Videos you might be interested in
Videos you might be interested in
Videos you might be interested in
Suggested for you
Formula Milk for Babies: How Much Does Your Baby Need?
Choosing whether to breastfeed or formula-feed is a major decision for any new parent. Unlike breastfeeding, when you opt for a formula it can be confusing to try to work out just how much to give the baby every day. The answer lies in the baby’s age, weight and whether you’re feeding only formula or giving it as a supplement alongside breast milk or solids. Here are a few things to know before making up your mind on how much formula to give a baby.
Feeding Cues of Babies
Babies need to feed often, possibly every 2-3 hours. Every baby is different and so it’s important to learn to spot when the baby is hungry before it gets too upset and cries. The cues start with opening and closing the mouth, licking lips, sucking on hands and fingers or clothing. For up to 4 months of age it is common for them to root. That’s when they turn their head and opens their mouth towards your chest. Babies also make sucking motions and bring their hands to their mouth; this is a good time to feed them. Older babies also move their head frantically from side to side while crying when hungry.
However, it can be hard to spot feeding cues sometimes. They may naturally root when you offer them the bottle even though they are not hungry but instead just want to be held by you.
How Much Formula Milk Does Your Child Need?
It can be tricky to work out how much formula milk your baby needs as each baby has different appetite and its nutritional needs change every month. Generally babies eat when they are hungry and stop when they feel full. Formula-fed babies tend to eat more and be heavier than breastfed ones. The general rule of thumb on formula milk measurements for babies is that it is measured as per their body weight. Babies require between 150 ml and 200 ml of formula per kg of body weight each day. That is, if a baby weighs 3 kg, it will need between 450 ml and 600ml of formula per day. However they may not want to drink that much in their first week or not take the same amount at each feeding, so keep in mind not to force them to feed.
If you are wondering how much formula milk a newborn should drink, try giving them about 60-70ml of formula at each feed as they won’t be able to take more than this in one go.
Amount of Formula As Per Baby’s Requirement
A baby’s formula milk consumption not only depends on the weight but also the age. As they grow older their nutritional and calorie needs go higher and they eat more. During the first few weeks they might drink an average of around 70 ml of formula in one feed. Between the first 2 weeks and 2 months they would consume around 75-105 ml in each feed that would add up to a total ranging between 450 ml and 735 ml in 1 day. When they are about 2-6 months old, they would consume between 105 ml and 210 ml of infant milk formula in a feed.
The formula milk for a 6-month baby totals around 900 ml a day and they would want between 210 ml and 240 ml at each feed. Also, by this time, most babies would be introduced to solid foods and their intake of formula would gradually drop down to around 600 ml a day.
How Often Should You Feed Your Baby?
It is recommended that babies need be fed on demand, which is whenever they show signs of hunger. Formula-fed newborns feed every 2-3 hours. As they get older the capacities of their stomach increase, they eat more in one feed, and need to be fed every 3-4 hours. As mentioned earlier, you need to look for feeding cues by the baby and feed accordingly. You need not wait until the baby gets cranky and starts crying till you feed them. Crying is often a late sign of hunger. It is also equally important to look for signs that the baby has had enough such as slowing down and pausing.
Also if the baby is young or having problems with gaining weight, they should be fed often, even if it means waking them up from sleep. In such case it advisable to consult a doctor on how much and how often they should be fed.
How Do You Know if Your Baby is Having Enough Formula?
The baby’s physical appearance and behaviour can give you an insight into whether or not they’re getting enough formula.
The following signs indicate that they are getting inadequate formula (underfed):
The rate of weight gain in the baby is slower than normal. This is a sure sign that they are being underfed and a paediatrician must be consulted immediately.
They seem unsatisfied even after a complete feeding.
The urine output is diminished.
Orange crystals appear in the wet diaper, which is a sign of dehydration and insufficient fluid intake.
The baby’s skin has a wrinkled and loose appearance.
The baby cries more than usual.
The following signs indicate that the baby is receiving too much formula (overfed):
The baby spits or vomits immediately after feeding.
The baby experiences gas and colicky abdominal pain after feeding and cries drawing its leg up to its tummy.
The baby is gaining weight rapidly and weighs more than it should for its age.
The signs of a baby receiving just the right amount of formula:
They show a steady weight gain after 2 weeks and maintain it until the first year.
They seem happy, satisfied and relaxed after feeding.
They pass pale urine and need about 5-6 wet diapers a day.
However, there are conditions that deviate from the above-mentioned norms. Babies can go through growth spurts from 2-6 weeks, at 4 months and 6 months. A growth spurt is a period of rapid growth and can happen at any time. During one such spurt, they tend to eat more and are hungrier than usual.
