Dietary caloric density and osmolality influence gastroesophageal reflux in infants.
In a group of 19 infants being evaluated for gastro-esophageal reflux, we investigated the effects of various carbohydrate solutions (glucose polymers, 5% dextrose in water, and 10% dextrose in water) on the rate of postcibal gastroesophageal reflux during the first 2 h after a test feeding. The high-osmolality feeding (10% dextrose in water) produced significantly more postcibal gastroesophageal reflux over the entire 2-h interval. The major difference occurred in the second postcibal hour when the amount of gastroesophageal reflux was persistently high for 10% dextrose in water in contrast to the other feedings. We speculate that more rapid gastric emptying of low-osmolality solutions may account for these differences. Clear liquid feeding composition should be standardized during pH testing. Low-osmolality glucose polymer solutions may be more easily tolerated by infants with gastro-esophageal reflux who require carbohydrate or fluid supplements.
Sutphen
J L
JL
Department of Pediatrics, Children's Medical Center, University of Virginia, Charlottesville.
Dillard
V L
VL
D004040:Dietary Carbohydrates; D002149:Energy Intake; D005746:Gastric Emptying; D005764:Gastroesophageal Reflux / Q000175:diagnosis*; D005947:Glucose; D006801:Humans; D006863:Hydrogen-Ion Concentration; D007223:Infant; D007225:Infant Food; D009994:Osmolar Concentration; D013997:Time Factors
D004040:Dietary Carbohydrates; D005947:Glucose