What is the recommended method for giving breast milk to preserve nutrients?

The bolus method is recommended for giving breast milk as it mimics the natural feeding pattern of infants. This method involves delivering a specific volume of milk at given intervals, which aligns well with the physiological demand of a baby. It allows the infant to ingest larger amounts of milk at once, promoting satiation and enhancing the breast's ability to regulate milk production based on demand.

This approach also helps to preserve the nutritional quality of breast milk. Factors such as temperature and time can affect nutrient levels, particularly in vitamins and certain bioactive components. By using the bolus method, caregivers can more effectively manage the timing and conditions under which breast milk is given, minimizing potential exposure to warm temperatures or prolonged storage that could degrade nutrient quality.

In contrast, other methods like syringe feeding may not provide the same natural feeding experience or efficiency. Continuous feeding, while ensuring that infants receive a constant supply of milk, may not effectively replicate the way infants typically breastfeed, potentially leading to issues with oral feeding skills or bottle preference. Free feeding does not offer structured intervals, which might not support the optimal engagement and nutrient utilization that comes with the bolus approach.