Description
Gelmix is the #1 Pediatric Choice for Breast Milk and Formula
Gelmix Infant Thickener is the first and only USDA organic thickener specifically formulated for pediatric use in America. Developed by a pediatric gastroenterologist, Gelmix is the #1 pediatric choice for breast milk and formula used in the management of reflux and swallowing problems.*
Thickened Feeds for Reflux and Dysphagia
Gelmix thickens both breast milk and infant formula, facilitating the retention of nutrients of infant feeds when thickening is recommended for normal spit-up and swallowing difficulties. Thickening feeds is a first line therapy approach in the treatment of gastroesophageal reflux, as well as the most successful feeding intervention associated with improved outcomes for children with oropharyngeal dysphagia.
Tasteless, Odorless and Smooth
Consisting of an off-white fine powder, Gelmix mixes easily into warm milk and creates a smooth thickened liquid that flows through regular infant nipples. Gelmix does not add any taste or smell, so is easily accepted with breast milk and formula.
Made with Better Ingredients
Gelmix is certified USDA Organic and made of Organic Tapioca Maltodextrin, Organic Carob Bean Gum, and Calcium Carbonate. Gelmix is hypoallergenic, free of corn, soy, wheat, gluten, dairy, whey, lactose & casein. Gelmix is also non-GMO, vegan & certified Kosher.
Compared to Rice Cereal
Rice cereal traditionally has been used for thickening baby’s milk, however it cannot be used with breast milk and it displaces the natural diet significantly when used with infant formula. Rice cereal never worked to thicken breast milk because the starch breaks down the enzymes in the breast milk, thinning it out and making it ineffective. Though rice cereal does thicken formula, it displaces the natural diet of fats and proteins significantly with starch.
Contraindications
Do not use for infants under 6 pounds or born preterm currently under a corrected age of 2 weeks (aka 42 weeks postmenstrual age). Do not use if galactosemia or allergy to galactomannans is suspected. Stop using if rash or other allergic reaction develops. Allergies to galactomannans are rare.
Side Effects
May cause gassiness and loose stools at start. This usually subsides on its own within 1-2 weeks of use or by reducing amount used.
*These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.
How Much to Thicken
Always consult a medical professional before thickening liquids to ensure it is appropriate for your childʼs individual needs. If thickening is recommended to reduce spit-ups, a slightly thick consistency is usually effective. Start with one scoop Gelmix (1.2g) per 3-4 fl. oz. and increase as recommended.
If thickening is recommended due to swallowing difficulties, carefully follow your healthcare provider’s instructions on which consistency to safely thicken up to.
Instructions for Preparation
Usage Recommendations
Tips on Thickening Breast Milk
Always follow CDC guidelines on safe handling and storing of breast milk. Breast milk tends to be thinner than formula, needing more thickener. Use the higher usage recommendation to achieve desired consistency, 2.4g/4oz (slightly thick) or 2.4g/3oz (mildly thick).
For best results, mix Gelmix with freshly expressed milk at body temperature. In a clean, sealed container, the mixture may sit at room temperature up to 4 hours or in the refrigerator up to 24 hours. The thickened mixture is also freeze-thaw stable and can be stored frozen for up to 4 months.
Gelmix may also be mixed with previously frozen or thawed milk, however once breast milk is brought to room temperature or warmed after storing in the refrigerator or freezer, it should be used within two hours. According to the CDC, breast milk should not be rewarmed more than once.
Tips on Thickening Infant Formula and Water
Always follow manufacturer’s guidelines on safe handling and storage of formulas. Elemental formulas tend to be thinner than regular infant formulas.
Thickened water may be stored in a clean, sealed container at room temperature for up to 24 hours. Then, just mix in the the powder formula when ready to feed.
Use prepared infant formula within one hour from when feeding begins. If you do not start to use the prepared infant formula within 1 hour, immediately store the bottle in the fridge and use it within 24 hours.
