This article provides valuable insights into choosing a suitable thickener for the elderly, identifying safe brands, and avoiding potential risks, empowering you to make informed decisions for yourself or a loved one.

While navigating the world of thickening agents for the elderly may seem daunting, this simple guide offers assistance.

Considerations when selecting a Dysphagia thickener for Seniors

1. Easy to mix

One crucial factor to consider when selecting a thickener is its ease of mixing. A thickener that is easy to mix can save valuable time during meal preparation, allowing caretakers and individuals with dysphagia to focus on other aspects of mealtime.

An easy-to-mix thickener can help prevent lumps or clumps in the liquid, ensuring a smooth and consistent texture that is easier to swallow. And Supercol’s unique formulation allows for just that  – quick and effortless mixing for a smooth texture every time.

2. Minimal impact on taste

When choosing a thickener for dysphagia, minimising the impact on taste is crucial. No one wants to eat something that tastes bad!

Luckily, Supercol food and drink thickener blends seamlessly with various liquids without altering their flavours. This is particularly important as individuals with dysphagia often struggle with changes in taste and texture.

3. Consistency

Select a thickening agent that delivers the intended texture. Opting for an easily mixable thickener like Supercol can prevent the formation of lumps or clumps in the liquid, resulting in a uniform consistency that is more manageable for swallowing and true to the original food or drink.

4. Ingredients

When choosing a food and drink thickener for elderly dysphagia sufferers, avoid ingredients like thickeners with high levels of sugar and artificial flavours and colours.

Instead, choose natural ingredients such as guar gum. Made from the guar bean, guar gum is a natural galactomannan that helps to hold and thicken food without creating an unpleasant texture.

The source of Supercol’s guar gum is the nourishing guar bean, which is abundant in fibre and has been associated with lower blood glucose and cholesterol levels.

5. Safety

Choose a thickener that is specifically formulated for dysphagia and has been tested for safety.

Supercol Australia works in partnership with ISO and Food Safety System Certification 22000 (FSSC 22000) accredited suppliers to ensure that only the finest quality guar gum is used in our thickener.

6. Individual preferences and dietary restrictions

It’s crucial to consider individual preferences and dietary restrictions to ensure compliance and enjoyment of meals.

Consulting with a healthcare professional is strongly advised to ensure the best choice based on the individual’s specific needs.

6 Key considerations when selecting thickener for elderly dysphagia sufferers

Selecting the right food and drink thickener for elderly dysphagia sufferers involves carefully considering various factors such as mixing methods, taste preferences, desired consistency, and dietary restrictions. It’s crucial to prioritise safety when choosing a thickening agent and ensure it meets all necessary health standards.

Additionally, being mindful of individual dietary requirements and restrictions is essential to avoid any adverse effects. By taking these considerations into account, you can make informed decisions about the best thickening options for your specific needs.

Remember to consult with a healthcare professional or nutritionist if you have any concerns or questions about choosing the right thickener for your food and drinks.

If you are looking after an older family member or a person with difficulty swallowing, Supercol may have the solution you are looking for. We invite you to our website for more information about us, to shop or to contact us directly.

Whether the difficulties stem from reflux, swallowing issues, or other health concerns, these thickeners can provide relief by addressing some of the obstacles associated with feeding.

This piece will introduce you to the 3 important factors to consider when selecting a formula thickener for your little one.

1. Ingredients to look for 

When selecting a thickening agent for infant formula, it’s essential to review the ingredients carefully.

Avoid thickeners with artificial additives or potential allergens, as these could pose health risks for your child.

Instead, opt for natural thickeners like guar gum, which are generally well-tolerated by babies and less likely to cause adverse reactions.

Derived from the guar bean, guar gum is a natural galactomannan that effectively thickens food without altering its texture. Unlike xanthan gum, it is free from common food allergens, providing peace of mind for parents concerned about their baby’s well-being.

2. Brands of formula thickener 

When considering brands of formula thickeners, it’s crucial to prioritise factors such as safety, ease of use, and overall effectiveness.

