ACID REFLUX IN KIDS: IDENTIFYING/ALTERNATIVE TREATMENTS

Acid Reflux in Kids: Identifying | Alternative Treatments

By Sasha Brown
Posted Friday, May 8, 2015 at 03:46pm EDT

Identify Acid Reflux

Since your child won’t be much help (other than ‘it hurts’), it’s best to get an understanding of the symptoms and signs that come with acid reflux. In children, they typically experience stomach issues, vomiting, heartburn, breathing issues and weight loss. Some children with acid reflux will display wheezing, sore throats and regularly catch pneumonia. If your baby is suffering from acid reflux, they will spit up more often than the usually do, and may seem colicky.

According to the National Digestive Diseases Information Clearinghouse, most children experience this condition because their gastrointestinal tract is still undeveloped. Children can often outgrow it during development, though there are other factors to consider, such as overeating, caffeine, spicy food, some medications, and obesity.

Natural Acid Reflux Treatments for Children

While you should always take your child to the doctor to discuss treatment options, the condition’s severity and the best way to care for it, you can pair these alternative medicines in addition to the prescription treatment. Here are 4 amazing natural remedies for acid reflux that usually work much better for children than traditional medications.

Peppermint Oil

Peppermint oil (organic) is not only delicious, aromatic and calming, but it soothes the digestive tract and reduces the symptoms caused by acid reflux. It lessens inflammation, boosts digestion and makes their breath nice and minty. Most stores sell them, simply dilute 2-3 drops in water or coconut oil. Certain natural health stores sell peppermint oil capsules, which can be an excellent option as well.

Diet Change

There are certain foods that can trigger acid reflux, including gluten, dairy products and wheat. Eliminate these foods from your child’s diet, and from the mother’s for infants who are breastfed. You can try altering the child’s meals from 3 larger meals to 5-6 smaller ones. Be sure your kid understands the importance of chewing properly to begin the digestion process.

Apple Cider Vinegar

Apple cider vinegar is a way to control the acid within your child’s stomach, preventing acid reflux. ACV also can lessen the symptoms, making your child feel much better in almost no time. Mix ¼-1/2 teaspoon ACV with a glass of water (6 ounces). Add a bit of honey or maple syrup to sweeten it up, plus for added nutrition.

Coconut Oil

There are few that don’t trust in the powers of coconut oil. Coconut oil gives us a ton of different health benefits, from improving our mental health and agility to softening our skin. You can use it as an anti-inflammatory to reduce reflux. Swab your baby’s mouth 3-4 times each day. You can also add a teaspoon to something warm to drink.

Sources:

http://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/infant-acid-reflux/basics/definition/con-20026253
http://www.livestrong.com/article/40734-treat-acid-reflux-children/
https://www.organicfacts.net/home-remedies/home-remedies-for-acid-reflux.html