What triggers reflux in babies?

Understanding Reflux in Babies
Reflux, commonly referred to as gastroesophageal reflux (GER), is a condition where food from a baby’s stomach flows back into the esophagus. This phenomenon can lead to symptoms such as spitting up or vomiting, which, while often alarming for parents, is typically harmless and a normal part of infant development. In fact, studies indicate that about 50% of all babies experience frequent spitting up during their first three months of life .
What Triggers Reflux?
Several factors contribute to the occurrence of reflux in infants. One primary trigger is the immaturity of the lower esophageal sphincter (LES), the muscle that separates the stomach from the esophagus. In many babies, this muscle is not fully developed, allowing stomach contents to escape back into the esophagus more easily. This condition is particularly prevalent in premature infants, whose digestive systems are still maturing.
Another significant factor is overfeeding. Babies have small stomachs, and when they consume more than they can hold, the excess food can push back up into the esophagus. This is why feeding smaller amounts more frequently can help mitigate reflux symptoms.
Additionally, certain positions during feeding can exacerbate reflux. For instance, lying flat while feeding can increase the likelihood of reflux, as gravity does not assist in keeping the stomach contents down. Parents are often advised to keep their babies in an upright position during and after feedings to help reduce the risk.
Silent Reflux
In some cases, reflux may not present with the typical symptoms of spitting up. This condition, known as silent reflux, occurs when the stomach contents return to the esophagus without visible regurgitation. Instead, babies may exhibit signs of discomfort, such as irritability, arching of the back, or feeding difficulties. Recognizing silent reflux can be challenging, but it is crucial for parents to be aware of these subtler symptoms.
Conclusion
While reflux is a common occurrence in infants, understanding its triggers can help parents manage the condition effectively. Most babies outgrow reflux by the age of 18 months, but during this period, strategies such as adjusting feeding practices and positioning can provide relief. If symptoms persist or worsen, consulting a pediatrician is advisable to rule out more serious conditions like gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD).

How did I cured my baby’s reflux naturally?

Feed your baby in an upright position.
Then, hold your baby in a sitting position for 30 minutes after feeding. Gravity can help stomach contents stay where they belong. Be careful not to jostle or jiggle your baby while the food is settling.

What are the root causes of baby reflux?

What causes GER & GERD in infants? Experts think several factors lead to GER in infants. For example, in the first 6 months of life, infants spend much of their time lying down and do not have a fully developed esophagus and lower esophageal sphincter.

What worsens reflux in babies?

Feeding your baby too much can make reflux symptoms worse. Their doctor or health care provider will tell you how much they should be eating with each feed. If vomiting or reflux symptoms occur, give less at each feeding.

What time of day is reflux worse for babies?

Reflux can be worse at night for 3 reasons (3): Acid concentration in the stomach is higher at night. The baby is likely lying down, so there is no assistance from gravity to help keep the contents of the stomach down. While sleeping we don’t swallow.

How can I stop my baby’s reflux?

Feeding changes may help your baby’s reflux and GERD:

1. Add rice cereal to your baby’s bottle of formula or breastmilk.
2. Burp your baby after every 1 to 2 ounces of formula.
3. Avoid overfeeding; give your baby the amount of formula or breast milk recommended.
4. Hold your baby upright for 30 minutes after feedings.

Does tummy time help with reflux?

Tummy time is important for babies.
As their tum my muscles get stronger, they will have less reflux. It can be hard to find a good time for tummy time play because you may be worr ied your baby will reflux.

What can be mistaken for reflux in babies?

Colic and silent reflux are two very difficult conditions to deal with in your baby’s early stages of development. Both of these conditions are extremely common in newborns and share some similar symptoms, hence why they are often confused with one another.

What foods should babies with acid reflux avoid?

The foods that can make reflux pain worse for a baby/child are:

• Fruit and fruit juice, especially oranges, apples and bananas.
• Tomatoes and tomato sauce.
• Chocolate.
• Tea and coffee.
• Spicy Foods.
• Fizzy drinks (especially coke)
• Fatty foods (i.e. fish and chips!!)

Can mother’s diet cause reflux in babies?

GERD in Breastfed Babies
In infants who are exclusively breastfed, the baby may be reacting to traces of milk protein in the mother’s milk, or to other foods in the mother’s diet. Mothers may try eliminating dairy from their diet to see if that helps.

How did I cured my baby’s reflux?

What treatment is available for reflux?

1. Give your baby skin-to-skin after a feed, to allow the food to settle.
2. For some babies it is helpful for them to be fed in different positions.
3. Keep your baby’s head gently raised during the day, especially after a feed.
4. Change your baby’s nappy before feeding.