Each stick pack thickens 3 - 6 fl oz (90-180 ml)
Gelmix Stick Box
30 x 2.4g Stick Packs
SAFELY THICKEN BREAST MILK & FORMULA
Gelmix is a thickener for breast milk and infant formula that promotes healthier, happier feeding. It facilitates the retention of nutrients of infant feeds when thickening is recommended for spit-up or swallowing difficulties, such as gastroesophageal reflux (GERD) and oropharyngeal dysphagia.
TASTELESS, ODORLESS, SMOOTH & STABLE
Gelmix is a tasteless, odorless, off-white fine powder that dissolves into lukewarm liquid and produces a smooth, thickened consistency. Most liquids can be prepared up to 24 hours in advance & rewarmed for feeding.
SAFE FOR INFANTS
Gelmix is specifically formulated for pediatric use and recommended for healthy babies with normal spit-up and swallowing difficulties. Gelmix is safe for infants born term (> 37 weeks) who weigh at least 6 lbs (2.73 kg). It is not recommended for preterm infants until they are 2 weeks corrected age (42 weeks postmenstrual age) and weigh over 6 lbs (2.73 kg). Infants over 1 year can transition up to PuraThick organic thickener, which can be mixed with cold or warm liquids.
BETTER FOR FOOD SENSITIVITIES
Gelmix is hypoallergenic, meaning it is free of corn, whey, gluten, soy, dairy and any of the common allergens. Gelmix is also GMO Free, USDA Organic & Kosher Organics certified. It consists of three ingredients: Organic Tapioca Maltodextrin, Organic Carob Bean Gum and Calcium Carbonate. Carob bean gum has been used in Europe for decades as a thickener in the preparation of infant formula.
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.
POSSIBLE 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.
COMPARISON OF GELMIX VS INFANT CEREAL
Gelmix was designed as a greatly improved alternative to thickening with cereals. Cereals do not effectively thicken breast milk and they displace the natural nutritional balance of baby's diet.
- How to Mix
- Nutrition Info
- FAQ
- Literature
- Pharmacies
- Reviews
GELMIX USAGE AND STORAGE INFORMATION
Gelmix comes in a wide, easy to use, resealable jar with a 1.2g measuring scoop, and is also available in convenient single serving stick packs (2.4 g) . Tightly recap the jar between uses and store in a cool, dry place, protected from heat and light.
Each jar includes a 1/2 serving scoop (1.2g), equivalent to 1/2 tsp.
Each single serving stick pack includes 2.4g of thickening powder.
Always consult a medical professional before thickening liquids to ensure it is appropriate for your child's individual needs.
HOW TO PREPARE WHEN THICKENING IS RECOMMENDED TO REDUCE SPIT-UPS (REFLUX)
- Warm bottled milk to 98.6°F/37°C. Freshly expressed breast milk at body temperature is sufficient.
- Add Gelmix powder starting with 2.4g (1 stick or 2 scoops) per 6 fl oz. Cap and mix well for 30 seconds, until powder is completely dissolved.
- Allow to thicken and cool at least 5 minutes, then mix again. Test temperature before feeding.
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Click here for detailed instructions
Start with the lowest amount of Gelmix recommended. Gradually increase up to 2.4g per 90 mL (3 fl oz), if needed. It is best to offer smaller, more frequent feeds to avoid overfeeding.
HOW TO PREPARE WHEN THICKENING IS RECOMMENDED FOR DYSPHAGIA OR SWALLOWING DIFFICULTY
- Start with warmed water or prepared formula (about 100°F/38°C) or warm breast milk (about 98.6°F/37°C).
- Sprinkle in Gelmix powder, following Usage Recommendation below, or Click Here to find recipes for specific formulas.
- Cap and shake well for 30 seconds, until powder is completely dissolved.
- Allow to thicken and cool for at least 5 minutes (10 minutes for breast milk), then mix again for 30 seconds before feeding.
- Click here for detailed instructions
USAGE RECOMMENDATION
| WHEN THICKENING FOR DYSPHAGIA OR SWALLOWING DIFFICULTY | ||
|---|---|---|
 |
SLIGHTLY THICK (aka Thin Nectar) |
Add 2.4g (2 Scoops or 1 Stick Pack) per 4 fl oz (120 mL) |
 |
MILDLY THICK (aka Nectar) |
Add 2.4g (2 Scoops or 1 Stick Pack) per 3 fl oz (90 mL) |
 |
MODERATELY THICK (aka Honey) ** |
Add 2.4g (2 Scoops or 1 Stick Pack) per 2 fl oz (60 mL) |
** Moderately thick-Level 3 should only be used under medical supervision. It can be difficult to pass the thicker consistency through a nipple, increasing risk of poor oral intake and dehydration.
ADVANCE PREPARATION AND STORAGE
Thickened freshly expressed breast milk and prepared formulas can be sTored in a clean, sealed container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Rewarm for feeding.
Thickened water can be stored at room temperature for 24 hours. When ready to feed, just mix in powder formula.
Always follow CDC guidelines on safe handling and storage of expressed milk and prepared infant formulas.
