#asktheexpert My baby vomits four to five hours after I feed them homemade cerlac, and this happens about three times a month. Is this common?

Question

#asktheexpert My baby vomits four to five hours after I feed them homemade cerlac, and this happens about three times a month.  Is this common?

Accepted Answer

Vomiting several hours after feeding, like the scenario you’ve described with your baby, is not uncommon, but it’s something to watch carefully. There could be a few possible reasons for this, and it's important to assess whether it's related to the type of food, feeding habits, or other health issues:

Overfeeding: If your baby is fed too much at once or too quickly, it may cause discomfort and vomiting later. This can happen even with homemade cerelac. Ensure that you're offering an appropriate portion size for your baby’s age.

Gastric Reflux: Babies, especially those who are starting solids, can experience gastric reflux, where the stomach contents flow back into the esophagus. This can cause discomfort and vomiting, especially hours after a feed.

Food Sensitivity: Your baby may have a sensitivity to certain ingredients in the homemade cerelac. It’s a good idea to check if any specific ingredient is triggering this response. Common triggers include wheat or dairy (if used).

Digestive Immaturity: At 6 months or older, babies' digestive systems are still maturing, and they may have difficulty processing certain foods, which could lead to vomiting.

Infection or Illness: Vomiting occasionally could be a sign of an underlying infection or illness, especially if accompanied by other symptoms like fever or diarrhea.

What You Can Do: Smaller Meals: Try offering smaller amounts of food more frequently rather than large meals. Slow Feeding: Ensure that your baby is not eating too quickly. Give time to swallow and digest. Observe Food Ingredients: Check if a specific ingredient in the homemade cerelac might be causing the issue. You can also try switching to a different type of solid food. Burping: Make sure to burp your baby during and after the feed to reduce gas or discomfort. Consult the Doctor: If the vomiting continues or worsens, or if your baby shows signs of dehydration or distress, it is important to consult your pediatrician to rule out any underlying conditions like reflux or food allergies.

If the vomiting only occurs occasionally and there are no other concerning symptoms, it might not be a major issue, but regular vomiting should always be discussed with your doctor for proper evaluation and guidance.