Also, formula-fed babies tend to drink more. Breastfeeding gives the baby a moderate control over the milk intake unlike in a bottle where the milk flows readily. Since there’s more milk in the bottle and the babies have a natural suckling reflex, they tend to consume more and are at a risk of overfeeding. Formula milk and breast milk are metabolised differently and the formula falls short in nutritional content compared to breast milk, hence they may require more.
What's the Ideal Time to Replace Formula?
The ideal time to start replacing formula is about 6 months when you begin to introduce them to solid foods. But since there aren’t a whole lot of solid foods that they would like eating, they won’t get all the nutrition needed, so it’s important to keep them on the formula until they are about a year old. You’ll begin to notice a drop in their formula intake from 900 ml a day to about 600 ml as you begin to feed them more solids. After a year, babies only need about 350 ml milk a day which can either be formula, breastmilk or high fat cow milk. If they have been raised mostly on formula, and are fully established on solids, start decreasing the formula incrementally.
Formula feeding for babies is a healthy alternative to breastfeeding. It provides almost all beneficial nutrients for the baby to grow. Hence, it’s important to know how much formula milk is adequate for your baby, so that the baby doesn't miss out on important nutrition. Read more
Check out this new Memory
Neha Charak
Mom of a 2 m old girl
1 min ago
#babyphotochallenge
1 Likes
0 Comment
Suggested for you
12 Easy and Healthy Indian Snacks for Kids
Children can be a fussy lot, especially when it concerns food. Nutrition is the last thing on their mind, as all they want is a tasty snack after a long and tiring day at school. As a parent, it is up to you to ensure that no junk food makes it to your child’s plate. You may struggle between health and taste when it comes to snacks for children, and often, taste wins the battle. If you want your child to love the snacks you make, it is necessary to whip up some fun and tasty recipes. You could use these healthy snacks as an opportunity to sneak in some veggies and pulses your child would normally hate to eat, into his system.
Important Nutrients for Kids
Nutrients are essential for the growth and development of children. These are some nutrients that your children should get on a daily basis.
1. Protein
Protein is necessary for the development of muscles and tissues in the body and it also boosts immunity. Some great sources of protein are eggs, meat, and milk.
2. Fibre
Fibre is essential for digestion and a healthy gut. Fibre-rich foods include oats, flour, and fruits such as apples and guavas.
3. Calcium
Calcium builds strong bones and teeth in the body, and also ensures good bone health. Milk is the best source of calcium.
4. Vitamin D
Vitamin D is necessary for the absorption of calcium in the body. Vitamin D is fortified in products such as milk, but the best source remains sunlight.
5. Carbohydrates
Carbohydrates give children energy to take on the day and stay active. Flour and oats are good sources of carbohydrates.
6. Fats
Healthy fats are required for brain development and to boost metabolism. Flax seeds and vegetable oils are sources of healthy fats.
Quick and Nutritious Snacks for Children
Check out these healthy Indian snacks for kids, so you do not have to scour the internet for the right snack for your child:
1. Ragi Cookies
These cookies are packed with Calcium that is needed for strong bones and teeth in growing children. The goodness of ragi and cane sugar make it the perfect mid-meal snack. It is low in fat, and 100 grams of ragi contains about 330 Kcal of energy, making it a great energy booster.
Recipe:
Mix 1 cup of ragi flour and a ½ tablespoon of cardamom powder in a pan and roast the mixture for a minute or two. Add a whisked egg, a ½ tablespoon of salt, and 2 pinches of dry ginger to the ragi and cardamom mix. Add ½ a cup of rice bran oil and mix it well till it turns into a dark dough. Make round balls from the dough, flatten them, and place them on a flat dish covered with butter paper. Pre-heat your oven and bake the cookies for 8 minutes at 180 degrees C.
2. Whole Grain Crackers
This snack contains whole grain wheat flour, which is packed with carbohydrates and fibre. This aids digestion and supplies enough energy to children to power them through the day. Flax seeds (one tablespoon) are enriched with calcium, polyunsaturated fatty acids, phytochemicals and dietary fibre, which acts like a superfood for the body.
Recipe:
Take ½ a cup of whole wheat flour, mix 1½ tablespoons of oil, and knead it. Alongside, mix ½ a cup of ground oats, 2 tablespoons of flax seeds, 4 tablespoons of white sesame seeds, and 1 tablespoon of red chilli flakes, and grind them into a dry mix. Add this to the dough and then roll it. Using a cookie cutter, make round shapes and lay them out on a flat dish. Pre-heat the oven and bake this dough for 20 minutes at 180 degrees C. It is best to store these crackers in an air-tight container and serve them when needed.
