Breast milk is the most natural and nutritious source of nutrition for a baby's healthy growth and development. Throughout human history, breast milk has been the foundation for babies' survival and healthy development. Today, experts recommend that babies be fed exclusively breast milk for the first six months.

As Magnet Hospital, we offer professional support to mothers regarding breastfeeding consultancy and breast milk storage methods.

The Content and Characteristics of Breast Milk

Breast milk not only meets a baby's physical needs; it also contains many components that strengthen the immune system, support brain development, and positively impact a baby's psychological well-being. The composition of breast milk changes in the first weeks and even months after birth, ensuring that the milk is always tailored to meet the baby's needs.

Breast milk consists of many vital components, including water, protein, fat, carbohydrates, vitamins, minerals, antibodies, hormones, growth factors, enzymes, prebiotics, and probiotics. Each of these substances is crucial for the baby's healthy development.

1. Water

Breast milk contains approximately 87 percent water. This ratio meets the baby's fluid needs and regulates body temperature. Breast milk provides both nutrition and adequate fluid intake.

2. Proteins

The proteins in breast milk help the baby develop muscle. Most of the proteins are in the form of free amino acids, which are easily digestible.

Casein: Makes up 40–45 percent of total protein and helps keep the baby full.
Lactalbumin: Makes up 55–60 percent and plays a critical role in brain and muscle development.

3. Fats

The fats in breast milk, especially omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids, are essential for brain development and retinal health. They also meet the baby's energy needs and support the structure of cell membranes.

Note: At the beginning of breastfeeding, milk contains more water and protein, and towards the end, it contains more fat.

4. Carbohydrates (Lactose)

Lactose in breast milk:

• Supports the digestive system

• Protects intestinal flora

• Promotes the development of probiotics

• Contributes to brain development

5. Vitamins

Breast milk contains many vitamins that are essential for the healthy development of the baby:

• Vitamin A: For vision health and immunity

• Vitamin D: For bone health and calcium absorption

• Vitamin E: Antioxidant that protects cells

• Vitamin K: Necessary for blood clotting

• B group vitamins: For energy metabolism and nervous system development

6. Minerals

Breast milk contains the minerals necessary for the baby's bone and tooth development:

• Calcium: Bone and teeth health

• Iron: Hemoglobin production and oxygen transport

• Magnesium: Muscle and nervous system functions

• Zinc: Immune system and cell regeneration

• Sodium and potassium: Balance of body fluids

7. Antibodies and Immune Factors

Breast milk contains many elements that strengthen the baby's immune system:

• Immunoglobulin A (IgA): Protects the stomach and intestines

• Lactoferrin: Prevents the proliferation of harmful bacteria by binding iron

• Lysozyme: Fights against viruses and bacteria

• Bifidobacteria and lactobacilli: Support intestinal health

8. Growth Factors and Hormones

The hormones and growth factors contained in breast milk ensure the baby's cell development and the proper functioning of the organism:

• IGF (Insulin-like growth factors)

• Insulin

• Thyroxine

• Prolactin

9. Enzymes

Breast milk contains enzymes that aid digestion, making it easier for babies to absorb and utilize the nutrients they consume.

10. Prebiotics and Probiotics

Prebiotics and probiotics in breast milk protect intestinal health and strengthen the digestive system.

At Magnet Hospital, we provide breastfeeding counseling and breastfeeding support to mothers. Our experts offer guidance on increasing breast milk, proper storage methods, and breastfeeding techniques.

The Benefits of Breast Milk and the Breastfeeding Process

Breast milk is nature's most valuable nutritional source, offering countless benefits for both mother and baby. Experts recommend exclusive breastfeeding for the first six months and continuing breastfeeding with complementary foods thereafter. Magnet Hospital provides mothers with expert advice on breastfeeding support and breast milk storage methods.

1. Benefits of Breast Milk for Babies

Strengthening the immune system: Breast milk protects the baby against infections thanks to antibodies and defensive substances.

Lower risk of infection: Ear infections, respiratory tract diseases and gastrointestinal infections are less common in breastfed babies.

Mental development: Omega fatty acids support brain development and increase learning abilities.

Healthy growth: Breast milk prevents the baby from gaining excessive weight and ensures balanced development.

