Moms Bake Breast Milk into Family Foods to Combat Cold and Flu Season
A growing trend sees mothers incorporating their own milk into baked goods and other recipes, citing immune-boosting benefits.
As the colder months approach, a growing number of mothers are turning to an unconventional ingredient in their home kitchens: their own breast milk. This practice, shared across social media platforms, involves incorporating breast milk into family recipes like cupcakes, pancakes, and mac-and-cheese, with the aim of bolstering their families' immune systems against seasonal illnesses.
Camille Smith, a mother of four from Dallas, Texas, gained attention for her TikTok video showing her adding breast milk to a Funfetti cupcake mix. She captioned the footage, "Breast milk cures everything." While some online commenters expressed disgust, others praised her approach as "genius" and referred to the milk as "liquid gold."
Breast milk is known to contain antibodies, macronutrients, vitamins, and immune-protective components that benefit infants. However, mothers are now exploring its use for older children and even adults, believing it can help remedy various ailments.
Some research suggests potential benefits beyond basic immunity. A study from China indicated that school-aged children who were breastfed for longer periods performed better academically in mathematics and language arts compared to those who were weaned earlier. Bodybuilders have also reportedly purchased breast milk online, hoping for muscle-building benefits.
Despite the enthusiasm from proponents, health authorities offer cautionary advice. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) warns that heating breast milk, such as during baking or microwaving, can degrade some of its beneficial nutrients. Nonetheless, many mothers who incorporate breast milk into food preparation feel confident in its effectiveness.
Other mothers have shared similar practices online. Allie Keily, a mother of two, cooks her breast milk into dishes like mac-and-cheese for her children during cold and flu season. Another mother, McKenzie, shared a video of herself making a "titty milk chocolate shake" for a sick family member, claiming it as a natural remedy. "Tammy," who identifies as a "ghoul mom," created "immunity pancakes" using breast milk, asserting that the creation would safeguard her family from illness.