3. Almond Granola Bar
This delicious and healthy snack contains white oats, which provide 51 gms carbohydrates, 13 gms protein and 8 gms fibre to make it a nutritious combination. Wheat contains important B vitamins like thiamine, folate and Vitamin B6 and minerals like manganese, zinc and magnesium.
Recipe:
Take a deep vessel and boil water in it. Add 225 grams of jaggery and 150 ml of honey to it. In a pan, roast 225 grams of white oats, 90 grams of dry coconut, 200 grams of almonds, 25 grams sesame seeds, and 25 grams of multigrain seeds. To the jaggery and honey mix, add 200 grams melted butter, 5 grams baking powder, 100 grams apricot, and 100 grams raisin, along with the roasted mix. Layout a silver foil in a shallow tray and spread the mix. Bake it for 30 minutes at 180 degrees Celsius, and cut into pieces when it cools down.
4. Steam Dhokla
This traditional snack is packed with carbohydrates, fats and proteins, along with the goodness of magnesium, potassium and phosphorus. Besan flour is higher in protein content. 100 gms of besan contains 22 grams of proteins, 387 calories and 7 grams of total fat.
Recipe:
In a bowl, mix 1 cup of besan (gram flour), salt to taste, 1 tablespoon of sugar, turmeric powder, and 1 tablespoon of citric acid. Add water accordingly to create a medium thick batter. Dissolve 1 tablespoon of fruit salt or baking powder in a glass and add it to the dhokla mix. Pour the mix into a steaming tin, after you have greased it with some butter, and steam it for 20 minutes. For the tadka, add 1 tablespoon of oil, mustard seeds, 8 curry leaves, and 1 dried red chilly in a pan. Pour this mix over the dhokla and cut it into pieces.
5. Steamed Chinese Cabbage Parcels
Chicken can squash hunger and boost metabolism quickly, since it is full of proteins, sodium and fat, while cabbage is a great source of Vitamin B6, C and K.
Recipe:
Take ¼ kg of chicken mince and marinate it well for a minimum of 4-5 hours using the following ingredients: 1 egg white, 2 tablespoons of chopped spring onions, 2 tablespoons of chopped carrots, 2 tablespoons of chopped mushrooms, 2 tablespoons of chilli garlic paste, 2 tablespoons of soya sauce, 1 tablespoon of sesame oil, and 1 tablespoon of chopped ginger. Add castor sugar, ginger juice, and black pepper to it, along with salt to taste. Place the cabbage leaves on the plate and put a tablespoon of minced chicken at its centre, and then tie it with the stem of spring onion. Use a steamer to steam it for 20 minutes and serve with the sauces your children love.
6. Oats Idli
These healthy idlis are low in carbohydrates and calories due to the oats and carrots in them. These are ideal for health-conscious parents who want to keep obesity away from their kids.
Recipe:
Dry roast 2 cups of oats on a tawa till they turn brownish, and grate them into a powder. Take ½ a tablespoon of oil in a pan, add 1 tablespoon of mustard seeds,1 tablespoon of udad dal powder and ½ a tablespoon of chana dal powder, and allow it to cook. Add 1 tablespoon each of carrots, coriander and chilli to the mix, along with turmeric powder, and fry for a minute or two. Add this mixture, along with 2 cups of curd to the oats powder to make a batter. Steam for 15 minutes and then serve it with a chutney of your choice.
7. Oats Apple Crumble
One serving of oats contains 62 gms carbohydrates, 13 gms proteins and 10 gms fibre thus making it a well-balanced nutritional composition. Apples are high in fibre and contain polyphenols which act as antioxidants.
Recipe:
You will need 4 large apples, thinly sliced. Put them in a bowl and add the juice of 2 lemons, along with 1 teaspoon of cinnamon powder, grated lemon zest, and a pinch of nutmeg. Mix it well and leave for 30 minutes. In the meantime, make the oats mix with 1 cup of oats, 2 tablespoons of brown sugar, and ½ teaspoon of cinnamon powder. In a baking pan, spread a little oats mix at the base, add the apples, and pour the rest of the oats mix over it. Add 2 tablespoons of butter, and bake it for 40 minutes at 190 degrees Celsius, till the crumble turns brown.
8. Savoury Corn Tarts
Instead of using maida, this recipe uses gluten-free maize flour. Corn contains fibre, which aids in proper digestion of food in children. 100 gms makki atta (maize flour) carries about 334 calories, 9 grams of protein, and 65 grams of carbohydrates, making it a perfect meal for growing children.