POSSIBLE SIDE EFFECTS
Gelmix may cause gassiness and loose stools at the start. This usually subsides on its own within 1-2 weeks of use or by reducing the amount used. Sometimes adding gas drops or probiotic can help, but always discuss this with your pediatrician first.
IDDSI FUNNEL & FLOW TEST
Variations in breast milk and temperature when mixed impact thickness, so it's important to test your recipe the first 2-3 times. The IDDSI Flow Test is a practical measure of flow rate or thickness. IDDSI funnels are available to purchased from Caring Solutions. More information and alternative testing methods may be found on the International Dysphagia Diet Standardization Initiative website (www.IDDSI.org).
MIXING VIDEOS & PRINTABLE MIXING GUIDES
Mixing Guide - When Thickening is Recommended to Reduce Spit-Ups/Reflux
Mixing Guide - When Thickening is Recommended for Dysphagia
TIPS ON THICKENING BREAST MILK
Always follow Health Canada and CDC guidelines on safe handling and storing of breast milk. Breast milk tends to be thinner than formula, needing more thickener. Use the higher Useage Recommendation to achieve desired consistency of 2.4g per 4 oz (120 ml) for Slightly Thick, or 2.4g per 3 oz (90 ml) for 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 FORMULA & 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 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.
Gelmix is not intended for use with pre-thickened formulas or in addition to other thickening products.
| Nutrition Info / Valeur nutritive | |
|---|---|
|
Serving Size / Portion: 2.4g (2 Scoops or 1 stick / 2 mesures ou 1 sachet) Servings Per Container / Portions par emballage: 52 |
|
| Amount Per Serving | % Daily Value / % valeur quotidienne * |
| Calories / Calories 10 | |
| Total Fat / Lipides 0g | 0% |
| Sodium / Sodium 0mg | 0% |
| Carbohydrate / Glucides 2g | 2% |
| Carbohydrate 2g | 1% |
| Fibre / Fibres <1g | |
| Sugars / Sucres 0g | |
| Protein / Protéines 0g | |
| Calcium / Calcium 10mg | 4% |
|
Not a significant source of saturated fat, trans fat, cholesterol, fibre, sugars, vitamin A, vitamin C or iron. Source négligeable de lipides saturés, lipides trans, cholestérol, fibres, sucres, vitamine A, vitamine C et fer. |
|
|
* % Daily Values for Infants through 12 months. / % valeur quotidienne pour les nourrissons jusq'a 12 mois. |
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Ingredients: Organic tapioca maltodextrin, Organic carob bean gum, Calcium carbonate Ingrédients: Maltodextrine de tapioca biologique, Gomme de caroube biologuique, Carbonate de calcium |
Recommend use within 30 days of opening jar. / Utiliser dans les 30 jours suivant l'ouverture.
Alberta Blue Cross DIN: 00999610
Non-Insured Health Benefits (NIHB) DIN: 95900190
Is Gelmix a powder or gel?
Gelmix is a powder thickener that gels up when mixed with warm liquids. The reason it is called “Gelmix” is because of the smooth gel-like mouth feel it creates when mixed into liquids.
Is Gelmix free of common allergens?
Yes, Gelmix is free of all common allergens. Gelmix does not contain any dairy, corn, soy, wheat, gluten, lactose or casein. Allergies to carob bean gum (from the galactomannan family) are extremely rare in academic literature. Gelmix is also vegan, GMO free and certified USDA organic and kosher.
Where is Gelmix manufactured?
Gelmix products are manufactured at a nut free USDA organic certified GMP plant in South Florida. The USDA seal means that Gelmix follows the National Organic Program, which means less contamination with potentially harmful chemicals and no GMOs. Gelmix also undergoes strict manufacturing and testing.
Why do I have to use WARM breast milk or formula?
Gelmix works best with warm breast milk or formula. In order to ensure the powder dissolves easily and creates a thickened consistency, Gelmix must be mixed into lukewarm liquid (around 100°F). Freshly expressed breast milk at body temperature is sufficiently warm. Be careful not to overheat the liquid. Hot water greater than 120°F is too hot and may cause the Gelmix to clump, and breast milk quality deteriorates significantly at temperatures above 120°F.
What kinds of liquids will Gelmix thicken?
Gelmix was specifically formulated to thicken breast milk and formula, however it can thicken any liquid that can be warmed for mixing. If you’re looking to thicken milk, water or juice for children over 12 months old, Purathick Natural Thickener, for hot and cold liquids, is a better option.
How thick can Gelmix make liquids?
Gelmix effectively thickens liquids to Slightly Thick (thin nectar), Mildly Thick (nectar) and Moderately Thick (honey).
However, Moderately Thick liquids are more difficult to pass through a nipple/teat and are NOT typically recommended for infants. This difficulty may increase risk of dehydration due to poor oral intake. Always consult a medical professional before thickening liquids to ensure it is appropriate for your infant’s individual needs.
I’m getting clumps, what can I do to prevent that?
Hot liquids (>120°F) may cause the Gelmix to clump, so be careful not to overheat. Work quickly when mixing to avoid clumps. When the Gelmix sits in the liquid for too long without mixing, it starts to bind and becomes more difficult to assimilate.
