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Baby Boy Sprout went on medication for reflux at 4 months. It’s been a long and difficult road. Between ages 6 months to 9 months, Baby Boy Sprout didn’t gain a pound.

We changed meds several times (Zantac to Prevacid) and had a number of diagnostic tests (barium swallow and impedence montior). And from these tests, it was confirmed that he had acid reflux and also had a hyper-sensitive gag.

Here are some tips if you’re dealing with acid reflux:

(1) feed often but small amounts. While this is time consuming, it helps not to fill baby’s tummy in one feeding.
(2) burp often. Most infants with reflux, may also be colic. Burping helps move the gas out of the body.
(3) infant massage. Along with burping, infant massage is a good way to move gas out of baby’s body. I would very gently push Baby Boy Sprout’s knees into his tummy and most often, he would pass gas. Please do this as carefully and gently as possible.
(4) if you’re nursing, try cutting out dairy and caffeine. Both can irriate the baby’s digestive system.
(5) if you’re not nursing, try a soy-based formula. Soy tends to be more gentle on the system.
(6) After feedings, keep baby upright for at least 30 minutes. We struggled with this, especially during night-time feeds. I took our boppy and wore it around my waist. Then, I placed Baby Boy Sprout on it, while his body rested on my chest. This helped prevent him from slipping while I fell asleep. In addition, I placed him in his carseat which I placed in his crib. Surprisingly, he loved his swing, which kept him upright. Since then, I’ve discovered the Acid Reflux Pillow Wedge.

As your infant grows, if reflux is still an issue, avoid feeding toddler certain foods. This site has a detailed list of such foods.

I’ve found that parents of children with reflux are the only ones who can truly understand the frustrations that come along with childhood reflux. And it is frustrating. Finding a support group or other parents experiencing infant GERD will help. Support groups may also be found through your Pediatrian and your local hospital.

The good news is that if your child hasn’t overcome reflux by 2 years old (or earlier), he/she eventually will. At 4 years old, Baby Boy Sprout is finally off the meds.

How do you cope with your little one(s) reflux? Any other tips to share?

Happy Eating - Mama Sprout

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