Tag: Thickened formula

Anti-reflux (AR) formulas are specifically designed to be thicker than standard infant formulas to help reduce spit-up and reflux. This thickening agent, often rice starch, is added to the formula's composition, leading many parents to ask, "Does AR formula have more calories than standard formula?". While the ready-to-feed versions are typically isocaloric, the powder versions and specifically mixed high-calorie formulas can have increased caloric density.

Approximately two-thirds of healthy infants experience some form of gastroesophageal reflux (GER), but treating it with specialized formulas comes with potential drawbacks. Knowing what are the disadvantages of anti-reflux formulas is crucial for parents and caregivers weighing the benefits against the risks.

According to the American Academy of Pediatrics, the practice of using rice cereal to thicken feeds for infant reflux is no longer the standard due to safety concerns over inorganic arsenic. This has led many to question: is oatmeal or rice cereal better for reflux? The answer involves understanding both the benefits and risks of each option.

Prepared Gelmix-thickened feeds can be safely refrigerated for up to 24 hours, but many parents wonder: **Can you reheat Gelmix?**. The answer is yes, but following strict and proper guidelines is essential to maintain the liquid's desired thickness and, most importantly, ensure your baby's health and safety.

According to some estimates, up to 85% of infants may experience gastroesophageal reflux (GER) at least once daily. For caregivers dealing with the more subtle, non-spitting up symptoms of silent reflux, a key question arises: **Does feed thickener help silent reflux?**