Breastfeeding is the healthiest way to feed a young baby, according to Dr. Bill Sears, pediatrician and professor at University of California at Irvine. He states that breast milk contains enzymes and anti-viral agent that help to reduce a baby's risk of infections, while boosting brain development. Though breastfeeding is healthy for babies, it isn't always easy for mothers. Some babies develop gastroesophogeal reflux disease, or GERD, which can make it challenging for the mother to continue breastfeeding the baby.
GERD Definition
Gastroesophogeal reflux disease is condition that occurs when the contents of the stomach come back up the esophagus. GERD can cause a painful, burning sensation in the esophagus and throat so babies with GERD tend to be extra fussy. According to La Leche League International, the main cause of GERD is the relaxation of the lower esophageal sphincter, a barrier between the stomach and esophagus. La Leche League explains that many babies with GERD will vomit frequently and have trouble gaining enough weight.
Breastfeeding Benefits for GERD
Kelly Bonyata, International Board-Certified Lactation Consultant (IBCLC), explains on her website that babies who are breastfed are actually less likely to experience GERD than babies who are formula-fed. Kelly recommends that breastfeeding mothers do not quit nursing just because their baby has a diagnosis of GERD. Instead, she suggests to continue breastfeeding exclusively if possible and to use formula as little as possible if combination-feeding with both breast milk and formula. Breast milk is emptied out of the stomach faster than formula, according to Bonyata, so it is less likely to come back up the esophagus.
Thickened Feeds
Some doctors recommend that women provide thickened feeds to babies with gastroesophageal reflux disease. Adding a few tablespoons of baby rice cereal to formula or breast milk is an example of a thickened feed, which is said to reduce reflux problems since thicker liquids may not come up the esophagus as often. La Leche League International states that thickened feeds don't always reduce reflux however, and can actually hinder breastfeeding because the baby gets more used to the bottle and less used to the breast. Additionally, La Leche League warns that thickened feeds may increase a baby's risk of choking.
Positioning
One way to help reduce reflux in babies is to change the breastfeeding position. Kelly Bonyata, IBCLC, recommends nursing the baby while the baby sits semi-upright rather than lying flat on her back. The more upright a baby is, the more gravity can work to keep the contents of the stomach down. Another position that can benefit babies with GERD is tummy-to-tummy, where the baby lies, tummy-down and back up, on top of mom's tummy as the mom leans just slightly back in a chair or bed.
