When a baby vomits, parents often wonder when and what to feed them. This guide provides practical advice on reintroducing liquids and foods, and identifies when to seek medical attention.
Reintroducing Feeds After Vomiting
After a baby vomits, allow their stomach to rest for 15 to 30 minutes, or longer if vomiting persists, to prevent further upset. Observe for signs of readiness, such as a settled stomach and a desire to feed, to determine the best time to restart.
When reintroducing feeds, begin with very small amounts to avoid overwhelming the baby’s digestive system. For breastfed infants, offer the breast for 5 minutes every 30 to 60 minutes. If formula-fed, start with 1 to 2 teaspoons (5-10 mL) of liquid every 5 minutes.
Gradually increase the feeding amount if the baby tolerates initial small quantities without further vomiting. After two hours without throwing up, the amount offered can be doubled. If vomiting recurs, pause feeding for another 20 to 30 minutes before trying again with smaller amounts. Regular feeding patterns typically resume after 4 to 8 hours without vomiting, with a slow increase in volume.
Best Foods and Liquids to Offer
Focus on rehydration with appropriate liquids. For formula-fed infants, oral rehydration solutions (ORS) like Pedialyte are recommended in small, frequent amounts to replace lost electrolytes and fluids. Breastfed babies typically do not require ORS, as breast milk is usually sufficient.
Administer liquids using a spoon, syringe, or small cup, offering 1 to 2 teaspoons every 5 to 15 minutes. Once the baby keeps liquids down consistently for several hours, gradually reintroduce solid foods for older infants. Suitable choices include plain, easy-to-digest options like baby cereals, crackers, toast, bananas, or applesauce.
Avoid certain foods and liquids immediately after vomiting. Sugary drinks, like fruit juice or carbonated beverages, can worsen diarrhea and upset the stomach. Initially, avoid milk products. Greasy, fried, highly acidic, or high-fiber foods should also be withheld until the baby has fully recovered.
When to Contact a Doctor
Seek medical attention if your baby shows signs of dehydration, such as fewer wet diapers (less than six in 24 hours or none for eight hours), a dry mouth or tongue, crying without tears, a sunken soft spot, or sunken eyes.
Call a doctor for persistent vomiting, especially if the baby vomits everything for over 8 hours, or if vomiting lasts longer than 12 hours. For babies under 12 weeks old, seek medical advice if vomiting occurs two or more times. Forceful or projectile vomiting also requires immediate evaluation.
Prompt medical consultation is needed for specific vomit characteristics. This includes any presence of blood (red, black, or coffee grounds). Green or yellow-green vomit can indicate a bowel obstruction and requires prompt attention. Accompanying symptoms like a high fever (over 100.4°F for infants under 3 months), severe abdominal pain, extreme sleepiness, or inconsolable crying are also warning signs.