Supercol excels in all these areas with its commitment to quality, safety assurance for babies’ delicate systems, and user-friendly application:

• our product has gone through extensive research backing product safety and a proven track record of satisfied customers
• Supercol offers a unique combination of natural ingredients that effectively thicken infant formula without compromising taste or nutritional value
• Our thickener for formula is a gut-friendly, nutritionally beneficial addition to your baby’s die

3. Observing your baby’s reaction to thickened formula and when to consult a paediatrician

When it comes to finding the right feeding method for your baby, it’s important to seek advice from a paediatrician or healthcare professional. They can offer personalised guidance based on your baby’s individual needs.

After starting your baby on thickened formula, it’s crucial to closely observe their reaction to the feeding. Look out for any signs of discomfort, excessive spitting up, or changes in bowel movements.

Remember that every baby is different and may have varying levels of difficulty adjusting to the thicker consistency. If you notice any concerning symptoms, be sure to consult your paediatrician for further evaluation and advice regarding formula thickening for babies.

Thickener for formula: 3 simple steps to help you choose

Choosing the right formula thickener for your baby is a crucial decision that requires careful consideration.

By focusing on the ingredients, researching reputable brands and closely monitoring your baby’s reaction to the chosen thickener, you can make an informed choice that prioritises your baby’s health and well-being. Remember to consult with healthcare professionals if you have any concerns or questions about formula thickeners for your baby.

For more information, or if you have any questions, please contact Supercol today or order our products online.

This article aims to answer some of the most commonly asked questions about our product.

From teat size and taste preferences to frequently raised concerns about allergens, we’ve got you covered.

Supercol liquid thickener 101

What is Supercol thickener for babies?

Supercol thickener is a specially formulated product designed to thicken liquids, such as milk or formula, to aid in feeding babies with reflux and swallowing difficulties.

How can Supercol help babies with swallowing difficulties?

Supercol thickener makes it easier for babies with difficulty swallowing liquids by providing a thicker consistency that reduces the risk of choking and aspiration.

Is Supercol safe for my baby’s health?

Yes, Supercol has been specially developed considering the safety of infants and young children. It undergoes rigorous testing to ensure its suitability for use in

paediatric feeding.

What age can my baby start on Supercol?

As a precaution, we recommend Supercol is not given to infants under three months who are not full-term.

What size bottle teats are compatible with Supercol?

How does Supercol help fussy babies who don’t like their milk altered?

Supercol is flavourless and doesn’t alter the taste of the milk or formula.

This is great for bubs sensitive to changes in taste and ensure they continue receiving the necessary nutrients without any aversion or fuss.

How to use Supercol liquid thickener

How do I use Supercol correctly?

To use Supercol correctly, add the required amount of powder (as directed on the packaging) into the empty bottle or cup. Then, gradually pour in the desired liquid while stirring gently until fully dissolved. Always follow instructions carefully for best results and consult your healthcare professional if you have any concerns.

Watch this space for updated mixing guidelines, including specific baby bottle and breastfeeding paste recipes!

Can I use Supercol with breast milk?

Yes, Supercol can be used with both breast milk and formula. It helps thicken breast milk to a consistency easier for babies to manage during feeding.

Does Supercol dissolve easily in liquids?

Yes, Supercol dissolves quickly and easily in liquids without forming clumps or lumps. It blends smoothly, allowing you to prepare your baby’s drinks effortlessly.

This is excellent news for those feeding at night – no more clogged teats or lumps in the bottom of the bottle!

Do you need much Supercol when thickening?

Only a small amount is required, making it extremely cost-effective.

Thickener for liquids made for sensitive tummies

Is Supercol dairy free?

Supercol is dairy-free and suitable for individuals with lactose intolerance or milk allergies.

Is Supercol gluten free?

Supercol is gluten-free and safe for consumption by people with gluten sensitivity or celiac disease.

Are there any other common allergens present in Supercol?

Besides being free from dairy and gluten, Supercol also does not contain other common allergens like soy, nuts, or eggs.

Thickener for liquids: FAQs about Supercol for babies

Supercol is one of the best thickeners for liquids on the market. It works a treat, easy to use and formulated for sensitive tummies in mind.

Have more questions? Feel free to visit our website or reach out to us directly.

