How Diet Affects Infant Reflux

Diet plays a significant role in managing infant reflux. Understanding how different foods and feeding practices impact your baby’s reflux can help in finding effective solutions. For breastfed babies, mothers might consider keeping a food diary to track what they eat and how it correlates with their baby's reflux episodes. Common culprits that might exacerbate reflux include dairy, caffeine, and spicy foods.

For formula-fed babies, switching to a different type of formula might help. Some babies benefit from hydrolysed or hypoallergenic formulas, which are easier to digest and less likely to cause reflux symptoms. Always consult with a healthcare professional before making any changes to your baby's diet.

Introducing solids can also be a turning point in managing reflux. Start with gentle, easy-to-digest foods and avoid known reflux triggers like citrus fruits, tomatoes, and chocolate. Gradually introduce new foods and monitor how your baby reacts to each one.

Feeding practices also play a significant role. Offering smaller, more frequent feeds can prevent the stomach from becoming too full and reduce the likelihood of regurgitation. Keeping the baby upright during and after feeds can also help minimise reflux.

If you need help navigating dietary changes for your baby, I’m here to assist you. As a speech pathologist and certified infant reflux and feeding specialist, I can provide personalised recommendations and support to help manage your baby’s reflux effectively. Reach out to me for expert guidance.