Recipe:
Take a bowl and pour into it 1 cup of makki atta/ cornmeal, ½ a teaspoon of thyme, ½ teaspoon of salt, and 1 tablespoon of sugar into it. Add 1 cup shredded cheese, and mix it well with the flour. Break an egg and 1 tablespoon of oil to create a dough. Put this dough into moulds and freeze it for 10 minutes. Then bake it in the oven till it turns golden brown. For the filling, add ½ a cup of mushrooms, ½ a cup of spinach leaves, and ½ a cup of boiled corn to hot oil. Add salt, pepper, and thyme. Shut the gas stove and add cheese, cream, and 1 egg. Pour this mixture into the tarts you made, add some grated cheese, and bake it for 20 minutes.
9. Dates and Cashew Laddoos
This is an energy-boosting snack. Dates contain Vitamin B6, copper and magnesium, which is great for healing functions, while cashew contains vitamins, minerals and antioxidants. These are one of the best evening snacks for toddlers.
Recipe:
Soak one cup of de-seeded dates in water, for an hour, and then drain the water to dry them off. Blend 1 cup of cashew nuts and ½ a cup of grated coconut in the mixer before adding the dates, salt, and coconut oil and blending it once again. Once a sticky mixture is formed, roll into small balls, and place them on a baking tray. Refrigerate the mix for an hour before serving it to kids.
10. Herbed Potatoes
This quick snack contains potatoes, which are low in calories and are a great source of Vitamin C and B6, manganese, and phosphorus. The goodness of honey, garlic, and other herbs are a bonus. Honey consists of Vitamin B6, thiamine, pantothenic, and riboflavin.
Recipe:
Take 2 large potatoes, wash them, and slice them into thin pieces. Put them in a bowl and add the following ingredients to it: 1 tablespoon of olive oil, four minced garlic cloves, 5-6 minced basil leaves, 1/2 a tablespoon of chilli flakes, 1 tablespoon of oregano, 2 tablespoons of honey and salt. Mix the potatoes around, till the potatoes are coated, and then put them on the baking tray. Bake them at 200 degrees C for about 10-15 minutes and serve hot. Due to the simplicity and gorgeous taste, they rank amongst the most delicious homemade snacks.
11. Surti Jowar Wada
Jowar is a part of the millet family and is the major ingredient of this gluten-free snack for kids. It is great for enhancing the protein and fibre content in the body the tasty way. One cup of jowar contains about 10 grams of dietary fibre, which is about 48% of our body’s daily need for fibre.
Recipe:
You need the following ingredients to make this snack: 1 cup of jowar, ½ a cup of besan (gram flour), chopped ginger, 4 cloves of chopped garlic, 1 cup of curd, 1 tablespoon of salt, 1 tablespoon of turmeric, 1 tablespoon of red chilli and 1 tablespoon of sesame seeds. Mix these items in a bowl and add water to create a sticky batter. Coat the pan with oil and heat it. Drop the batter into the pan and cook both sides till they are brown. Serve with sauce or chutney and watch your kids reach out for more.
12. Mixed Vegetable Sandwich
This is an all-time favourite snack for kids and mothers alike, due to the simple ingredients and great taste. Green vegetables like carrot, cucumber, cabbage and lettuce, are full of beta-carotene, calcium, magnesium, Vitamins C, A & K.
Recipe:
This recipe takes around 15-20 minutes of time to prepare and is simple and quick, too. Take 2 bread slices (whole wheat or brown bread, if you want to make it healthier) and spread butter or mayonnaise on one slice and sauce on the other. Slice 1 carrot, 1 cucumber, 1 tomato, some cabbage, and some lettuce, and spread them evenly on the bread slices. Lay a cheese slice or shredded cheese on the veggies and place the other bread slice over it. Heat the sandwich toaster, place the sandwich over it, and toast till the bread turns golden brown in colour. Cut the sandwich in two, and serve with tomato sauce and sweet-sour chutney.
Snacking is an essential part of growing up, and a lot of our memories are centred around it as kids. Children are bundles of energy and need healthy snacks to get over the hunger pangs. Parents should remember that snacks should never replace regular meals, and therefore, it is important to regulate and monitor the kind of snacks your child eats during the day.
Also Read: Calcium Rich Foods for Kids Read more
Suggested for you
Knee Pain During Pregnancy
During pregnancy there are a lot of changes that take place in your body. Due to these physical changes, it is normal to experience knee pain and sore joints during pregnancy. This is pain is because of the extra weight your body is carrying which puts pressure on your joints.
