If your baby is formula fed and is showing signs of reflux, there are a few changes you can make that may make a big difference. The purpose of a formula change in a reflux baby is two-fold. Firstly, if you thicken the formula it’s more likely to stay in baby’s tummy. Secondly, a formula that helps rest a busy digestive system can improve the overall state of the gut and digestive health.
We would always recommend speaking to a health professional about your baby’s health before changing a formula to ensure you are selecting the most appropriate formula for your baby.
The first option is to stay on the current regular formula and add a little Gaviscon to thicken it. By adding Gaviscon yourself you can control the consistency of the feed and adjust it to suit your baby. Some babies can become constipated when a thickener or thickened formula is used. If this happens, just reduce the amount of Gaviscon in each feed or reduce the number of feeds to which you add the Gaviscon. If it does not resolve the constipation, discontinue the Gaviscon.
The next option is a pre-thickened Anti-Reflux formula. Most brands now have their own version of an AR Formula. Read the instructions carefully as some formulas have very specific instructions for making it up. It’s also worth mentioning that you should never add a thickener like Gaviscon or Carobel to an AR formula.
If baby is also a little crampy or windy, a Comfort formula may be a good choice. These formulas are slightly thicker that regular formulas, have a reduced amount of lactose sugar and partially broken-down Cow’s Milk Proteins. As a result, they can help a stressed digestive system by reducing the workload.
Any thickened formula will require a faster flowing teat, or you will end up with a baby who is exhausted after half their feed and awake again an hour later looking for more!
Again, all reflux babies rely on the upright position immediately after their feed for at least 30 minutes, maybe longer. * * *
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