How do you treat gas in breastfed babies?

Understanding Gas in Breastfed Babies
Gas in breastfed babies is a common concern for many new parents. Almost all infants experience gas at some point, leading to fussiness and discomfort. Understanding the causes and effective treatments can help alleviate this issue and provide reassurance to parents.
Causes of Gas
Gas in infants can arise from several factors. One primary cause is the way babies feed. If a baby swallows air while breastfeeding or bottle-feeding, it can lead to gas buildup. This can happen due to a poor latch, an oversized nipple, or even a fast milk flow that causes the baby to gulp air. Additionally, some mothers worry that their diet might be contributing to their baby’s gas. While certain foods can affect breast milk, it’s generally unlikely that what a mother eats will directly cause gas in her baby.
Signs of Gas
Parents should be aware of the signs that their baby may be experiencing gas. Common indicators include excessive fussiness, squirming, or crying after feedings. Babies may also pull their legs toward their belly or appear uncomfortable. Recognizing these signs can help parents take timely action to soothe their little ones.
Treatment Options
There are several strategies parents can employ to help relieve gas in their breastfed babies:
1. Feeding Techniques: Ensuring a proper latch during breastfeeding is crucial. A shallow latch can cause the baby to swallow more air. If bottle-feeding, consider using a paced bottle-feeding technique, which mimics breastfeeding and helps regulate the flow of milk.
2. Burping: Frequent burping during and after feedings can help release trapped air. Parents can try burping their baby after every few ounces of milk or when switching breasts during breastfeeding.
3. Probiotics: Some studies suggest that probiotics may help ease colic, which is often linked to gas. Parents might consider discussing the use of infant probiotic drops with their pediatrician.
4. Tummy Time: Engaging in tummy time can help relieve gas. The pressure on the abdomen can encourage the release of gas and provide comfort to the baby.
5. Gentle Massage: A gentle tummy massage can also be beneficial. Parents can use circular motions on the baby’s belly to help move gas along the digestive tract.
6. Warm Baths: A warm bath can relax the baby and help ease discomfort associated with gas. The warmth can soothe the baby and promote relaxation.
7. Consulting a Pediatrician: If gas persists or is accompanied by other concerning symptoms, it’s essential to consult a pediatrician. They can rule out any underlying issues and provide tailored advice.
Conclusion
While gas in breastfed babies can be distressing for both the infant and the parents, understanding its causes and implementing effective treatment strategies can significantly alleviate discomfort. By focusing on feeding techniques, burping, and gentle soothing methods, parents can help their babies feel more comfortable and content. If concerns persist, seeking professional guidance is always a wise step.

Why is my breast milk making my baby gassy?

Causes of baby gas
Your baby’s tummy is still developing and learning to digest, so food doesn’t break down completely yet. Swallowing air. Babies often swallow air when sucking on the breast or a bottle, especially if they drink too quickly or don’t have an optimal latch on the nipple.

What position should I breastfeed to avoid gas?

Use positions for feeding that keep baby’s head higher than her tummy, such as a laid-back position or having baby diagonally across your chest in a cradle hold. Avoid positions that have baby bending at the waist, putting more pressure on her tummy.

How to reduce gas in a breastfed baby?

If you find yourself with a breastfed baby that has a lot of gas, there are many different things you can try to help them feel better:

1. Burp frequently.
2. Turn to tummy time.
3. Perform baby massage.
4. Bicycle their legs.
5. Feed while baby’s upright.
6. Check your latch.
7. Try to reduce baby’s crying.
8. Consider over-the-counter remedies.

What foods should I avoid while breastfeeding a baby gassy?

If you notice that each time you eat something your baby becomes fussy, try avoiding the food for a while and see what happens. Many mothers have reported foods such as kale, spinach, beans, onions, garlic, peppers or spicy foods cause infant gas, while many babies tolerate these foods just fine.

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.

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.

How do you lay a gassy baby down?

Many parents wonder about the best sleeping position for a gassy baby. You may have heard that side sleeping (particularly on the left side) is better for releasing gas. However, safe-sleep guidance calls for babies to be placed to sleep on their backs until the baby’s first birthday.

Does gripe water help with gas?

Gripe water is an over-the-counter remedy that claims to relieve symptoms of colic, gas and fussiness in babies. Because it’s an herbal remedy and not a medicine or food, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) doesn’t regulate gripe water. That means it hasn’t been evaluated to be safe or effective.

How do you get rid of trapped gas in babies?

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.