Knee Pain during Early Pregnancy
You will continue gaining weight throughout the nine months of your pregnancy. This will exert pressure on your uterus, joints, and ligaments leading to the start of knee pain during early pregnancy and the first trimester. Hormonal changes also play a key role in causing sore knees during early pregnancy.
Types of Knee Pain during Pregnancy
Here are some different types of knee pain during pregnancy –
You may experience dull and continuous pain in your knees which may be occurring due to an injury to your ligaments and soft tissues. The pain can get sharper if your knee is stabbed by something sharp
You may experience a pain in your knees which may be occurring if you stand or walk for too long resulting in achy joints
Causes of Knee Pain during Pregnancy
Several reasons can cause knee pain during pregnancy. A few of them are listed below:
Hormonal changes - During the third trimester, hormones are released to loosen up the pelvic ligaments and tendons in preparation for childbirth. They not only loosen up ligaments in the pelvic area but also cause looseness in other ligaments and tendons, including around the knees. The kneecap may not exactly track right, resulting in knee cramps while pregnant.
The strain on veins – Pregnancy may increase strain or pressure on your veins in your knees and legs, causing knee pain
Weight gain – The most common cause of knee pain during pregnancy is the gradual increase in your weight. It will put a strain on your knees, especially in case it is your first baby as your body will not be used to supporting the extra weight.
Excess work out – If you exercise too much during your pregnancy, knee pain can develop. Exercises like squats are beneficial during pregnancy but also weaken the knees. Make sure to perform knee strengthening exercises as well after squatting.
Injury – In some case, your knee pain can actually be the result of an injury like a strain or fall, and not because of your changing body. If you experience extreme knee pain, then consult a doctor immediately as it might be a serious injury.
Excess walking or standing – Sometimes knee pain can be just due to excess walking or standing throughout the day. Your knees will be forced to carry the weight for longer periods of time that way and you will develop pain.
Calcium deficiency – Calcium deficiency in your bones can also be the cause of knee pain in pregnancy
Changed point of gravity – If you move or exercise too much during pregnancy, your body switches its centre of gravity and put unbalanced pressure on your knees, causing pain.
Complications Associated with Pregnancy Knee Pain
If not checked, knee pain during pregnancy can cause future complications:
If you suffer from knee pain during pregnancy, you stand a risk of developing osteoarthritis later which is a degenerative joint disease which occurs due to wear and tear of cartilage around the knee. This disease will cause joint stiffness, locking of knee joints and severe pain.
Too much extra weight will put pressure on the knees and cause damage to the protective cartilage and ligament around the joints. This can cause difficulties with walking, bending and running in the long run if left unchecked.
How Knee Pain is Treated during Pregnancy
Knee pain is usually due to one of two reasons – either due to an injury or due to effects of your pregnancy. The former needs medical intervention but the latter can be treated in the following natural ways –
Knee strengthening exercises can help in treating the knee pain
Eat calcium-rich foods to sustain and balance the amount of calcium in your body
Check not to put on excess weight
Try placing a heating pad or ice pack on your knees for some relief
Keep your feet up most of the time and take plenty of rest
Consume more omega-3 rich foods and herbal supplements in with your daily meals. For this, remember to consult a doctor first.
Home Remedies for Knee Pain in Pregnant Women
The good thing is that these pains will subside after you have delivered your baby. But till then, here are a few home remedies to alleviate your discomfort –
Try low impact exercises to strengthen the muscles in your knees. Of course, you will have to consult your doctor before you try any of the exercises at this time.
Wear well-cushioned shoes. Padded shoes absorb shock and protect your knees as well.
Sit with your feet propped up, this will give immediate pain relief as the weight is off your legs
Look for a knee brace. These things support your ligaments and tendons, especially if you have swollen knees during pregnancy
Make sure you are not overeating and gaining weight unnecessarily. It is normal to put on 35 pounds in pregnancy.
Stick to a good diet and do not over-indulge during your cravings. Stick to a healthy diet to control your weight. This is the best way to prevent knee pain during pregnancy
Ask your doctor if you can take small doses of acetaminophen during pregnancy
Massage therapy can help joint pain and stiffness
Splints may be used, particularly in the hands and feet to provide relief
How can you Prevent Knee Pain during Pregnancy?
You can do very little to prevent natural knee pain during pregnancy, until and unless the pain is due to an injury. Here are some things you can do to try and prevent it –
You can try hot or cold packs to ease the pain from sore joints.
Always consult with a doctor before taking over-the-counter medication. Doctors usually allow acetaminophen for analgesia during pregnancy.
Some herbal supplements can be used to prevent joint pain after a doctor consultation
Include foods rich in Omega-3 in your diet to prevent joint pain
Take adequate rest to give your knees and joints a break
When to Consult a Doctor?
