Is my breast milk giving my baby acid reflux?

Understanding Acid Reflux in Breastfed Babies
If you’re concerned that your breast milk might be causing your baby to experience acid reflux, it’s essential to understand the nature of reflux in infants and the factors that contribute to it. Acid reflux, or gastroesophageal reflux (GER), is a common condition in babies, particularly those under three months old. In fact, studies suggest that up to 40-50% of infants in this age group regurgitate their feeds at least once a day.
The Role of Breast Milk
Breast milk is generally considered the best source of nutrition for infants, and it is less likely to cause reflux compared to formula. However, certain factors related to breastfeeding practices can influence reflux symptoms. For instance, overfeeding can lead to reflux, as can feeding too frequently. While breastfed babies are less prone to overfeeding than those who are bottle-fed, it can still happen, especially if the baby is allowed to feed for extended periods without breaks.
Feeding Techniques and Positioning
The way you feed your baby can also impact reflux. Effective latching is crucial; if a baby is not latching properly, they may swallow air, which can exacerbate reflux symptoms. Additionally, the position in which you feed your baby matters. Babies who are frequently laid down after feeding may experience more reflux due to gravity not helping to keep the milk down in their stomachs.
Maternal Diet Considerations
While breast milk itself is not typically a direct cause of reflux, the mother’s diet can play a role. Certain foods consumed by breastfeeding mothers may affect the composition of breast milk and potentially contribute to reflux symptoms in sensitive infants. Foods that are spicy, acidic, or high in fat can sometimes lead to digestive discomfort for babies. If you suspect that your diet might be influencing your baby’s reflux, consider keeping a food diary to identify any correlations.
When to Seek Help
If your baby is experiencing frequent or severe reflux, it may be worth consulting a pediatrician. They can help determine whether your baby’s symptoms are typical reflux or if they might indicate a more serious condition, such as gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD).
In summary, while breast milk is generally safe and beneficial for infants, various factors—including feeding techniques, maternal diet, and the baby’s individual sensitivity—can influence the occurrence of acid reflux. If reflux symptoms persist or worsen, seeking professional advice is always a prudent step.

What foods cause acid reflux in breastfed babies?

Citrus fruit, tomatoes, caffeine containing drinks (tea, coffee, coke) and chocolate may also need to be avoided by the breast-feeding mother of a reflux baby. Remember that all babies are different and different babies react to different foods – the list above is a guideline only.

How I cured my baby’s reflux breastfeeding?

Helping your baby with reflux

1. get advice about your baby’s breastfeeding position.
2. hold your baby upright during feeding and for as long as possible after feeding.
3. burp (or wind) your baby regularly during feeds.
4. make sure your baby sleeps flat on their back (they should not sleep on their side or front)

What foods cause acidic poop in breastfed babies?

Acidic foods to avoid

• Citrus fruits and juices.
• Tomatoes and tomato-based products (this includes foods like spaghetti sauce)
• Strawberries.
• Pineapple.
• Grapes.
• Raisins.

How do I know if my breastmilk is upsetting my baby’s stomach?

Monitor your diet closely if you’re breastfeeding. If you feel there are certain foods that might be upsetting your baby’s stomach, try avoiding them for a while. If you notice weight loss, forceful spit up, fussiness or other symptoms, talk to your child’s pediatrician about your concerns.

What triggers acid reflux in babies?

Some factors that contribute to infant reflux are common in babies and often can’t be avoided. These include lying flat most of the time and being fed an almost completely liquid diet. Sometimes, infant reflux can be caused by more-serious conditions, such as: GERD.

How do you know if breast milk is not agreeing with baby?

If your baby shows negative symptoms after drinking breast milk. Consider how your baby responds to breast milk after drinking it. If symptoms occur such as fussiness, irritability, crying, gas, increased spitting up and/or drawing their legs up due to tummy pain, write down everything you ate that day.

What can I take for acid reflux while breastfeeding?

Antacid and alginate preparations
There is extensive experience of use of antacids during breastfeeding and they are considered first-line options for managing heartburn or dyspepsia. Alginates and simeticone are also considered acceptable for use during breastfeeding.

Can breast milk irritate a baby’s stomach?

“There’s just not enough food proteins in breast milk to cause such a reaction. But there is enough to cause gut issues.” If your child is allergic to cow’s milk, for them to experience symptoms of an allergic reaction, they would have to drink cow’s milk on their own.

Can breastfeeding cause heartburn for mom?

Gastroesophageal reflux (GER) or heartburn is common during pregnancy, probably because of a decrease in lower esophageal sphincter tone caused by progesterone. It usually resolves after delivery, but may persist into the lactation period in some individuals, and occasional heartburn is common in everyone.

Can babies get acid reflux from breast milk?

Breastfed babies are less likely to develop reflux and even if they do the intensity may be less severe. Mothers need to be counselled that breast milk is not causing reflux and breast milk is the best possible food for babies until they are six month old.