Why does my breast milk give my baby reflux?

Understanding Reflux in Breastfed Babies
Breastfeeding is often lauded for its numerous benefits, but some mothers may find themselves grappling with an unexpected challenge: their baby’s reflux. This condition, characterized by the regurgitation of milk during or shortly after feeding, can be distressing for both the infant and the caregiver. Understanding the underlying causes of reflux in breastfed babies can help parents navigate this common issue.
The Nature of Reflux
Reflux occurs when the contents of the stomach flow back into the esophagus. In infants, this is often due to an immature digestive system. Babies have a weaker lower esophageal sphincter (LES), the muscle that acts as a valve between the esophagus and stomach. This muscle is not fully developed in newborns, making them more susceptible to gastroesophageal reflux. As a result, it is not uncommon for babies to spit up or regurgitate milk, especially after feeds.
Factors Contributing to Reflux
Several factors can exacerbate reflux in breastfed infants:
1. Feeding Position and Technique: The way a baby is fed can significantly impact reflux. If a baby is not latching effectively or is fed in a position that does not support gravity, it can lead to increased regurgitation. Feeding in a more upright position may help reduce the likelihood of reflux.
2. Milk Flow Rate: A fast milk flow can overwhelm a baby’s ability to swallow, leading to choking or gasping, which can increase the chances of reflux. Mothers with an oversupply of milk may notice that their baby struggles to keep up with the flow, resulting in more frequent spit-ups.
3. Growth Spurts: During periods of rapid growth, babies may feed more frequently and consume larger volumes of milk. This can lead to a fuller stomach and increased pressure on the LES, making reflux more likely.
4. Dietary Influences: While breast milk is generally well-tolerated, certain foods consumed by the breastfeeding mother can affect the milk’s composition. High-fat foods, for instance, may relax the LES, allowing stomach contents to reflux more easily.
5. Gravity and Lifestyle Changes: Modern parenting practices often involve keeping babies in a reclined position for extended periods, which can hinder the natural gravitational forces that help keep milk down in the stomach.
Managing Reflux
For parents dealing with a breastfed baby who experiences reflux, there are several strategies that may help alleviate the symptoms:
– Adjust Feeding Positions: Experimenting with different feeding positions can make a significant difference. Keeping the baby upright during and after feeds can help reduce reflux episodes.
– Monitor Milk Flow: If fast flow is an issue, mothers can try nursing in a laid-back position or taking breaks during feeding to allow the baby to catch up.
– Timing Between Feeds: Allowing adequate time between feeds can help ensure that the baby’s stomach is not overly full, which can contribute to reflux.
– Consult Healthcare Providers: If reflux persists or is accompanied by other concerning symptoms, it is essential to consult a pediatrician. They can provide guidance tailored to the baby’s specific needs.
Conclusion
While reflux can be a challenging aspect of breastfeeding, understanding its causes and implementing practical strategies can help manage the condition. With patience and support, many families find ways to navigate this common issue, ensuring that both mother and baby can enjoy the benefits of breastfeeding.

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.

How do you stop acid reflux in breastfed babies?

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)

Is reflux worse in breastfed babies?

Formulas that claim to help with reflux lack these factors. They only differ from standard formula because they have thickener added. Reflux is about as common in formula-fed babies as in breastfed babies. However, reflux episodes in formula-fed babies tend to happen more often and last longer.

Why is my breast milk causing reflux?

Some babies can become distracted when feeding at the breast, pulling off to look around. This can cause babies to swallow air and spit up more often. Breastmilk oversupply or forceful let-down (milk ejection reflex) can cause reflux-like symptoms in babies.

Does mother’s diet affect baby reflux?

Sometimes, an elimination trial of dairy from the mother’s diet can help reduce baby reflux; keeping a food diary can help spot patterns in case there are any other food intolerances to be considered. Elimination diets are best done with support from a health professional.

What foods make your breast milk acidic?

Over time, however, eating or drinking acidic foods and beverages — such as soda; alcohol; caffeine; grains, including millet, rice, oatmeal, rye pastas and flour; as well as nuts — can compromise these buffering systems.

What is the best breastfeeding hold for reflux?

The best breastfeeding positions for babies with reflux are the ones where they are upright. The most common and most recommended one is the koala position, but the laid-back position is also great.

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

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. This lets you carefully look at your diet instead of getting rid of foods that may not be the cause of your baby’s distress.

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 do I know if my baby is intolerant to my breast milk?

Fussiness before eating because of hunger, during the feeding and then more fussy as they become more uncomfortable can be common. “Children with MSPI may cry 18 hours or more a day and may develop weight loss, congestion, repeated vomiting, reflux, and certain kinds of skin rashes.