The Babyzone website states that about half of all infants are born with acid reflux. Acid reflux occurs when the sphincter of the lower esophagus does not close properly. This allows food and stomach acid to come back up. Symptoms may include vomiting, coughing, irritability, difficulty feeding and even blood in the stool. Although acid reflux can turn into a serious medical condition, there are several ways to manage it naturally right from home.
Small Meals
According to the Children's Hospital Boston, acid reflux can be remedied by feeding your infant smaller, more frequent meals. This is because smaller feedings may be easier for your baby's digestive system to handle.
Frequent Burpings
The Babyzone website recommends frequent burpings to combat acid reflux. Burp your infant after only one or two ozs of milk. If you breastfeed, burp your baby before switching to the opposite breast.
Add Rice Cereal
If you feed your baby via a bottle, the AskDrSears website suggests adding a few tablespoons of rice cereal for every 8 oz of formula. Thickening the formula reduces the chances of it sloshing back up into the esophagus. Be sure to get a doctor's approval before trying this method. The Dr Greene website warns that introducing solids before four months old can result in a food allergy.
Keep Upright
The AskDrSears wesite says that acid reflux symptoms can be reduced if you keep your baby in an upright position for at least a half hour after eating. This will give the formula or breast milk time to settle in the stomach. As long as she is supervised, you can prop baby up against pillows or in a baby seat. Or carry her around in a sling or baby carrier. Not only will this keep her upright, it will reduce her chances of crying. Infants experience more acid reflux when crying.
Adjust Sleeping Position
Although a baby should generally be put to bed on his back, the AskDrSears website suggests talking to your pediatrician about adjusting his sleeping position. Put your baby to sleep on his stomach to alleviate acid reflux symptoms. In addition, try propping him up slightly by elevating the top of his crib by about 30 degrees.
