How to Reduce Infant Spit Up

by Lyn Lomasi, Write W.A.V.E. Media Staff

Image © Lyn Lomasi; All Rights Reserved

If you have an infant or are caring for one, you are likely going to deal with spit up at one time or another. That is simply a part of caring for a baby. Chances are you realize that and are looking for information on how to reduce spit up, not eliminate it (which probably won't happen). As a mom and former nanny, here’s what I've learned about how to reduce infant spit up.

Burp Baby Frequently

Sometimes gas can be the cause of spitting up. Making sure to burp baby frequently during and after feedings could help reduce infant spit up. Burping baby frequently can also help prevent other issues and keep baby happy. If burping isn’t working, ask your pediatrician if it’s safe to try Little Remedies infant gas drops. These are usually safe for babies of all ages.

Avoid Cow's Milk

Cow's milk is not recommended for infants. In addition to spit up, feeding cow's milk to infants will not provide adequate nutrition and can cause other health issues. Help reduce infant spit up by avoiding cow's milk until the age recommended by your child's pediatrician. Infants from newborn to 12 months should only drink formula or breastmilk. Solid foods can be introduced as mentioned below.

Be Cautious with Solid Foods

Introducing solid foods to a baby's diet before the stomach is ready can sometimes cause excess spit up. Parents can try to reduce infant spit up by waiting until at least 4 months of age to introduce anything other than breastmilk or formula. This is best for baby for a variety of reasons.

Choose the Correct Formula or Eat Healthier

Sometimes a baby may spit up due to certain types of formula. It may be due to an allergy of that formula or just a sensitivity issue. Breastfeeding mothers may need to adjust their diet to one that better agrees with their infant’s sensitive stomach. With proper research and advice from the pediatrician, parents can help reduce infant spit up.

Use the Correct Feeding Positions

A baby needs to be in a certain position while feeding. The head and chest should be slightly elevated. The baby also needs to latch onto the bottle nipple or breast in such a way that reduces air bubbles. Air bubbles can cause gas, which can, in turn cause spit up. There are also specially designed nipples and bottles for this purpose. Try a Boppy nursing pillow and positioner for correct feeding positions every time, whether a baby is breast or bottle fed. If none of this is working, parents can help to reduce infant spit up by consulting with a pediatrician for the proper feeding techniques.

Breastfeed to Reduce Infant Spit Up

If you can breastfeed, it’s of course a good idea. But it’s understandably not a possibility for everyone. I've heard some moms claim their breastfed infants are less likely to spit up as formula fed infants. I have yet to find any solid, published opinions on this from medical experts, but since breastfeeding has many other proven benefits, it is worth a try if you’re able.

-- Note that the author is not a licensed medical professional. The above is provided for informational purposes. Always consult a licensed medical professional for any advice pertaining to health matters.

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