Being overweight during pregnancy will mostly lead to knee pain. The pain also may be caused by some other reason and you need to know when to go to a doctor:
If your knee pain is not due to any injuries, the best option to find out the actual reason is to take a medical opinion from your doctor.
If you have been around anyone who has been infected by the erythrovirus (also called the fifth disease), you must go immediately to a doctor as a risk of birth defect is associated with it. This is a rare phenomenon so there is no need to panic.
Knee pain is just one of the many changes that your body will experience during and after pregnancy. But with the simple methods listed above, you will be able to make it through your pregnancy with minimal knee pain.
Also Read:
Back Pain during Pregnancy
Boils and Bumps in Pregnancy
Chest Pain during Pregnancy Read more
Suggested for you
Gastritis in Kids - Causes, Signs, and Treatment
Gastritis is a stomach condition that is most frequently seen in older people. The condition causes the stomach lining to inflate, leading to pain, nausea, bloating, and discomfort. Gastritis is usually the result of excessive alcohol consumption, prolonged usage of anti-inflammatory drugs such as aspirin or ibuprofen, injury, major surgery, and infections. Sometimes gastritis is also seen in children because of several reasons. If your child is diagnosed with gastritis, continue reading for all you need to know about the condition, its causes, and treatment.
What Is Gastritis?
The stomach has a protective lining of mucus called mucosa that shields the stomach lining from the harsh digestive acids secreted in the stomach. When this mucus layer gets damaged through a physical injury or bacterial infection, the lining can get inflamed, leading to the condition. Gastritis can start suddenly as acute gastritis or develop gradually over time as chronic gastritis.
Acute gastritis starts as a sudden inflammation of the stomach lining. It causes sharp and severe pain along with discomfort. However, the pain is short-lived and often comes as a short bust. Acute gastritis is caused by eating spicy foods, swallowing substances that irritate the stomach lining or objects such as batteries in children.
Chronic gastritis, on the other hand, starts slowly and builds over time. It can be caused by using certain medications, such as aspirin or ibuprofen, for a long time or the consumption of spicy foods for a long time. Chronic gastritis is more harmful as it slowly wears away the stomach lining and may lead to cancer if left untreated.
What Are the Causes of Gastritis in Kids?
The different causes for gastritis in kids are as follows:
1. Bacterial Infection
One of the most common causes of gastritis in children is infection by Helicobacter pylori. While most people’s bodies are adapted to fight the bacteria, it is thought that some people are more vulnerable to the bacteria.
2. Medications
Regular use of pain medications such as aspirin and ibuprofen can lead to acute gastritis. These medicines interfere with a key process that helps in the preservation of the stomach lining.
3. Stress
Severe stress caused by the onset of a disease or injury or any other reason can lead to acute gastritis in children.
4. Autoimmune Condition
Sometimes, the body’s immune cells attack the stomach lining in a condition called autoimmune gastritis. The effect is that the stomach’s protective barrier is worn off, leading to inflammation. The condition is also linked to the deficiency of vitamin B12. Autoimmune gastritis is commonly seen in people with other autoimmune disorders such as Type 1 diabetes and Hashimoto’s disease.
5. Other Conditions
Gastritis can also be triggered by other medical conditions, including parasitic infection, Crohn’s disease, and HIV/AIDS.
Signs and Symptoms of Gastritis in Kids
Here are the gastritis symptoms in kids:
Stomach upset and pain
Belching and more hiccups than usual
Abdominal bleeding
A feeling of nausea accompanied by vomiting
Feeling full makes them refuse food
Burning sensation in the stomach
Loss of appetite in general
Abdominal bleeding leading to blood in vomit or stool
Complications of Gastritis in Kids
Chronic gastritis can be harmful for children in the long run as it increases the risk of other health conditions such as:
Peptic ulcer disease, causing painful sores in the upper digestive tract, making it hard to eat anything spicy
A small mass of cells in the stomach lining called gastric polyps
Stomach tumors that can be benign or cancerous
If the cause of the H. pylori bacteria or an autoimmune condition, it can cause atrophic gastritis. This condition destroys the inner lining of the stomach that secretes the digestive juices. In the long run, it elevates the risk of getting cancer and also lowers the stomach’s capacity to absorb certain vitamins.
How Is Gastritis Diagnosed?
