Baby Reflux Explained: Causes, Symptoms & Natural Ways to Help

Feeding your baby should be a peaceful, bonding experience—but if your little one is spitting up often, crying during feeds, or arching their back in discomfort, it can feel frustrating and even a little scary. Baby reflux is incredibly common, especially in the first few months, and while it’s usually nothing to worry about, knowing what causes it and how to soothe your baby can bring comfort to both of you.

Let’s explore why reflux happens—and the gentle ways you can help your baby feel better.

What Is Baby Reflux?

Baby reflux, or gastroesophageal reflux (GER), occurs when milk or formula flows back up from the stomach into the esophagus. This happens because the muscle at the bottom of the esophagus (the lower esophageal sphincter) isn’t fully developed yet, so it may allow food to come back up easily.

While reflux can cause some temporary discomfort, most babies outgrow it by the time they turn one as their digestive system matures.

What Causes Baby Reflux?

There are several reasons a baby may experience reflux:

• Immature Digestive System – In newborns, the muscle that keeps food in the stomach is still developing.

• Poor Latch During Breastfeeding – If your baby isn’t latching correctly, they may swallow air or not feed efficiently, both of which can contribute to reflux symptoms.

• Overfeeding or Fast Feeding – Feeding large amounts or too quickly can overwhelm a small stomach.

• Lying Flat After Feeding – Without gravity helping to keep milk down, it can easily flow back up.

• Food Sensitivities – Some babies react to cow’s milk protein or certain foods in a breastfeeding parent’s diet.

• Swallowing Air While Feeding – This can lead to pressure in the stomach and more frequent spit-up.

• Incorrect Bottle Teat Flow – A teat that flows too quickly can cause your baby to gulp, swallow air, and become overwhelmed during feeding.

Common Symptoms of Reflux in Babies

Spitting up now and then is normal, but you should take note if your baby:

• Spits up frequently or forcefully
• Seems fussy, especially after feeding
• Arches their back or pulls away during feeding
• Struggles to gain weight
• Has persistent coughing, gagging, or wheezing

If you’re concerned, speak with your pediatrician to rule out more serious conditions like gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD).

How to Help a Baby with Reflux

Here are some gentle ways to manage baby reflux and make feeding time more comfortable:

• Keep your baby upright after feeds – Holding them upright for 20 to 30 minutes can help reduce backflow.

• Feed smaller amounts more often – This can prevent the stomach from becoming too full.

• Burp frequently during and after feeds – Releasing trapped air can reduce pressure on the stomach.

• Avoid tight clothing or diapers – Pressure around the belly can make reflux worse.

• Elevate the head of the crib slightly – Only if recommended by your doctor, use a slight incline under the mattress to help reduce reflux at night (never use pillows or wedges directly under the baby).

Natural Remedies for Baby Reflux

Many parents find that natural options provide extra support:

• Probiotics – A healthy balance of gut bacteria can help improve digestion and reduce symptoms.

• Homeopathic remedies – Natural drops designed to ease infant reflux and digestive discomfort. One great option is BabyNature Reflux Drops from Feelgood Health. Formulated with gentle herbal ingredients, these drops help relieve indigestion, acid reflux, and regurgitation in babies—without any artificial preservatives or additives.

• Gripe water – A traditional herbal remedy often used to soothe gas and bloating.

When to Seek Medical Advice

In some cases, reflux may be a sign of a more serious issue. Contact your pediatrician if your baby:

• Refuses to feed or shows signs of pain while feeding
• Has poor weight gain or weight loss
• Vomits forcefully or with green/yellow fluid
• Has blood in their vomit or stool

Early support can help ease your concerns and get your baby the care they need.

Baby reflux can be upsetting, especially when all you want is for your little one to feel comfortable and content. Thankfully, for most babies, it’s just a phase—and with a few adjustments to feeding routines and the help of gentle, natural remedies, you can ease your baby’s discomfort and support their digestion. Trust your instincts, ask questions, and know that you're not alone on this journey.

Featured Products:

• BabyNature Reflux Drops

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