Babies experiencing reflux require bottles that reduce the amount of air ingestion and spit-up. The correct bottle can cause feeding to be more relaxed and achievable for both the parent and the child. A perfect match may also be a reprieve to parents who would wish to make sure that their baby will not have any problems with suckling without any pain or loud crying.
What Causes Baby Reflux?
Refluxing is a common occurrence that takes place in a situation where the immature digestive system in the baby is such a way that it is open to the passage of milk flowing in reverse into the esophagus. It is normal among newborns and young infants whose stomach valves are not fully formed. The reflux usually disappears before a child reaches the age of one year. However, the resulting symptoms, including the high frequency of spit-up, arching, or fussiness following a feeding, may be stressful to the infant and the mother. These symptoms may be aggravated by air bubbles gulped in during feeding, which may cause bloating and gas.
Best Bottles for Baby Reflux: Features to Look For
In selecting bottles to use in reflux, consider characteristics that minimize air contact and the milk flow that should always be constant.
Bottle Types
Anti-colic vents and internal air systems on bottles inhibit the mixing of air with milk and reduce the gaseous accumulation. Angled-neck bottles ensure that the nipple is not emptied of milk when feeding and therefore make sure that the baby does not swallow a lot of air. Other types of bottles have collapsible liners whereby the baby is able to suck them and they behave like a natural breastfeeding flow whilst preventing the passage of air through the bottle.
Materials, Function, and Design
The other important consideration is the flow rate of the nipple. The presence of slow-flowing nipples will help in reducing choking since babies will not take too much milk at a time, which will minimize the chances of them regurgitating. Besides, the bottles crafted with the help of BPA-free and heat-resistant materials are less harmful and simpler to sterilize. Parents might also be interested in trying different shapes of the bottle-wide neck is usually associated with a more natural feeding pattern and easier latch.
Conclusion
Baby reflux is not necessarily an overwhelming task. Opting for the right bottle shape is key to a happy and well-nourished baby. Together with appropriate feeding positions, such as holding your baby so that he remains upright at and following the food, and frequent burping, the appropriate bottle can make feeding time a peaceful, connected time that is of benefit to you and to your baby as well.