Supercol is a popular choice for those seeking an all-natural solution to thicken food and drinks, particularly for individuals with swallowing difficulties.

Supercol is used in settings such as aged and residential care facilities, hospitals, private health clinics, and pharmacies, but it’s also available for personal use at home. Find out why Supercol food and drink thickener is used in medical settings nationwide, and how it can help you on your search for the best thickener of the market.

How does Supercol help dysphagia sufferers?

Supercol thickens liquids and foods, making them less likely to cause choking or aspiration. This allows dysphagia sufferers to enjoy a wider variety of foods and beverages safely.

How can Supercol benefit aged care homes?

Supercol is commonly used in aged care homes to assist elderly residents with dysphagia. Why Supercol?  Our thickener offers numerous benefits for aged care homes. It simplifies the preparation process by quickly thickening fluids without altering taste or texture significantly. This improves meal service efficiency while ensuring proper hydration for residents with dysphagia.

Is Supercol easy to use?

Yes, Supercol is simple to use. It can easily be mixed into liquids or added directly to foods without significantly altering their taste or appearance.

Can I use Supercol at home for my loved one with dysphagia?

Absolutely! Supercol is available online or through medical supply stores, making it accessible for home use. Always consult a healthcare professional before changing your loved one’s diet.

Is Supercol suitable for all types of dysphagia?

Supercol can be used for most forms of dysphagia; however, it’s essential to consult with a healthcare professional who can provide personalised recommendations based on the specific needs and conditions of the individual.

What benefits does Supercol offer for elderly individuals?

For elderly individuals, Supercol provides a safe and effective solution to manage swallowing difficulties. Thickening liquids help promote safer swallowing, reducing the risk of aspiration pneumonia and enhancing overall nutrition and hydration.

Can Supercol be stored?

Yes! Supercol is perfectly fine to be blended and kept in your refrigerator for a maximum of 72 hours.

Does Supercol alter the taste or texture of food and drinks?

No, Supercol is formulated to maintain food and drinks’ original taste and texture when used as directed. This ensures that individuals with dysphagia can still enjoy their meals without compromising flavour.

Can Supercol be used in hot beverages or soups?

Yes, Supercol works well with hot and cold liquids, including beverages like coffee, tea, hot chocolate, and soups and broths. Its versatility makes it ideal for managing dysphagia across various meal types.

Is Supercol suitable for all levels of dysphagia?

Supercol is suitable for most individuals with mild to moderate levels of dysphagia. However, consulting with a healthcare professional or speech therapist is always recommended to determine the appropriate thickness level and usage guidelines for each individual.

Is Supercol expensive?

Not in the slightest. Supercol stands out for its incredibly low price point, being two to three times less expensive than most other powder thickeners on the market.

Food and drink thickener: Supercol for the Elderly FAQs

If you care for an elderly family member or a patient with dysphagia, Supercol could offer the solution you have been searching for. We trust that this article has addressed some of your inquiries about our product and encourage you to explore further details or purchase by visiting our website or contacting us directly.

Acid reflux, also known as gastroesophageal reflux (GER) is when the contents of your baby’s stomach come back up into their esophagus and throat, resulting in frequent spitting up or vomiting.

We understand how distressing this can be, but there are ways to help treat reflux. This article provides natural approaches and practical at-home tips that may relieve your little one’s reflux, using gentle and holistic methods.

But before diving into these treatments, please consult your trusted healthcare provider for guidance tailored to your child’s needs.

Treatment of reflux: natural treatments

Try these natural treatments:

Feed baby in an upright position

If possible, try feeding the baby upright and keep them in that position for approximately 30 minutes afterwards. This method can effectively help in treating reflux and prevent the uncomfortable experience of acid creeping up.

Try smaller, more frequent feeds

It is possible that your little one might experience reflux and spit up more often if their tummy is too full. One way to address this, is by increasing the frequency of feedings, while reducing the amount at each feeding.

Frequent feeding will help alleviate pressure on the lower esophageal sphincter (LES), which prevents food from flowing back into the esophagus from the stomach.

