Recent studies have suggested that adding ceral to thicken formula does not
help reflux.  Therefore, it is not a reccommended practice in our hospital
to use cereal to "thicken" formula.  According to the Pediatric Manual of
Clinical Dietetics, "Thickened feedings may increase carbohydrate intake
and dilute the nutrient density of the diet because some formula intake is
displaced by ceral. Thickened feedings can increase the duration of reflux
and may increase the risk of esophagitis and respiratory dysfunction.
Also, breastmilk contains amylase................breaks down cereal, so it
will not thicken.  In other words, adding cereal to thicken either formula
or breastmilk is useless.  Most of our GERD babies are treated with
medication(s).  I work with breastfeeding moms to alter positioning,
offering smaller, more frequent feeds.
Hope this helps.
Becky Lyons, LD, IBCLC

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