The Medical Advisor

Researchers have identified 14 biomarkers that, if atypical at birth, may increase an infant’s risk of sudden infant death syndrome, or SIDS—a fatal syndrome that has long puzzled doctors. The study evaluated more than 350 infants who died from SIDS and compared them to more than 1,400 babies who were not stricken by the syndrome. “We may be able to identify infants at increased risk for SIDS soon after birth,” the researchers at the University of California–San Francisco wrote in their study . The ability to make this early identification could help with prevention. They also found that infants born to Hispanic and Asian mothers were at a lowest risk. SIDS is defined as the sudden unexplained death of a newborn under 1. It usually occurs during sleep. Though the cause of SIDS is unknown, babies who die of the syndrome are thought to have problems in the way they respond to stress and how they regulate their heart rate, breathing, and temperature. Babies that are male, are born prematu...

Many foods marketed for infants and toddlers are unhealthy and may lead to increased obesity, poor dietary habits, and chronic diseases, according to a new study examining many of the most common products. Researchers analyzing 651 products from 10 U.S. grocery chains discovered that 60 percent of the processed foods fell short of nutritional requirements set by the World Health Organization (WHO). The foods sampled were intended for children 6 to 36 months old. “The lowest compliance was found for total protein and total sugar, with over 70% of products failing to meet protein requirements and 44% exceeding total sugar recommendations,” the researchers wrote in the study published last week in the journal Nutrients. “Infant formulas, fortified milk, and oral electrolytes were not included because the U.S. Food and Drug Administration regulates these products separately,” the authors added. Fail to Meet Nutritional Standards The rising popularity of processed convenience foods for you...

Acid reflux is what happens when stomach contents and acid flow back up into the throat. This is a common problem in infants, especially those below 3 months old. This problem usually happens when the lower esophageal sphincter (LES), the muscle between the stomach and the esophagus, is weak or underdeveloped. If it doesn’t close properly, stomach contents can flow back into the esophagus. When Will My Baby's Reflux Go Away? A normal baby with mild acid reflux may spit up after feedings, but usually isn’t irritable. This problem usually stops after 12 months. How To Soothe Baby Acid Reflux - Rest their stomach. Keep your baby from eating or drinking for 30 to 60 minutes after vomiting so that their stomach has time to recover. - Give them fluids. after 3o minutes, start by giving your baby small amounts (0.5 oz or less) of fluid every 5 to 10 minutes. If your baby vomits the fluid out, wait another 30 minutes. Then start again with small amounts of fluid every 5 to 10 minutes. Use ...

It's normal for babies and children to vomit occasionally. Vomiting occurs when the abdominal muscles and diaphragm contract vigorously while the stomach is relaxed. This reflex action is triggered by the "vomiting center" in the brain after it has been stimulated by: - Nerves from the stomach and intestine when the gastrointestinal tract is either irritated or swollen by an infection or blockage (as in the stomach bug). This usually lasts one to two days and isn't a sign of anything serious. - Chemicals in the blood such as drugs - Psychological stimuli from disturbing sights or smells - Motion Sickness However, if the vomiting is persistent, your child may become severely dehydrated. It can occasionally be a sign of something more serious, such as meningitis. How do I stop my baby from vomiting after feeding? - Avoid overfeeding. If the baby's stomach is too full, some of the contents might be pushed back out. To reduce overfeeding, feed your baby smaller amoun...

Acid reflux and lactose intolerance are some common problems in infants. Acid reflux is what happens when stomach contents and acid flow back up into the throat, where as lactose intolerance happens when infant is unable to digest the lactose found in milk and dairy products. Symptoms of lactose intolerance in infants can include bloating, gas, abdominal pain, and diarrhea. The best formula for reflux and lactose intolerance is a hypoallergenic formula. This formula contains protein that has been hydrolyzed into very small proteins, making them easier for a baby’s body to digest. There are two main types of hypoallergenic formula available, including:  Extensively Hydrolyzed Formula (EHF): EHF is made from proteins that have been extensively broken down, making them easier to digest. This formula breaks down the milk proteins into even smaller pieces than partially hydrolyzed formula. Amino Acid-Based Formula (AAF): AAF is the most hypoallergenic of the formulas available. This for...