When this muscle is under strain, it becomes less effective, causing stomach contents to rise into the throat. It’s important to remember that it takes time for the LES to strengthen during your baby’s first year, so it’s normal for them to spit up frequently.

Burp baby often

Whether you feed your baby with a bottle or breast, it’s important to remember the significance of burping.

Regularly burping your little one during feeding can provide relief from reflux symptoms. For bottle-fed infants, burp them after every 30-60 millilitres or 2-3 tablespoons (or even more frequently if they consume smaller amounts).

Sleep baby on back

Sleeping your baby on their backs can provide relief for their reflux. Gravity works in their favour by keeping the stomach acids from flowing back into the esophagus.

This can help reduce the frequency and severity of GERD symptoms. Also, laying them on their back allows for proper digestion as their head is slightly elevated. By ensuring that their head is above their stomach level, you can prevent any acid regurgitation during sleep.

Thicken breast milk or formula with Supercol

In thickening breast milk or formula with Supercol, it may help manage some of the challenges mothers and babies experience with feeding.

Supercol effectively thickens liquids, slowing it’s flow and minimising the chances of pulmonary aspiration, which often affects infants with dysphagia.

By making feeds easier to swallow, Supercol greatly reduces vomiting after meals.

Countless mothers have reached out to share their experiences, expressing how this life-changing thickener has completely revolutionised their feeding routine from being anxiety-induced to something they now look forward to.

The best part is that it’s a pure, natural guar gum powder derived from real food (unlike other artificial gums). It is gentle on the stomach and provides nutritional benefits for your baby’s diet.

See more reasons why mum’s love Supercol or order online.

How to treat reflux in babies naturally

If your infant is experiencing reflux and to alleviate their discomfort using gentle and holistic approaches, there are various natural remedies and practical tips that you can implement at home.

These include adjusting baby’s feeding and sleeping positions, opting for smaller but more frequent feeds, ensuring proper burping techniques, and considering the use of Supercol food and liquid thickener.

By following these suggestions, you may be able to provide some relief for your baby’s reflux symptoms.

With its ability to transform liquids into gels, this innovative product has found its way into countless households, providing solutions to many everyday challenges.

From ensuring the smooth consistency for infants, from purees to solids and aiding individuals with swallowing difficulties, including the elderly, Supercol has proven a versatile ally in enhancing nutrition, relieving pain and discomfort and improving overall well-being.

Join us as we explore the incredible ways Supercol is transforming lives and positively impacting individuals of all ages throughout Australia.

What is water thickener?

A water thickener is a substance that can enhance the thickness of a liquid without significantly altering its other characteristics. Thickened water, specifically formulated for infants, the elderly, and individuals with swallowing

difficulties (dysphagia), incorporates a tasteless and odourless thickening agent like xanthan or guar gum. This additive imparts a dense texture to the water and can be mixed into various liquids such as milk or plain water.

3 ways water thickener can be used

Water thickeners can positively impact many individuals who require assistance with swallowing or reflux issues.

1. Helping treat babies with reflux, naturally

Supercol can provide relief to full-term babies with gastroesophageal reflux (GER). It is a vegan, dairy and gluten-free product that enhances the consistency of breast milk or formula.

It blends seamlessly, preserving the taste and smell of the original liquid. Whether pre-mixed, frozen, thawed, or warmed, Supercol ensures a smooth and homogeneous result.

For infants who are not full-term or if you have concerns about its usage, it is advisable to consult with a General Practitioner or Specialist beforehand.

Discover more reasons why mum’s love Supercol here.

2. Helping people with swallowing difficulties

Supercol is an affordable and manageable solution for dysphagia sufferers in Australia. 

It costs two to three times less than traditional powder thickeners and offers a simple and cost-effective solution for those struggling to find relief.

With Supercol, there’s no need to compromise on taste or texture – it is a versatile product that can be conveniently mixed with hot and cold liquids.

The quality and effectiveness of this product has been clinically tested and proven to provide optimal thickness levels required by individuals with dysphagia.

3. Water thickener for the elderly

Supercol food thickeners are highly effective and provide relief for elderly individuals with dysphagia or other conditions that make it difficult to consume regular food and drinks.

