What should the feeding strategy include for infants diagnosed with GORD?

For infants diagnosed with gastro-oesophageal reflux disease (GORD), the recommended feeding strategy of more frequent, smaller feeds is beneficial for several reasons. Smaller volumes of milk can help reduce the pressure in the stomach, which may alleviate reflux symptoms. When infants consume larger amounts of food in one sitting, the increased volume can lead to more significant intra-abdominal pressure, contributing to the likelihood of reflux episodes.

Feeding more frequently allows for better digestion and can help ensure that infants receive sufficient nutrition throughout the day without overwhelming their gastrointestinal tract. This adjusted feeding pattern tends to make it easier for infants to manage their feeds without experiencing discomfort or excessive spitting up, which is a common concern for those with GORD.

In contrast, withholding feeds for 24 hours, limiting fluids only to water, or implementing complete fasting would not be appropriate strategies for infants. These approaches could lead to nutritional deficiencies or dehydration, and they would not provide the necessary calories that infants require for growth and development. Thus, focusing on more frequent, smaller feeds is a practical approach to managing GORD in infants while ensuring their nutritional needs are met.