Regurgitation in babies is one of the most common causes of mothers visiting the pharmacy in search of something that can solve the problem. It is very common and not serious.
Babies often spit up after eating because their digestive systems are not fully developed. Known as acid reflux or gastroesophageal reflux (GER), this condition rarely causes problems and usually goes away as the little one gets older. However, extreme symptoms of acid reflux may indicate another problem, such as gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD).
What causes spit-up in babies?
The baby's gastrointestinal system (particularly the lower esophageal sphincter) is still developing. Because your stomach may not be working properly, the contents sometimes back up into your esophagus, causing regurgitation or vomiting. Acid reflux is common among healthy babies and, unless it interferes with eating or well-being, parents should have little cause for concern.
Still, there are methods to prevent regurgitation.
Natural remedies for acid reflux in babies
If your baby is showing signs of reflux, consider these natural remedies for the digestive problem.
Breastfeed, if possible.
Breastfeeding is best for a baby with reflux, as babies digest milk twice as fast as formula. If breastfeeding is not possible, talk to your doctor about which formula is best for your baby. Sometimes, switch to a hypoallergenic or lactose-free option can help relieve symptoms.
Keep the baby upright after feeding.
Keeping the baby in a sitting position during feedings, and for at least 20 minutes afterwards, can prevent food from traveling up the esophagus.
Give frequent but small meals.
This will be easier on the baby's stomach and will also decrease reflux because there is less to spit up. Some babies with reflux prefer to eat this way; others get cranky if they don't get their full feed right away. However, after a few days, the baby should adjust to this new schedule, so she tries to stick to it.
Belching frequently.
Stop feeding the baby every 60 ml to burp. Burping will release gas and relieve reflux symptoms. If your baby burps or burps, I advise you to read the following article: My baby does not burp.
Delay play time after meals.
Avoid making the baby play immediately after feeding; all that movement increases the chance of spitting up or vomiting.
Avoid tight diapers and clothing.
Tight clothing can put extra pressure on your baby's tummy and make him especially fussy.
Change your diet.
Some foods, such as dairy products or gas-inducing vegetables like cabbage, can increase reflux. Consider eliminating these items from your diet if you are breastfeeding.
Check the size of the nipple.
A bottle-fed baby can swallow too much air if the nipple is too small or too large.
It thickens the baby's milk.
Some pediatricians recommend adding a little rice cereal to formula or expressed milk to make it easier to digest. This will also slow down the baby's intake. Talk to your doctor before trying this method, as rice cereal adds extra calories.
Medical treatment for regurgitation
In most cases, acid reflux in babies will disappear with natural remedies. However, if your baby's reflux doesn't improve, or even worsens, talk to your pediatrician. According to Dr Greene, “Usually we only use medication if the child is not growing well, has Chronic cough or shortness of breath, or seems to be in pain, not just from regurgitating."
While no drug is completely free of side effects, you can be sure that many of the more common medications given for acid reflux are very safe and effective. And since most babies outgrow acid reflux before their first birthday, they usually don't need to take medication for long.
Acid reducers are usually the first choice, with proton pump inhibitors reserved for the most severe cases. According to Dr Greene, “Whether the benefits outweigh possible side effects depends on the severity of the symptoms.”