By using Supercol in liquid, the risk of aspiration into the lungs is reduced, allowing these individuals to enjoy their favourite foods and drinks without compromising their health.

It is especially beneficial for aged care and nursing home residents who often struggle with dysphagia due to factors like old age, strokes, cancer, dementia, and Parkinson’s disease.

The use of food and liquid thickeners not only improves their swallowing ability but also has a significant positive impact on their overall health and quality of life.

Importantly, Supercol does not alter the taste of the thickened item, so the person can continue to enjoy the taste of their food and drink.

Alternative to water thickener Chemist Warehouse

If you find yourself the caregiver for a baby with reflux or an elderly family member and you can’t easily make a trip to the chemist, don’t fret!

With Supercol’s convenient online shop with express delivery, we take away the added stress of leaving the house when you need a quick solution.

Supercol’s online platform enables you to place an order and opt for express shipping to your doorstep. This saves time and ensures that those in your care have access to what they need without any unnecessary inconvenience.

So next time you’re unable to make it to the chemist due to looking after a reflux baby or an elderly person, remember that there are alternatives available online. Say goodbye to unnecessary stress and hello to convenience with just a few clicks of a button.

Where to buy water thickener Australia

If you want to buy a water thickener in Australia, look no further than Supercol’s website. As one of the leading suppliers of 100% natural liquid thickeners, Supercol offers a wide range of sizes to suit your needs and budget. Visit us at www.supercol.com.au

Water thickener: 3 ways Supercol helps Australians young and old

Supercol water thickener has profoundly impacted the well-being of young and elderly individuals in Australia, particularly those dealing with issues such as reflux and dysphagia.

If you want to uncover the exceptional benefits that Supercol offers, we invite you to browse our website or contact us for further assistance.

Nothing is worse than seeing one of your children in pain or discomfort, especially a baby or toddler. 

If your child has reflux, chances are you’re on the lookout for a solution or product to provide relief.

This article explains what a formula thickener is and how Supercol’s all-natural thickening agent may help alleviate reflux symptoms. 

But first, what is formula thickener?

What is formula thickener?  

Formula thickener can be found in powder form that can be mixed with infant formula or breastmilk, to provide a thicker consistency.

It is commonly used for infants who have trouble swallowing or are experiencing reflux issues. This simple, yet effective solution helps to reduce the chances of regurgitation and improve overall feeding experiences.

What is reflux?  

The Mayo Clinic explains that acid reflux, also known as gastroesophageal reflux (or GER), is when stomach acid travels in reverse into the oesophagus, resulting in a burning feeling in the chest commonly referred to as heartburn.

How to treat reflux  

In cases of reflux or gastro-oesophageal reflux disease (GORD) in infants, the Royal Children’s Hospital suggests that if the symptoms are causing difficulties, treatment options may include feeding your baby thickened fluids.

Thicken formula for reflux  

What is one of the best ways to thicken formula for reflux? 

While several products are available on the market, opting for a natural solution like Supercol, could be the game-changer you’ve been looking for.

Supercol provides effective formula thickening, without any harmful additives or chemicals.  

Is thickener safe for babies?  

When it comes to choosing baby products, safety is always the top priority.

Supercol offers a safe thickener option for babies. Supercol Food & Liquid Thickener stands out with its 100% natural composition that excludes sugar and gluten.  

Moreover, it contains no additives or preservatives while providing essential daily fibre and potassium intake. Additionally, it has incredibly low levels of saturated fats, cholesterol, and sodium content.

Supercol has a 5-star health rating and has been trusted by Australian families since 1992.  

Read here for more reasons why mums love Supercol.

Liquid thickener chemist

While you can buy some thickeners at chemists, Supercol is available online, making it super convenient to purchase 24/7.  

Supercol’s online availability saves time and allows you to explore different options and variations.  

With just a few clicks, you can compare prices, read reviews from other users, and discover new ways to use liquid thickeners in your everyday life.  

We understand that taking a baby with reflux to a store or chemist is far from ideal. That is why we offer express shipping straight to your door.  

