Feeding babies with gastroesophageal reflux

Gastroesophageal reflux is a disease that causes the rise of stomach contents through the esophagus to the mouth. It is very common in newborns and young children, affecting between 1 and 8% of nursing babies. This ailment, which can have consequences for the respiratory tract and cause esophageal d

Gastroesophageal reflux is a disease that causes the rise of stomach contents through the esophagus to the mouth. It is very common in newborns and young children, affecting between 1 and 8% of nursing babies.

This ailment, which can have consequences for the respiratory tract and cause esophageal damage, is also of great importance in the issue of infant feeding, since vomiting and regurgitation can cause nutritional problems.

Breastfeeding for babies with gastroesophageal reflux

It must be taken into account that gastroesophageal reflux is only considered pathological if it is maintained once the baby reaches six months, but the nutritional recommendations must be maintained before and after this date if there is such a problem

The National Institute of Pediatrics of Mexico (INP) recommends first maintaining breastfeeding for the necessary time, since the mother's milk contains the adequate energy needs and has a rapid gastric emptying decreasing the number of refluxes.

To reduce reflux, the mother will keep the baby upright and, without moving it much, after each feeding. Also, try to burp several times .Feeding children with gastroesophageal reflux

When six months have passed, new foods should begin to be included, and in the case of maintaining breast milk or using formula milk, it can thicken. To do this,

cereals or gums utilizan are used, which reduce irritability and vomiting. If it is thick with cereals, an amount between 5 and 12% should be added, using oats or corn. The gums recommended by the INP are g guar or carob g gums. This thickening technique should not be prolonged because it increases the cases of obesity, diarrhea and constipation. Other recommendations to feed babies with this discomfort are the use of

anti-reflux formulas , avoid giving the small broths, juices or tea, keep food at room temperature and avoid fats and solid irritating foods such as tomatoes, spices, the condiments or the chocolate.Sources:

National Institute of Pediatrics of Mexico Patricia García. Editor of GuiaInfantil.com