Gastro-oesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is a common condition in infants, characterised by spontaneous regurgitation that occurs effortlessly, often after burping or feeding.
This disorder is particularly common between the ages of 2 and 6 months, due to the exclusively liquid diet, frequent changes in position and compression of the abdomen. However, it disappears naturally in 85% of cases before 12 months and 95% before 18 months, particularly with the introduction of solid foods.
GERD or vomiting: how do you tell the difference?
Unlike vomiting, GERD is not accompanied by muscular or abdominal contractions. It is generally painless and does not provoke any particular reaction in infants, except in cases of pathological reflux.
Why does my baby have reflux?
Gastro-oesophageal reflux is mainly caused by the immaturity of the lower sphincter of the oesophagus, which is not yet able to close the stomach completely. As a result, stomach contents easily back up into the oesophagus.
The main causes of GERD in infants
Several factors can contribute to the onset or worsening of reflux:
- An abnormality of the pylorus, which slows down the evacuation of gastric contents towards the intestine.
- Excessive pressure in the stomach, often caused by eating too much.
- Unsuitable posture after eating, increasing the risk of acid reflux.
Natural methods to relieve gastro-oesophageal reflux in babies
To limit reflux and soothe baby, certain hygienic and dietary measures can be put in place. These simple adjustments help to reduce symptoms without resorting to medical treatment.
The importance of positioning after meals
Baby’s posture after feeding plays an essential role in managing GERD. Here are a few recommendations:
- Do not lay baby down immediately after feeding.
- Keep baby in an upright position (not sitting up) for 20 to 30 minutes after feeding.
- Raise baby’s head slightly by placing a cushion under the mattress.
- Have baby sleep on his back, the only safe position recommended by paediatricians.
Essential steps to limit spit-up
Certain habits can also prevent or reduce gastro-oesophageal reflux:
- Burping after each meal to evacuate swallowed air.
- Eat smaller, more frequent meals to avoid overloading the stomach.
- Limit sudden movements after eating, which can encourage regurgitation.
Which milk should I choose for a baby suffering from reflux?
For bottle-fed babies suffering from reflux, it is often recommended to use an anti-regurgitation milk (AR milk). Thicker, it helps to limit acid reflux and improve the baby’s digestive comfort. To help you choose the right milk for your baby’s needs, take a look at this detailed article on the different infant formulas.
Natural remedies for gastro-oesophageal reflux disease
Natural solutions can help soothe reflux while respecting your baby’s fragile physiology.
Plants with digestive properties for babies
Certain plants are recognised for their digestive benefits and can help relieve gastro-oesophageal reflux in babies. Camomile hydrolate, for example, is particularly appreciated for its soothing action on the digestive system. It helps reduce gastric spasms and promotes better digestion, making it an invaluable ally against regurgitation. A teaspoon of chamomile hydrosol diluted in a bottle of water, given in divided doses throughout the day, can be beneficial for baby’s digestive comfort.
Fennel is another plant often used to calm digestive problems in babies. Thanks to its antispasmodic properties, it helps soothe cramps and facilitates the evacuation of intestinal gas. Deglycyrrhizinated liquorice, for its part, is known for its protective properties on the gastric mucosa and its ability to reduce irritation caused by acidity, although it must be administered in very small quantities. Finally, ginger, although rarely used in babies, has interesting anti-inflammatory properties that can help ease digestive discomfort.
According to a study published in BMC Complementary Medicine and Therapies (2025)(2), many parents use these plants to relieve their child’s gastrointestinal problems. However, before including these natural remedies in an infant’s diet, it is advisable to seek the advice of a health professional to ensure that they are used safely and appropriately.
Probiotics to improve baby’s digestion
A meta-analysis published in theIndian Journal of Otolaryngology (2024)(1) highlights the role of probiotics in reducing gastro-oesophageal reflux in infants. Certain specific strains, such as Lactobacillus reuteri DSM 17938 and Bifidobacterium breve, help to balance the intestinal flora and improve the functioning of the digestive system. By modulating gastric acidity and strengthening the intestinal barrier, these probiotics help to reduce inflammation of the oesophagus and limit episodes of reflux.
Introducing the right probiotics can therefore be a natural solution for improving digestive comfort in babies prone to spit-up. However, before considering their use, it is advisable to seek the advice of a health professional in order to choose the strain and dosage best suited to your baby’s needs.
Adapting breastfeeding technique to limit reflux
According to a study published in Nature (2025)(3), adjusting the position and rhythm of breastfeeding can play a key role in reducing gastro-oesophageal reflux in infants. Biological positioning is particularly recommended: by positioning the baby slightly reclined on the mother during breastfeeding, the lower oesophageal sphincter closes more easily, thereby limiting acid reflux.
It is also essential to adopt a slower feeding rhythm to prevent baby absorbing too much milk in a short space of time. Feeding too quickly can put excessive pressure on the stomach and encourage reflux. By encouraging gentler sucking and allowing baby to take breaks during feeds, it’s possible to better regulate his milk intake and thus limit the onset of spit-up.
Newborns and hiatus hernia: a special case
Gastro-oesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is common in infants and generally results from an immature lower oesophageal sphincter. This muscle, located at the base of the oesophagus, normally prevents stomach contents from rising.
Congenital hiatal hernia is a rarer anomaly, present from birth. It is characterised by the passage of part of the stomach through the diaphragm, which can :
- Prevent complete closure of the lower oesophageal sphincter.
- Cause more frequent and intense gastro-oesophageal reflux.
- If hiatal hernia is suspected, a medical consultation is essential to adapt the treatment.
Source of information:
- Alanazi, N., AlGhamdi, M.A., Alsowailmi, G., et al. (2024). Association of Pediatric Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease and Subglottic Stenosis: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis. Indian Journal of Otolaryngology.
- Bükülmez, A., Köroğlu, A., Baş, M.T. (2025). Parents’ preferences for herbal supplements in managing functional gastrointestinal disorders. BMC Complementary Medicine and Therapies.
- Lockyear, C., Stark, A., Foote, H.P., Agyeman, A. et al. (2025). Medical treatment of gastroesophageal reflux in the neonatal intensive care unit: current practice. Journal of Perinatology (Nature).
