Teething can be a challenging time for both babies and parents. Finding ways to soothe the discomfort is essential for a happy baby and a peaceful household. One such solution gaining popularity among parents is breastmilk popsicles for teething. These popsicles, also known as “momsicles,” offer a natural, nutritious, and soothing remedy to alleviate teething pain. Read on to discover how to make these homemade treats, their benefits, and expert tips for safe use.
Table of Contents
Why Breastmilk Popsicles are Effective for Teething Pain
Teething can be a painful experience for both babies and parents. Fortunately, breastmilk popsicles can provide a natural and effective solution to soothe the discomfort. In this section, we will discuss the two main reasons why breastmilk popsicles are effective for teething pain.
Breastmilk Contains Natural Painkillers
Breastmilk contains natural painkillers that can help to alleviate the discomfort caused by teething. One of these painkillers is endorphins, which are produced in the mother’s body and transferred to the baby through breastmilk. Endorphins are known to have a calming effect and can help to reduce pain and discomfort.
In addition to endorphins, breastmilk also contains antibodies and other immune-boosting compounds that can help to reduce inflammation and fight off infection. This can be especially beneficial when a baby is teething, as the gums can become inflamed and sore.
Cold Temperature Soothes Inflamed Gums
Another reason why breastmilk popsicles are effective for teething pain is that the cold temperature can help to soothe inflamed gums. When a baby is teething, the gums can become red, swollen, and painful. Applying a cold object to the gums can help to reduce inflammation and provide relief.
Breastmilk popsicles are an ideal solution because they are not only cold but also contain the natural painkillers and immune-boosting compounds we mentioned earlier. The combination of cold temperature and natural pain relief can provide a double dose of relief for a teething baby.
When making breastmilk popsicles, it is important to use clean and sterile equipment to avoid contamination. It is also recommended to use breastmilk that has been expressed in the last 24 hours to ensure freshness and maximum benefits.
The Benefits of Breastmilk Popsicles for Teething
Breastmilk popsicles offer various benefits for teething babies, making them a popular choice among parents. In this section, we will discuss the numerous advantages of using breastmilk popsicles for teething relief.
Nutritional Benefits
Breastmilk is a nutrient-dense food for babies, providing essential nutrients such as vitamins, minerals, proteins, and healthy fats. As babies consume breastmilk popsicles, they continue to receive these essential nutrients, supporting their growth and development during the teething phase.
Hydration and Cooling
Teething can be a physically exhausting process for babies, often leading to increased drooling and potential dehydration. Breastmilk popsicles help keep babies hydrated during this time, as they provide both fluids and electrolytes necessary for maintaining proper hydration levels. Additionally, the cold temperature of the popsicles can be a cooling and soothing treat on hot days, offering further comfort to irritable babies.
Bonding and Comfort
Breastmilk is not only a source of nourishment for babies but also a source of comfort. The familiar taste of breastmilk can help provide a sense of security and familiarity during the teething process, creating a comforting experience for both the baby and the parent. Using breastmilk popsicles as a teething aid also allows parents to bond with their babies, offering emotional support and reassurance during a challenging time.
Economical and Environmentally Friendly
Using breastmilk popsicles as a teething aid can be an economical choice for parents, as it eliminates the need to purchase store-bought teething remedies. Additionally, making breastmilk popsicles is an environmentally friendly option, as it reduces waste and packaging associated with store-bought products.
Expert Advice for Using Breastmilk Popsicles
While breastmilk popsicles can be a beneficial addition to a teething baby’s routine, it’s essential to follow expert advice to ensure safe and effective use. Below are some tips and recommendations from healthcare professionals and lactation consultants:
Consult Your Pediatrician
Before introducing breastmilk popsicles to your baby, it’s essential to consult your pediatrician. They can provide guidance on when to start offering popsicles based on your baby’s developmental stage and any potential allergies or dietary restrictions.
Introduce Gradually
When introducing breastmilk popsicles to your baby, start slowly and monitor their reaction. Offer a small amount at first and gradually increase the quantity as your baby becomes more comfortable with the new texture and temperature. This gradual introduction can help prevent potential issues such as gagging or choking.
Monitor for Allergic Reactions
If you choose to add flavors to your breastmilk popsicles, such as pureed fruit or extracts, monitor your baby for any signs of an allergic reaction. Introduce one new ingredient at a time and wait a few days before adding another to pinpoint any potential allergens.
Follow Safe Food Handling Practices
Ensure that all equipment used to make breastmilk popsicles is clean and sterile to prevent contamination. Wash your hands thoroughly before handling breastmilk, and follow proper storage guidelines to maintain the quality and safety of the breastmilk popsicles.
How to Make Breastmilk Popsicles for Teething
Teething can be a painful and stressful experience for babies and parents alike. Breastmilk popsicles are an easy and natural way to soothe sore gums and help your little one feel more comfortable. Making breastmilk popsicles is also a great way to use up any extra breastmilk you may have stored in your freezer. In this section, we’ll go over the supplies you’ll need and provide step-by-step instructions for making breastmilk popsicles.
