Title: Effects of Thickened Feeding on Gastroesophageal Reflux in Infants: A Placebo-Controlled Crossover Study Using Intraluminal Impedance
| Authors: | Wenzl TG, Schneider S, Scheele F, Silny J, Heimann G, Skopnik H |
| Published: | 2003 |
| Journal: | Pediatrics |
Thickening formula feeds is part of the therapeutic approach for treating gastroesophageal reflux (GER) in infants. The aim of this randomised, placebo-controlled crossover study was to examine the influence of formula thickened with carob bean gum on acid and nonacid GER.
Thickened feeding a significantly reduces the regurgitation frequency and amount in otherwise healthy infants. This effect is caused by a reduction in the number of nonacid (pH >4) GER episodes, but also because of a decrease of mean reflux height reached in the esophagus. However, the occurrence of acid GER is not reduced. The combination of IMP (intraluminal electrical impedance) and pH monitoring allows the complete registration and description of these GER episodes. Thickening of formula feedings with carob bean gum is an efficient therapy for uncomplicated GER in infants.