5 Tips To Help Ease Baby Reflux
If you have a child that’s been diagnosed with reflux, you know how uncomfortable they can be. They have episodes of vomiting and spitting up as well as severe gas and sometimes inconsolable crying. It’s also difficult for them to fall asleep and stay asleep through the night. Many babies have trouble with certain formulas and some even have trouble gaining weight. It can be a tough road for both the child and the parents.
One of the first things you should do is see your child’s pediatrician to rule out any other conditions and to make sure your baby is properly diagnosed. Once your child has been diagnosed, follow your doctor’s recommendation as to whether or not they need to be on any prescription medicine.
There are many things that you can do to help ease your child’s reflux. By following these five tips, you can greatly reduce the effects of the reflux and help to make your baby’s first year much happier.
Breastfeeding is one of the best things you can do for your baby for many reasons. But, in the case of reflux, it really helps if you nurse. Breast milk is hypoallergenic and is easily digested, as compared to milk or soy based formulas. Many babies with reflux can’t tolerate these formulas and need to be placed on special formulas. These special formulas are more expensive which oftentimes results in added stress for the parents. Also, remember that whatever you eat, your baby is also eating. Try to eliminate foods that will make reflux worse. Dairy, caffeine, certain fruits and vegetables and foods with seeds can make reflux worse. Unfortunately it’s all trial and error until you figure out what your child can or cannot tolerate.
Positioning your baby correctly after a feeding is another thing you can do to help ease the symptoms. Wait at least 30 minutes before putting your baby down for a nap. You can prop up the crib mattress or bassinet with towels. Keeping the head elevated will help to prevent the acid from creeping back up.
Adding Rice Cereal to your baby’s diet will also help. The thickness of it will keep the fluid in their belly from coming back up. Some people add it directly to the bottle and others, like myself spoon feed it. Ask your doctor what is best.
Never over feed your child. Overfeeding will most definitely make the situation worse. Smaller, more frequent feedings are the way to go. Make sure you stop frequently during the feeding to burp them.
Massage your baby. Studies show that massaging can help relax your baby as well as improve their digestion. There are many instructional books and DVD’s out on the market showing how to massage your infant. In my opinion, you really don’t need those. Just gently stoke your baby from head to toe. You will get to learn what they like and what they don’t like. It will not only help their digestive issues but it will also be a great bonding experience for you both |
