How to Prevent Acid Reflux in a Baby

Infant acid reflux can be an uncomfortable battle for both parents and babies alike. Signs that your infant may have reflux include frequent spit up, projectile spit up or vomit, fussiness, and poor sleep habits, according to the Mayo Clinic. Distinguishing a normal amount of spit up from a large amount can be difficult as normal amounts may seem large to a new parent. Look for additional signs or ask your doctor for guidance. Reducing the discomfort associated with infant acid reflux can be simple. There are medications approved for pediatric use if your pediatrician agrees that your baby needs them. Try a few simple techniques at home to help calm your baby's reflux.

Things You'll Need

• Burp cloths
• Rice cereal
• Pillows

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Instructions

• 1

  Burp your baby often. Extra air in the tummy can cause your baby to spit up more. Use gentle methods of burping as you do not want to jostle your baby into spitting up. Keep burp cloths on hand for easy cleanup as a baby will spit up whether she has reflux or not. Burp after every ounce of a bottle.

• 2

  Check the flow of the bottle's nipple. A baby may spit up more if he is taking too much food too quickly. Look for slow flow nipples.

• 3

  Add rice cereal to your baby's milk or formula but only if your doctor approves of this. Thickening the formula or milk may help it stay down longer.

• 4

  Keep baby elevated after every meal as this will make it more difficult for food to find its way back up the esophagus.

• 5

  Prop up the mattress to your baby's crib with pillows. A slight incline may help keep the contents of the tummy down during sleep.