If the child presents with symptoms of gastritis, the doctor will perform tests for diagnosis such as:
1. Upper Gastrointestinal Series or Barium Swallow
This procedure uses X-rays to image and observe the top portion of the digestive system. It can be used to check the esophagus, stomach, and duodenum, which is the beginning of the small intestine. The person is made to swallow a metallic fluid that consists of barium. The barium forms a coating on the internal surfaces of the organs, making them highly visible on the X-ray.
2. Blood Tests
Blood tests can be used to determine various factors that can cause the disease. Doctors will look for the H. pylori bacteria that are present in the stomach. They also test for anemia and lack of certain vitamins that are a result of gastritis.
3. Stool Sample Test
Stool samples might be taken in the diagnostic process to look for stomach bacteria that can cause the disease. A small sample of the stool will be sent to the lab to look for bacteria and traces of blood that can indicate stomach lining bleeding.
4. Breath Test
If infection by H. pylori bacteria is suspected, a capsule with liquid containing urea will have to be swallowed. Since the bacteria act on urea to produce carbon dioxide, the breath after exhaling into a balloon will show elevated carbon dioxide levels.
5. Upper Endoscopy
Upper endoscopy is used to examine the inside of the stomach and intestines. The procedure involves sending a thin tube inside the stomach through the mouth to watch the insides in real-time. If required, they can also take a small sample of the tissue. The endoscopy gives clear images of any inflammation, bleeding, or accumulated mass of cells inside the stomach.
Treatment for Gastritis in Kids
Gastritis treatment depends on several factors such as the symptoms, severity, age, and other condition that might be present. In general, these treatment approaches can be expected:
To reduce the stomach acid’s effect on the lining and give symptomatic relief, antacids would be prescribed to the children in the beginning. As the antacids neutralize the stomach acids, the lining will have time to heal.
If any other condition causes gastritis, the condition will also be treated simultaneously.
If H. pylori bacteria cause gastritis, then antibiotics will be prescribed to kill the bacteria. A proton pump inhibitor (PPI) medication will also be given to reduce the stomach acids. Medicines for diarrhea will also be given to balance the gut and give symptomatic relief.
The treatment will also involve diet restrictions and control to ensure foods that irritate the stomach lining is not consumed.
How to Prevent Gastritis in Kids?
Gastritis can be prevented by taking simple measures such as:
1. Controlled Diet
Avoid giving them foods that are known to irritate their stomach. It could include a range of spicy or acidic foods such as salsa, chilies, and citrus fruits. Other foods include red meats, dairy products, and high protein foods such as beans which take more time to digest. Encourage lighter meals and drinking water. Feed your child at least three hours before they go to sleep.
2. Precautions With Small Toy Parts
Buttons cells are often swallowed by young children causing a sudden onset of gastritis as the batteries irritate the stomach lining. Ensure they do not have access to small parts that can be easily swallowed.
3. Stress Management
If the child is stressed by other diseases or events daily, it is essential to help them relax. Stress increases acidity, which makes gastritis worse. Teach them yoga, mindfulness, and breathing techniques that help release stress.
4. Avoid Medications
Avoid medications that are known to cause stomach troubles.
Food to Avoid During Gastritis
Here are the food categories to avoid:
Deep-fried foods
Spicy foods
Highly acidic foods
Carbonated drinks and sodas
Food that has caffeine in them
Pickled foods
Fatty foods
When to Call the Doctor?
Symptoms of acute gastritis arising from food consumption or sudden onset of stress can be managed at home with OTC medications and dietary changes. However, if the symptoms persist over a few days or worsen, it is time to call the doctor. Bloody stools or stools that look charred or tarry needs immediate medical attention.
Gastritis in children can be caused by a sudden onset (acute gastritis) or slowly over time (chronic gastritis). The condition causes pain and discomfort in children, but the general prognosis is good with immediate treatment.
Also Read:
Indigestion in Kids
Mesenteric Adenitis In Children
Acid Reflux (GERD) in Kids Read more
Suggested for you
Toddlers and The Conversations in your Household
Just because toddlers speak less does not mean that they can't follow conversations. The truth is that most parents are not aware of what toddlers understand when adults talk. If they knew, they'd be a lot more cautious about what they say and how they say it!
Your toddler hovers around you throughout the day. It’s only natural that you talk about him to others when he’s close by. But though you may think he doesn’t follow your conversation, the truth is that your tot can actually understand quite a lot! It’s very important that you think before you speak when you’re around your child.
What You Need to Know About Toddler Psychology
From as early as 4months of age, a child can make out when he’s being spoken about as he can recognise his name in the conversations. By the time he turns 1, he can understand the inflections in the voice of his parents and associate them with feelings of anger, happiness or sorrow. According to these emotions, he’s able to judge if a parent is praising or admonishing him.
