Effects of Pectin Liquid on Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease in Children with Cerebral Palsy
Author Information
Author(s): Miyazawa Reiko, Tomomasa Takeshi, Kaneko Hiroaki, Arakawa Hirokazu, Shimizu Nobuzo, Morikawa Akihiro
Primary Institution: Gunma University Graduate School of Medicine
Hypothesis
Does thickening food with pectin liquid improve gastroesophageal reflux disease symptoms in children with cerebral palsy?
Conclusion
Pectin liquid partially decreased gastroesophageal reflux and might improve vomiting and respiratory symptoms in children with cerebral palsy.
Supporting Evidence
- The median number of episodes of vomiting decreased significantly with a high-pectin diet.
- The median cough-score was significantly decreased by both concentrations of pectin.
- The % time pH < 4 at the lower and upper esophagus was significantly decreased with a high-pectin diet.
Takeaway
Adding pectin to food can help kids with cerebral palsy who have reflux problems feel better and vomit less.
Methodology
The study involved 18 children with cerebral palsy, who were given either a high-pectin or low-pectin diet, and their reflux symptoms were monitored using esophageal pH monitoring and clinical assessments.
Potential Biases
Potential bias due to the lack of blinding in the clinical trial phase.
Limitations
The study had a small sample size and was conducted in a single region, which may limit the generalizability of the findings.
Participant Demographics
18 children (16 male, 2 female) with an average age of 11.7 years, all with cerebral palsy.
Statistical Information
P-Value
P < 0.01
Confidence Interval
6.2–22.6 for high-pectin diet; 3.1–13.1 for low-pectin diet
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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