About Supercol  

Supercol is 100% natural. Our food-grade guar gum comes in powder form and is easy to mix with infant formula or breast milk. 

Vegan, Dairy and gluten-free, Supercol does not present any concerns for those who have allergens. 

From a quality assurance perspective, Supercol Australia works in partnership with accredited suppliers, to ensure that only the finest quality guar gum is used in our thickener. We also hold an ISO and Food Safety System Certification 22000 (FSSC 22000).

Formula thickener: How Supercol can help treat baby reflux

Nothing is more distressing than witnessing your child upset or suffering discomfort, particularly in infants and toddlers.

Our blog looked closer at what reflux is and how, when adding Supercol to thicken formula, this can alleviate or reduce chronic symptoms.  

Additionally, we explored the safety measures and advantages of Supercol, ranging from its all-natural composition, to the convenience of express doorstep delivery, thanks to our online ordering system.  

To discover the remarkable benefits that Supercol can offer your precious bundle of joy, take a moment to visit our website or reach out to us for further assistance.

Enter Supercol, a trusted, natural, and highly effective thickener that has been improving the lives of babies and their mums since 1992.

Game-Changer for Reflux and Swallowing Concerns

Swallowing issues can turn feeding time into a stressful event for both mum and bub. Thankfully, Supercol is here to save the day.

This thickener slows down the movement of liquids, reducing the risk of pulmonary aspiration, a common issue for babies dealing with dysphagia.

It ensures that feeds are easier to swallow and can significantly decrease vomiting following meals.

Mums who’ve used Supercol call all the time to share how Supercol’s thickener has been a true game-changer, transforming feeding time from stressful to enjoyable.

Gut-Friendly & Nutritionally Beneficial

Supercol isn’t just a thickener – it’s a gut-friendly, nutritionally beneficial addition to your baby’s diet. It stabilises the moisture content of your baby’s stool, softening it in cases of constipation and absorbing excess liquid during bouts of diarrhoea.

It’s a 100% pure and natural guar gum powder, made from real food, (not like other nasty gums created artificially)..

It’s low in saturated fats, cholesterol, sodium, and is a valuable source of dietary fibre and potassium – the perfect blend for supporting development.

Promotes Better Sleep for Mum and Bub

We all know that good sleep is crucial for both mum and bub. Supercol ensures that your baby can easily consume their thickened feed without fatiguing, thus helping to prevent dehydration, weight loss, and bad sleep habits.

As it absorbs a high amount of water, it also promotes a feeling of fullness- and we all know a well-fed baby is a happy, sleepy baby.

Safety Assured

Supercol is not only effective but also safe for your little ones.

Research has found that feed thickening is a proven intervention to decrease regurgitation associated with gastroesophageal reflux (GOR) in young children and babies.

Plus, studies on guar gum have shown no harm even at very high doses, concluding that it is not carcinogenic.

Cost-Effective and Convenient

Due to its high viscosity, only a small amount is needed, making Supercol a cost-effective solution.

Plus, the team here at Supercol offer a quick turnaround of orders to make things convenient for busy mums with express orders interstate often arriving 1 business day.

The Smart Choice for Mums: Supercol

Being a mum is rewarding but can also be challenging. Supercol is here to make your journey a little easier by providing a safe, effective, and natural solution for your baby’s reflux and swallowing issues. Ready to transform your baby’s feeding experience and get more peaceful nights of sleep? Start your journey with Supercol today. Join the many mums who trust and recommend Supercol for their baby’s nutritional needs.

Understanding the Basics

Both guar gum and xanthan gum serve as thickeners in the food industry. They help in improving the texture and consistency of products. But here’s the catch: they’re not the same.

Guar gum originates from the guar bean and has larger particles. This allows it to thicken more efficiently and effectively than other gums.

In contrast, xanthan gum, is man-made, consists of smaller particles, and produces a different, sometimes unpleasant texture.