However, since a toddler's receptive language is limited, he doesn’t understand the meaning of many words. He ends up keeping them at the back of his mind. When he finds out the meaning of a word, he starts associating himself with that word. So, if you call your toddler a "bully" time and again, he could grow up to be one. Knowingly or unknowingly, your conversations can have a lasting impression on his psyche.
Tips for Parents for Talking around Toddlers
1. Involve Him in Conversations
You and your partner might think it unnecessary to involve your toddler in your conversation. This is fine as long as you’re talking about something mundane. However, speaking about your child as if he isn’t there in the room is not wise. Since even a 22-month-old toddler understands conversations, include yours in your daily chatter. Encourage him to tell his father what he did during the day. You can also let him know if you’re upset with something naughty he did.
2. Avoid Negative Feedback
It’s quite natural to scold your child about his unpleasant or negative traits. And, though it’s important to work on them and help him overcome them, you should know what to avoid saying when talking around kids. Repetition of the same conversation can get embedded in a toddler's mind and make him associate with it as he grows up. For instance, even if you feel that your child is very shy, avoid using the word in front of him to describe him. He could remember it and term himself as shy when he grows up.
3. Avoid Unpleasant Words and Phrases
Children have the habit of mimicking the words and phrases that their parents use. This mainly happens because toddlers’ expressive language is limited. If you don’t want your little one uttering certain things, don't say them in front of him. He can pick up a lot more than you think!
So, now you know – just teaching good things to toddlers is not enough. Talking good things around them is equally important. Read more
Suggested for you
Dr Ghouse has added a new answer
Guardian of 0 children
1 hour ago
Q. #asktheexpert water leak from baby eye....what is that
Dr Ghouse
Paediatrician
1 hour ago
A. blocked naso lacrimal duct kk. if there is no relief it is better you see your doctor for proper examination particularly physical examination if there is need for doing investigations to find out the problem and treatment ok
Dr Ghouse has added a new answer
Guardian of 0 children
1 hour ago
Q. loop of cord is seen round the neck in growth scan is it a problem at the time of delivery
Dr Ghouse
Paediatrician
1 hour ago
A. single Loop okay no problem wait. if there is no relief it is better you see your doctor for proper examination particularly physical examination if there is need for doing investigations to find out the problem and treatment ok
Puja Kumari has added a new answer
Guardian of 0 children
1 hour ago
Q. #asktheexpert My baby is 4months old he is having fever after vaccination . how many days would the fever remain? can I give him medicine
Puja Kumari
Trying To Conceive
1 hour ago
A. vomiting ka kya karan ho sakta
Dr Ghouse has added a new answer
Guardian of 0 children
59 mins ago
Q. #asktheexpert
Can we have sex during pregnancy and is it safe?
Dr Ghouse
Paediatrician
58 mins ago
A. okay no problem if you don't have any risk factors ko. if there is no relief it is better you see your doctor for proper examination particularly physical examination if there is need for doing investigations to find out the problem and treatment ok
Dr Ghouse has added a new answer
Trying To Conceive
50 mins ago
Q. Dr meri baby 12 month running hai uska weight 6 kg hai uska growth nahi ho pa Raha hai to kya kare or over active hai
Dr Ghouse
Paediatrician
48 mins ago
A. ok see c. if the baby is not having proper height and weight it means that baby is having failure to thrive baby needs investigations like TSH and other related test to find out the reason
Dr Sameer awadhiya has added a new answer
Guardian of 0 children
37 mins ago
Q. mere twins baby hai boy nd girl one month 8 days when I check eye and ear which month
Dr Sameer awadhiya
Paediatrician
36 mins ago
A. For the query asked needs consultation with doctor for proper guidance so it is better that the doctor will guide you the correct way .
Online consultation can also be taken jjand the expert will give you the proper answer .
Check out this new Memory
Shikha kakran
Mom of a 2 yr 7 m old girl and 10 m old girl
New Memory
0 Likes
0 Comment
Check out this new Memory
Arpan Nandi
Father of a 2 yr 6 m old girl
New Memory
#stylishbaby
0 Likes
0 Comment
Check out this new Memory
Sangita Murarka Agarwal
Guardian of a 8 m old boy
2 mins ago
0 Likes
0 Comment
Check out this new Memory
Deepa Kodiya
Mom of a 3 m old boy
2 mins ago
#babyonboard
0 Likes
0 Comment
Tell us more about yourself get More Personalised
- Infant0 to 6 Months
- Baby6 Months to 2 Yrs
- Toddler2 to 4 yrs
- Kids4-6 yrs
- Big Kids6+ yrs
- Expecting
- Trying to Conceive