Becoming a parent introduces you to various new experiences, one of which may be dealing with a gassy baby.
You’re out enjoying a coffee when suddenly your baby starts squirming and grimacing.
It’s baby gas — a common yet uncomfortable issue for infants.
Here’s everything you need to know about recognizing infant gas, its causes, and the best ways to alleviate it.
Why is My Baby So Gassy?
Gassiness in babies is typical, especially during the early weeks and months.
Babies often swallow air during feeding, and their immature digestive systems struggle to break down food effectively, leading to gas.
Most babies experience gas within their first few weeks, but by 4 to 6 months, many outgrow the discomfort.
However, some babies might continue to have gas for longer.
In some cases, gas may be related to sensitivities to formulas or even foods that a breastfeeding mother consumes.
Symptoms of a Gassy Baby
While all babies pass gas, there are telltale signs that your baby is experiencing more than just the usual gassiness:
- Crying for an extended period: If your baby is fussy or cries for over an hour, it may signal gas discomfort.
- Constant fussiness: An unhappy baby who is frequently unsettled might need extra help managing gas.
- Trouble eating or sleeping: Gassiness can disrupt sleep or feeding times. If these symptoms persist, consult your pediatrician.
- Squirming and pulling legs to the chest: This can indicate discomfort, particularly during bouts of fussiness.
What Causes Infant Gas?
Several factors contribute to baby gas:
- Swallowing air: Babies often swallow air during feeding or crying, which can lead to gas.
- Underdeveloped digestive system: Food may pass too quickly through their digestive tract, causing incomplete digestion and gas buildup.
- Formula or diet sensitivities: Some babies may be sensitive to certain formulas, or in breastfeeding babies, gas can stem from specific foods in the mother’s diet.
Best Remedies for Baby Gas Relief
If your baby seems uncomfortable due to gas, here are some effective remedies you can try:
1. Burp Your Baby Twice
Burping your baby not just after feedings but also mid-feed can help release trapped air before it reaches the bowels.
If you’re bottle-feeding, try burping every 2-3 ounces; for breastfeeding, every 5-10 minutes can help, though it might be a bit more challenging.
2. Control Air Intake During Feeding
Feed your baby in an upright position to minimize air swallowing. For bottle-fed babies, anti-gas bottles and nipples can reduce air intake.
If breastfeeding, ensure your baby has a proper latch. Also, avoid shaking bottles too much as this can add air bubbles to the milk.
3. Feed Before Crying Begins
The longer your baby cries, the more air they swallow. Try to feed your baby at the first sign of hunger to reduce crying and prevent gas buildup.
4. Try the Colic Carry
Position your baby tummy-down across your knees, or support them under their belly with your forearm while gently rubbing their back.
This can help relieve gas pressure and calm a fussy baby.
5. Use Gas Drops
Simethicone-based gas drops are generally safe for babies and can help break up gas bubbles.
Consult your pediatrician before use to confirm the right type and dosage.
6. Do Baby Bicycles
Gently cycle your baby’s legs in a bicycling motion, or push their knees toward their tummy for about 10 seconds, then release.
Repeating this a few times can help push out trapped air.
7. Encourage Tummy Time
Supervised tummy time can help your baby pass gas while strengthening their muscles.
Wait at least 20-30 minutes after feeding before placing your baby on their tummy to avoid spit-ups.
8. Try Gripe Water or Chamomile Tea
Consult your pediatrician before using gripe water or chamomile tea to help soothe gas.
While some parents find these remedies helpful, more research is needed to confirm their effectiveness.
9. Check Your Diet (For Breastfeeding Moms)
If you notice your baby becomes gassier after you consume certain foods, consider removing potential culprits like dairy, caffeine, or cruciferous vegetables from your diet.
Discuss these changes with your doctor before making any significant adjustments.
10. Test Different Formulas
Some formulas are designed to reduce gas. Protein hydrolysate-based formulas or those with lower lactose content might be easier on your baby’s stomach.
Consult with your doctor before making any formula changes.
Can Breastfeeding Make a Baby Gassy?
While some research suggests that foods in a breastfeeding mother’s diet may contribute to baby gas, the evidence is inconclusive.
Before making drastic changes to your diet, try adjusting feeding techniques to reduce air intake.
If certain foods seem to trigger gas, consult your doctor before eliminating them entirely.
When to Call the Doctor
If gas is causing extreme discomfort or if you notice signs like poor weight gain or excessive fussiness, it’s essential to consult your pediatrician.
Persistent gas can sometimes indicate a more serious underlying issue, such as food allergies or lactose intolerance.
