If you’re a breastfeeding mom and you’ve noticed that your pumped milk smells a bit soapy or metallic, you might be dealing with high lipase breast milk. It’s a common concern for many nursing mothers, and it can be a little confusing. Let’s chat about what this means and why it happens.
What is High Lipase Breast Milk?
High lipase breast milk refers to milk that has an elevated level of lipase, an enzyme that breaks down fats. When milk is stored in the fridge or freezer, this enzyme can cause changes in its taste and smell, making it less appealing to some babies. You might be in for a surprise if your little one refuses to drink milk that you thought was perfectly fine to store.
How to Tell if You Have High Lipase Breast Milk
If you suspect your milk has high lipase activity, the easiest way to confirm is by tasting it. If it has a soapy or metallic flavor, that’s a telltale sign. However, don’t worry too much! Even if your milk doesn’t smell or taste great, it’s still safe for your baby to drink.
Encouraging Your Baby to Drink High Lipase Breast Milk
When it comes to getting your baby to accept milk with high lipase, there are a few tricks you can try. Scalding the milk before storing it can deactivate the lipase, preventing those changes in flavor. If you want more tips on this topic, check out this post here.
You can also combine the high lipase milk with fresh milk to make it more palatable. And remember, you’re not alone in this—many other moms have faced the same issue, so share your experiences and strategies with friends!
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In summary, having high lipase breast milk can be a small bump in the road, but it’s manageable. By understanding what it is and trying out a few strategies, you can make sure your baby is still getting the nutrition they need.