Emotional attachment: Breastfeeding strengthens the bond between mother and baby and contributes to psychological development.

2. Benefits of Breastfeeding for the Mother

• Helps the uterus recover faster after birth

• Reduces postpartum bleeding

• It helps mothers control their weight by consuming extra calories daily.

• Helps reduce stress thanks to the oxytocin hormone

3. Breastfeeding Process

• Regular breastfeeding increases milk production

• Correct position and techniques prevent pain.

• Strengthens the bond between mother and baby

Magnet Hospital offers professional support to mothers experiencing breastfeeding difficulties.

How to Store Breast Milk?

Breast milk is the most valuable food for babies' healthy growth. However, not every mother can breastfeed all the time. Therefore, storing breast milk correctly is crucial. Improper storage can reduce the milk's nutritional value and lead to bacterial growth.

Magnet Hospital experts offer professional support to mothers regarding breast milk expression, storage and breastfeeding methods.

1. Preparation Before Expressing Breast Milk

• Hands should be washed with soap

• Milking equipment must be sterilized

• Storage containers or bags must be sterile

At Magnet Hospital, mothers are trained on proper breastfeeding techniques.

2. Suitable Containers for Storing Breast Milk

• Glass bottles

• BPA-free plastic containers

• Breast milk storage bags

The milking date must be written on the containers.

3. How to Store Breast Milk?

3.1 Storage at Room Temperature

It can be safely stored for 3–4 hours at 20–25°C.
If the room temperature is above 25°C, it should be consumed within 2 hours.

3.2 Storage in the Refrigerator

It can be stored for 3–5 days at 4°C.
Milk should be stored on the coldest shelf in the refrigerator, not on the door.

3.3 Storage in the Deep Freezer

Can be stored at -18°C for up to 6 months.

3.4 Thawing and Heating

Milk should be thawed slowly in the refrigerator.
Warm water should be used for heating.
It should not be heated in the microwave.
Thawed milk should not be refrozen.

4. Breast Milk Storage Tips

• Milking date should be written on each container

• The cold chain must be maintained during external transport.

• The remaining milk in the bottle should be consumed within 1 hour.

• Milks milked at different times should not be mixed.

5. Other Points to Consider

• Containers must be sterilized before each use.

• If there is an abnormal change in the odor of the milk, it should not be used.

• Hygiene is very important in the storage and preparation processes of milk.

Foods That Increase Breast Milk

Consuming foods such as tahini, legumes, dried fruits, black cumin, fenugreek, almonds, walnuts, hazelnuts, apricots, dates, green leafy vegetables, eggs, meat and fish, and drinking plenty of water can increase breast milk.

Storing breast milk properly is crucial for your baby's healthy nutrition.
For short-term storage, use room temperature,
for medium-term storage, use the refrigerator,
and for long-term storage, use the freezer.

Magnet Hospital provides professional support to mothers regarding breastfeeding counseling, breast milk expression methods and storage techniques.

For more information and appointment:
magnethastanesi.com.tr
0312 212 80 80

Frequently Asked Questions – Storing and Using Breast Milk

How long can breast milk be stored in the refrigerator?

Can be stored at 4°C for 3–5 days.

How many months can breast milk be stored in the freezer?

It can be stored for up to 6 months.

Can breast milk be heated in the microwave?

No, microwave is not recommended.

Which containers should be used when storing breast milk?

BPA-free plastic containers, glass bottles or breast milk bags can be used.

Can thawed milk be frozen again?

No.

Which is better: breast milk storage bags or glass bottles?

Both are suitable, provided they are sterile.

How to warm breast milk?

Bain-marie method with warm water.

What are the methods of expressing breast milk?

By hand, with a manual pump or electric pump.

How long does breast milk last?

2–4 hours at room temperature, 3–5 days in the refrigerator, 6 months in the freezer.

What should be the storage conditions for breast milk?

Hygiene, the right temperature and suitable containers are essential.

How does breast milk support immunity?

It protects the baby thanks to antibodies and immune factors.

What vitamins and minerals are in breast milk?

Vitamins A, D, E, K, B and calcium, iron, magnesium and zinc.

How to ensure breast milk safety?

With sterilization, correct storage conditions and timely consumption