Smaller volume, thickened formulas in the management of gastroesophageal reflux in thriving infants

Background: The effect of smaller volume, thickened formulas on gastroesoph ageal reflux is not clear. Methods: The frequency of gastroesophageal reflux and duration of acid pH i n the esophagus were determined in six thriving infants using extended esop hageal pH monitoring. Results: There was a significant reduction in frequency of emesis and gastr oesophageal reflux but not the duration of acid pH in the esophagus with th e use of infant formula thickened with rice cereal to provide a nutritional ly appropriate intake in a smaller volume. Conclusions: Thickening of formula with rice cereal in a nutritionally bala nced form and smaller volume may be an appropriate strategy for reducing fr equency of emesis and gastroesophageal reflux in thriving infants.