Supplies Needed
To make breastmilk popsicles, you’ll need the following supplies:
- Breastmilk – fresh or frozen
- Popsicle molds – silicone molds work well
- Popsicle sticks – if not included with your molds
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Start by thawing your breastmilk if it’s frozen. You can do this by placing it in the refrigerator overnight or holding the bag or bottle under warm running water.
2. Once the breastmilk is thawed, pour it into your popsicle molds, leaving a little bit of room at the top for expansion.
3. If your popsicle molds don’t come with sticks, insert a popsicle stick into each mold.
4. Place the molds in the freezer and let them freeze for several hours or overnight.
5. When the popsicles are fully frozen, remove them from the molds by running warm water over the bottom of the molds for a few seconds until they release.
6. Store the breastmilk popsicles in a labeled freezer bag or container for up to six months.
It’s important to note that breastmilk may separate when frozen, so don’t be alarmed if you notice a difference in color or texture. This is completely normal and won’t affect the quality or safety of the breastmilk popsicles.
Additional Tips
– You can add flavor to your breastmilk popsicles by mixing in a small amount of pureed fruit or a drop of vanilla extract before freezing.
– Breastmilk popsicles can also be used as a cool treat for hot summer days or as a supplement for breastfed babies who are starting to eat solid foods.
– If your baby doesn’t seem to like the texture of the frozen breastmilk, try rubbing the popsicle on their gums instead of letting them suck on it directly.
– Always supervise your baby while they’re eating a breastmilk popsicle to prevent choking.
Breastmilk popsicles are a simple and effective way to provide relief for teething babies. By using natural ingredients and avoiding added sugars, breastmilk popsicles are a healthy and safe alternative to store-bought teething remedies. Give them a try and see how they work for your little one!
Tips for Using Breastmilk Popsicles for Teething
Teething can be a painful process for babies, but breastmilk popsicles can provide relief. Here are a few tips for using breastmilk popsicles safely and effectively:
Offer Popsicles at the Right Time
It’s important to offer breastmilk popsicles at the right time. They can be given to babies once they have started solid foods and are able to handle the texture of the popsicles. Introduce one popscicle at a time to avoid overwhelming the baby.
Watch for Choking Hazards
Be sure to watch for choking hazards when giving your baby a breastmilk popsicle. Always supervise your baby and make sure they are sitting upright when eating the popsicle. Also, check the size of the popsicle to ensure it’s an appropriate size for your baby’s age and stage of development.
Store Popsicles Properly
It’s important to store breastmilk popsicles properly to maintain their quality and freshness. Use a sealable plastic bag or popsicle molds to store the popsicles in the freezer. Be sure to label the bag with the date to keep track of their expiration date.
For more information on teething, check out HealthyChildren.org.
Alternative Options for Teething Relief
While breastmilk popsicles can be an effective option for teething relief, there are other alternative methods that parents can explore. Each baby is unique, and it’s essential to find the method that works best for your little one. Below are some additional options for teething relief:
Teething Toys
There are various teething toys available on the market, ranging from silicone teethers to wooden rings. These toys are designed to be safe and gentle on your baby’s gums, providing a soothing distraction from teething pain. When selecting a teething toy, look for one made from non-toxic materials and ensure it is easy to clean.
Cold Washcloth
A simple and cost-effective option for teething relief is using a cold, damp washcloth. Dampen a clean washcloth and place it in the refrigerator for a short time to cool it down. Once chilled, give it to your baby to chew on, providing relief from sore gums. Always supervise your baby while they are using a cold washcloth to prevent choking hazards.
Massage Gums
Gently massaging your baby’s gums with a clean finger can help alleviate teething pain. Apply gentle pressure to the affected area, and be sure to keep your nails short and clean to prevent any harm to your baby’s gums.
Over-the-Counter Pain Relief
Consult with your pediatrician about using over-the-counter pain relief medication, such as infant acetaminophen or ibuprofen, to help manage teething pain. Follow your pediatrician’s recommendations and dosing instructions to ensure the medication is used safely and effectively.
Amber Teething Necklaces
Some parents swear by amber teething necklaces as a natural remedy for teething pain. These necklaces are made from Baltic amber, which is believed to release a natural painkiller called succinic acid when warmed by the baby’s body heat. However, it’s important to note that there is limited scientific evidence supporting the effectiveness of amber teething necklaces, and they can pose a choking hazard. If you choose to use an amber teething necklace, always supervise your baby and remove the necklace during sleep or when they are unattended.
Conclusion
Breastmilk popsicles serve as a practical and beneficial solution for teething infants, providing much-needed relief while offering essential nutrients. Making these popsicles is a simple process, requiring minimal equipment and effort to create a healthy, soothing treat for young ones.
The use of a high-quality mold, such as the EZPZ Tiny Pops Mold, ensures that the breastmilk popsicles are appropriately sized for infants, minimizing waste and mess. Additionally, the mold’s silicone sleeve allows for easy removal and cleaning, making it a convenient choice for busy parents.
In summary, breastmilk popsicles for teething offer numerous advantages, including relief from teething pain, essential nutrients for growing babies, and an easy-to-make snack for busy caregivers. With a quality mold in hand, parents can provide their little ones with a comforting and nutritious treat, promoting overall health and well-being during the challenging teething phase.