Key Benefits of Using Guar Gum as a Thickener

1. Efficient Thickening: One of the standout qualities of guar gum is its excellent water-holding capacity. This means it can form a thick gel when mixed with water, making it effective in various food items, from soups to dairy products.
2. Versatility: Whether you’re cooking something cold or hot, guar gum has got you covered. Its compatibility with different food ingredients means it can seamlessly blend into most recipes.
3. Natural and Allergen-free: Made from the guar bean, guar gum is a natural galactomannan that helps to hold and thicken food without creating an unpleasant texture. It isn’t produced using common food allergens like xanthan gum, offering peace of mind to parents.

Cost-effectiveness and Value

Every mum loves a good deal! With guar gum, a little goes a long way. Its high viscosity means you need only a small amount to achieve the desired consistency. This not only saves money but ensures that your Supercol lasts longer.

Taste and Texture

While both thickeners are essentially tasteless and odorless, some parents have noticed an off aftertaste with xanthan gum due to the chemicals used in its production. Guar gum, being derived from a natural source, ensures that the taste of your baby’s food remains unchanged.

Health Implications to Consider

Here’s where the rubber meets the road. No mum wants to compromise her child’s health. Excessive xanthan gum can sometimes lead to stomach discomfort.

On the other hand, guar gum aids in maintaining the stool’s moisture content, proving beneficial for both diarrhea and constipation.

Moreover, the natural attributes of guar gum mean it doesn’t alter the nutritional composition of foods, unlike some processed additives.

Why Supercol Guar Gum Stands Out

Aside from the benefits already listed, Supercol’s guar gum comes from the nutrient-rich guar bean. It’s packed with fibre and has even been linked to reduced blood glucose and cholesterol levels.

When choosing between guar gum and xanthan gum, Supercol’s guar gum seems to have the edge in various aspects. From its natural origin to its health benefits, it’s an option that every mum should consider for her baby’s dietary needs.

Don’t compromise on quality when it comes to your child’s health. Choose Supercol’s guar gum for a natural, effective, and cost-efficient thickening solution. Click here to purchase your jar today!

Babies tend to spend a lot of time on their back, so reflux is a lot more noticeable, and it is normal for all babies to experience some form of reflux on a daily basis. In most cases, the reflux is not a cause for concern, but it does require attention if the reflux interferes with the baby’s health, and quality of life.

Potential red flags include discomfort or weight loss, and this might be an indication of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD).

Symptoms of Infant Reflux

Occasional reflux is normal, and does not require a visit to the family doctor, but there are times when it is best to speak to your GP.

Contact your GP if your baby:

• Is not gaining weight
• Projectile vomits
• Spits up green or yellow fluid
• Spits up blood
• Refuses to eat
• Has blood in their stool
• Struggles to breathe
• Coughs chronically
• Is unhappy after eating

What causes reflux?

Infant reflux is normally due to the lower oesophageal sphincter (LES) not being fully developed, and allowing the stomach contents to flow back up. This will recover with time. This is also made worse due to babies lying flat, consuming a liquid diet, and in cases where the baby was born prematurely.

More serious causes include:

• GERD – High acid in the reflux can damage the lining of the oesophagus
• Pyloric stenosis – A narrowing of the valve between the stomach and the small intestine
• Food intolerance – Brought upon by the protein in cow’s milk
• Eosinophilic oesophagitis – A build-up of eosinophil, damaging the lining of the oesophagus

Complications of reflux

Most babies outgrow infant reflux, and will make a full recovery.

More serious conditions, including GERD, may affect and even stunt growth, and they may develop GERD in later years.

Diagnosing Infant Reflux

Your GP will conduct a physical exam, ask questions about your baby’s symptoms, and where needed, refer you to a paediatrician.

Additional testing may be required, including:

• An ultrasound to test for pyloric stenosis
• Lab tests to identify causes of projectile vomiting
• pH Monitoring of your baby’s oesophagus to test acidity
• X-Rays to test for abnormalities in the digestive tract
• An upper endoscopy to video possible causes

Treating infant reflux

Most babies can be treated with changes to diet, sleep positioning, using food thickeners, and waiting for them to outgrow their symptoms.

Medication may be used if the baby suffers from asthma, has poor weight gain, refuses to eat, or have an inflamed oesophagus.

Surgery is an extreme procedure that will tighten the oesophageal sphincter. This procedure is normally only required if the reflux interferes with growth or breathing.