This session will focus on common concerns regarding infant digestive health and useful support strategies that care providers can incorporate into their work with families. We will discuss what’s normal and what’s not in regard to stooling, spit up/reflux, colic/fussiness, food sensitivities, and more. Many parents are coping with babies that are uncomfortable and unhappy due to digestive health concerns. Dealing with a fussy, uncomfortable baby is emotionally and physically draining. Having a basic understanding of infant gut health and care strategies can be useful tools for any type of practitioner working with infants.

The presentation objectives include:

• Understand the physiological process of how allergens can pass from parent to baby
• Identify the differences between sensitivities and allergies
• Understand the development and importance of the neonatal enteric nervous system
• Identify care plan ideas for infants coping with digestive issues

Note: The topic of infant digestion is something parents and professionals alike are curious to know more about. Melissa explains the development of the digestive system and discusses gut healing and coping strategies for infants struggling with colic, reflux, food allergies, oral restrictions impacting proper swallowing, etc. Melissa is well-respected in her community and beyond for her work regarding infant gut health and digestion.