How do I get rid of gas while breastfeeding?

Understanding Gas in Breastfed Babies
Breastfeeding is often heralded as the best source of nutrition for infants, but it can come with its own set of challenges, one of which is gas. Many breastfeeding mothers find themselves grappling with the discomfort their babies experience due to gas. Understanding the causes and potential solutions can help alleviate this common issue.
Causes of Gas in Breastfed Babies
Gas in breastfed babies is a frequent occurrence, affecting nearly all infants at some point. The primary reason for this is that babies can swallow air while nursing, especially if they are feeding too quickly or are fussy. Additionally, certain foods in a mother’s diet can contribute to gas production in breastfed babies. Foods such as beans, broccoli, and dairy are known culprits that may lead to increased gas.
Dietary Considerations for Nursing Mothers
To help reduce gas in their babies, breastfeeding mothers might consider adjusting their diets. While breast milk is generally well-tolerated, some babies may react to specific foods consumed by their mothers. It’s advisable to monitor the baby’s reactions after the mother eats certain foods and to eliminate those that seem to cause discomfort.
Techniques to Alleviate Gas
There are several strategies that mothers can employ to help manage gas in their breastfed babies:
1. Breastfeeding Position: Adopting a laid-back breastfeeding position can be beneficial. This involves reclining while the baby is positioned belly-to-belly with the mother, which can help reduce the amount of air the baby swallows during feeding.
2. Burping Techniques: Regularly burping the baby during and after feeds can help release trapped air. Gentle patting on the back or holding the baby upright for a few minutes post-feeding can facilitate this process.
3. Tummy Time and Massage: Engaging in tummy time can help relieve gas. Additionally, gentle stomach massages can encourage the release of gas and provide comfort to the baby.
4. Monitoring Feeding Cues: Paying attention to the baby’s feeding cues can help prevent overfeeding, which can lead to increased gas. Feeding the baby when they show signs of hunger rather than on a strict schedule can help manage this issue.
Conclusion
Gas in breastfed babies is a common concern that can often be managed through dietary adjustments and mindful feeding practices. By understanding the potential causes and employing effective techniques, mothers can help soothe their babies and create a more comfortable breastfeeding experience. If gas persists or is accompanied by other concerning symptoms, consulting a pediatrician is always a prudent step.

When does postpartum gas go away?

Postpartum gas is a natural part of having a baby and typically goes away on its own. Most people recover control of their bowels a few months after giving birth. If other symptoms accompany postpartum gas, it is a good idea to speak to a doctor. The doctor can check if any pelvic floor injuries need further repair.

How can I help my gassy baby fart?

Some positioning tips: Feed your baby as upright as possible; lay your child on their back and pedal their legs with your hands to help expel gas from below; if your child is awake after a feeding, place them on their belly. Increase tummy time.

What to eat when breastfeeding a gassy baby?

Include protein foods 2-3 times per day such as meat, poultry, fish, eggs, dairy, beans, nuts and seeds. Eat three servings of vegetables, including dark green and yellow vegetables per day. Eat two servings of fruit per day. Include whole grains such as whole wheat breads, pasta, cereal and oatmeal in your daily diet.

Why avoid strawberries while breastfeeding?

A quart or more of orange juice or a diet heavy in seasonal fruits such as strawberries, melons or cherries have been associated with diarrhea and colicky symptoms in some infants. Foods containing many preservatives, additives or dyes have been associated with signs of discomfort in some babies.

How can I reduce gas while breastfeeding?

Burp him throughout the feedings to help get rid of the gas. Try not to let your baby overfeed or feed too quickly. Keep track of when your baby is gassy and look back at your diet. Try to learn which foods work and don’t work for you and your baby, and remember, each baby is uniquely different.

What should a mother eat when a baby has gas?

Some babies also may become fussy with the consumption of gas-producing foods (broccoli, cabbage, beans, etc.). If you notice this you may want to substitute other vegetables and lean proteins into your diet. Some foods may cause an allergy in an infant also, although this area needs additional research.

What causes excessive gas in breastfed babies?

Common causes of gas discomfort in breastfed babies:
An incorrect latch while nursing leads your baby to swallow too much air. Excessive crying fills your baby’s belly with air. Strong let-down or oversupply, causing baby to gulp quickly and swallow air. Constipation.

What is the best position to breastfeed to reduce gas?

And upright breastfeeding positions like laid-back breastfeeding and cradle hold are also good if your child is frequently gassy.

How long does postpartum gas last?

You also may have painful gas. This may happen for a few days after you give birth. What you can do: Eat foods that are high in fiber.

What is best for gas while breastfeeding?

Medicines to treat gas and bloating, such as Gas-X, Maalox, Mylanta, and others, are safe to take while breastfeeding. They contain simethicone, which is sometimes given to infants. It is also not absorbed into the mother’s system, so wouldn’t be transmitted in breast milk.