Infant gas and colic present common challenges for new parents, often leading to significant distress for both the baby and the family. Babies experiencing these issues may exhibit prolonged crying spells, fussiness, and discomfort. Many parents actively seek effective solutions to alleviate these symptoms, and probiotics have emerged as a frequently discussed option.
Understanding Infant Gas and Colic
Infant gas is a common occurrence, often stemming from a baby’s still-developing digestive system. Babies may swallow air during feeding or crying, which can lead to gas buildup in their gastrointestinal tract. Symptoms of gas can include fussiness, squirming, pulling legs up towards the belly, and an appearance of discomfort.
Colic is characterized by frequent, prolonged, and intense crying in an otherwise healthy infant. It is defined by crying lasting more than three hours a day, for more than three days a week, over at least three weeks. Babies with colic often cry inconsolably, sometimes accompanied by a reddening face, a tight belly, and the passage of gas. While the exact cause of colic is not fully understood, theories include an immature digestive system, sensitivities to certain foods in the mother’s diet if breastfeeding, or an overreaction to normal sensations of fullness or gas. Colic typically begins within the first few weeks of life, often peaking around six to eight weeks, and usually resolves on its own by three to six months of age.
Probiotics Explained
Probiotics are beneficial live microorganisms, often bacteria and yeasts, that contribute positively to the body’s health, particularly in the gut. These “good” microbes work to maintain a balanced gut microbiome, the gut’s diverse community of microorganisms. A healthy gut microbiome aids in various bodily functions, including digestion and nutrient absorption.
These microorganisms help in breaking down certain complex carbohydrates and dietary fibers that the human body cannot digest on its own. They also play a role in synthesizing certain vitamins, like B vitamins and vitamin K. By helping to maintain a balanced environment, probiotics can support overall digestive wellness and may help manage issues like occasional constipation or diarrhea. Probiotics can be found naturally in fermented foods such as yogurt, or they can be taken as dietary supplements.
The Science Behind Probiotics for Infant Gas
Among the most studied strains is Lactobacillus reuteri DSM 17938, which has shown promise in reducing crying time in exclusively breastfed infants with colic. Studies have indicated that daily administration of this strain can lead to a significant decrease in crying duration, sometimes by about an hour less per day, with improvements noted within a few weeks.
The mechanisms by which probiotics might help are thought to involve several factors. These include influencing gut motility, which is the movement of food through the digestive tract, and reducing the presence of gas-producing bacteria, such as certain Escherichia coli strains. Probiotics may also modulate the infant’s immune response and reduce intestinal inflammation, indicated by markers like fecal calprotectin. While Lactobacillus reuteri DSM 17938 is the most researched, other strains like Bifidobacterium infantis EVC001, Bifidobacterium breve, Lactobacillus rhamnosus GG, Bifidobacterium longum subsp. longum, and Pediococcus pentosaceus are also being investigated for their effects on infant digestive comfort. It is important to acknowledge that while some research is promising, particularly for specific strains in breastfed infants, findings can vary, and more extensive studies are ongoing, especially concerning formula-fed infants.
Safety and Practical Advice
Generally, probiotics are considered safe for healthy, full-term infants, with few reported adverse effects. However, it is important to be cautious, particularly for premature infants or those with compromised immune systems, as there may be a small risk of infection in such vulnerable populations. Mild and temporary side effects, such as increased gas, bloating, or changes in bowel movements, can sometimes occur as the baby’s digestive system adjusts.
Consulting a pediatrician before introducing any new supplement to an infant, including probiotics, is important. A healthcare provider can assess the baby’s specific health needs, rule out any underlying medical conditions that might be causing the gas or colic, and offer tailored recommendations. Probiotics are not a universal cure for all infant digestive issues, and a pediatrician’s guidance ensures that parents make informed decisions for their child’s well-being.
Probiotics for babies are typically available in liquid drops or powder form, which can be mixed with lukewarm breast milk or formula, or administered directly into the baby’s mouth. It is important to avoid mixing probiotics with hot liquids, as heat can destroy the live microorganisms. Dosages often range from 1 to 10 billion Colony-Forming Units (CFUs) daily, with specific product instructions usually recommending around 5 to 6 drops.
Selecting a product designed specifically for infants is important, ensuring it contains clinically studied strains that have shown benefits for babies, such as Lactobacillus reuteri DSM 17938 or Bifidobacterium lactis. Parents should look for products that undergo third-party testing, which verifies the quality, purity, and stated concentration of the probiotic strains. Checking labels for the specific strains, CFU count, and the absence of unnecessary additives or allergens can help ensure a suitable and safe choice for the infant.