How many teaspoons are in a serving of Gelmix?
A full serving of Gelmix is 2.4g, equivalent to 1 tsp. The scoop that comes with the jar is a half serving 1.2g scoop, equivalent to 1/2 tsp.
What is the displacement factor per 2.4g (1tsp) of Gelmix?
One of the advantages of using Gelmix over other thickeners is that the displacement is very low. Gelmix requires only 2.4g per 90-120 ml (3-4 fl oz) for Mildly Thick (Nectar) consistency, and adds 10 calories. 2.4g Gelmix per 120 ml (4 oz) displaces the liquid about 2.5 ml, or a ratio of about 1 ml per 48 ml.
Can I mix breast milk ahead of time with Gelmix?
Yes, lukewarm breast milk mixed with Gelmix may be stored in a sealed container at room temperature (up to 77°F) for 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.
Is it safe to warm breast milk? How should I do it?
Thawed breast milk or pre-thickened feeds can be rewarmed by placing bottles in a container of warm water. Rewarm for no more than 15 minutes and check the temperature – it should feel lukewarm, not hot. Breast milk should not be rewarmed more than once.
Can I mix formula ahead of time with Gelmix?
Gelmix may be prepared with warm formula up to 24 hours in advance. Mix & store in a clean, sealed container in the refrigerator. Feeds can be rewarmed by placing in a container of warm water. Rewarm for no longer than 15 minutes and check the temperature – it should feel lukewarm, not hot. If served cold, the mixture will be thicker.
For powder formulas, you can also mix just water and Gelmix in advance, and then add formula when ready to feed. Gelmix + water can be stored in a clean, sealed container at room temperature for up to 24 hours
What if my infant experiences gassiness or loose stools when starting Gelmix?
Gelmix contains natural fiber, and transient gassiness is a common side effect among infants using Gelmix for the first time. Gassiness usually subsides within two weeks of use or by reducing the amount used. Always consult a physician if your infant exhibits any signs of dehydration.
Do I need to crosscut the nipple or increase the nipple size for thickened feeds?
Gelmix mixes into a smooth texture that flows easily through regular sized nipples. Not all babies have the same strength or drive, so consult with your pediatrician or feeding therapist on where to start. It may be necessary to go up a size for thickened feedings, however cross cutting the nipple is a very dangerous practice and is not necessary for thickened feeds with Gelmix.
My formula has a probiotic. Can I use it with Gelmix?
Heat can damage the probiotic. Since heating the liquid is required to mix with Gelmix, it is not recommended to use ready to feed formulas that contain a probiotic. For powder formulas, Gelmix can be mixed with warm water to thicken, then allowed to cool down before mixing in the powder formula.
Can Gelmix be used with preterm infants?
Gelmix is contraindicated for preterm and low birth weight infants until they have reached a minimum weight of six pounds (2.73 kg) and a corrected age of 2 weeks (42 weeks post-menstrual age). Always consult a medical professional before thickening liquids to ensure it is appropriate for your infant’s individual needs.
Is Gelmix covered by insurance?
Gelmix is covered by Alberta Blue Cross and NIHB programs. Most insurance companies will provide coverage for Gelmix if your physician provides a prescription and it is filled by a pharmacy.
Alberta Blue Cross DIN: 00999610
Non-Insured Health Benefits (NIHB) DIN: 95900190
Gelmix and Purathick are available at these pharmacies:
Specialty Food Shop
The Hospital For Sick Children
110 Elm Street
Toronto, ON
1-800-737-7976
KidCare Pharmacy
Children’s Hospital of Eastern Ontario (CHEO)
401 Smyth Road
Ottawa, ON
613-737-2316
McMaster Pharmacy
McMaster Children's Hospital
1200 Main Street W
Hamilton, ON
905-521-5019
Lasalle Clinic Pharmacy
1813 Lasalle Blvd
Sudbury, ON
705-521-1811
Embrun IDA Compounding Pharmacy
934 Notre Dame St
Embrun, ON
613-443-2999
Pharmacie Georges Rizkallah
6140 boul Henri-Bourassa Est
Montreal, QC
514-324-9931
Pharmacie Andre Cyr
3175 Chemin de la Cote-Sainite Catherine, Niveau A
Montreal, QC
514-345-2191
Pharmacie Abikhzer
1001 Boul Decarie
Montreal, QC
514-598-1888
Brunet Pharmacie
1150 Boulevard Saint-René O
Gatineau, QC
819-246-5722
SRx Pharmacy
8625 - 112 Street NW (Campus Tower, lower level)
Edmonton, AB
587-454-2413
Market Drugs Medical
10203 - 97 Street
Edmonton, AB
800-282-3913
Saskatoon Family Pharmacy (Gelmix Only)
415 Wellman Crescent, #120
Saskatoon, SK
306-668-4777
Shoppers Drug Mart
2410 - 22 Street W, Unit 20
Saskatoon, SK
306-382-5005
Medicentre Pharmacy (Gelmix Only)
1 - 2685 Second Avenue West
Prince Albert, SK
306-763-2022
