During my recent seminar in London (regarding care of babies and children), one topic discussed was acid reflux in babies. Also the importance of tummy time and your babies growth and development was  reviewed. Lets talk about tummy time first!! Why is it so important?

Tummy Time

Tummy time is vital for your developing baby. Remember that your baby needs tummy time to help strengthen their neck and back muscles. You can start with just a few seconds of tummy time from the age of three weeks old. For example, while changing the baby’s nappy roll your baby on the stomach for just a few moments. From six weeks you could increase the amount of time to 30 seconds. If at all possible lie on the floor with them and your baby will be encouraged to lift their head up so they can see you. Mammy or Daddy is more interesting than the changing mat or carpet!!!

Note: if your baby does not appear to like lying on their tummy, consider having them checked out for any small imbalances in their spine/nervous system which could be contributing to their discomfort.

Acid Reflux

Another topic discussed and reviewed was acid reflux in the infant. Reflux often tends to get worse around four months of age and generally by 12-18 months resolves by itself. Acid reflux in the infant is often a common cause of refusal to eat or being picky. The baby starts to associate eating with discomfort.

If you find your baby is suffering with reflux, nurse in a 30- 40 degrees upright position during feeding to help with this. Maintain the position for 30 minutes after feeds also, this can decrease the amount of reflux. Or perhaps following a feed place your baby on an incline of 30 degrees (wedged cushion), this may help reduce regurgitation as gravity helps keep the stomach contents down.

Simple points such as a tight elastic around the waist and keeping nappies snug but not tight on your baby can help. Consider how you would feel when eating your dinner. If your waistband was too tight around a full stomach, you would loosen it. A final point is to also consider visiting a Homeopath. They can assist with safe and effective homeopathic remedies. A Naturopath can also guide you on which foods will exacerbate acidity or reflux issues.

Click here for more information and ways to help care for your baby and their development.