of it yourself.

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.

Why do I smell like onions down there postpartum?

If a person’s vagina smells like onions, or has an unusually strong and unpleasant smell, it may be a sign of an infection. Other possible causes include certain foods, a forgotten tampon, and hygiene practices.