Gassiness in babies is a common occurrence. Most babies become gassy from time to time, while others experience bouts of gas more frequently. Although it does not usually require medical attention, gas build-up in a baby's stomach can cause increasing discomfort, irritability and abdominal pain. There are several common causes of infant gas, which can be easily remedied and prevented.
Reduce Air Swallowing
Swallowing air can cause infant gas. Nursing babies sometimes swallow air due to poor suction. Adults should help infants latch on properly to prevent this. Bottles with the wrong size nipple can also contribute to air swallowing. During feeds, a parent should position the bottle nipple at a 45-degree angle. According to MotherNature.com, whether bottle or breastfeeding, babies should be burped every few minutes. Excessive crying also causes the swallowing of air; therefore, babies should be fed on time to avoid crying.
Avoid Allergenic Foods
Common food allergies including soy, wheat, corn, eggs, peanuts and cow milk protein can promote gas productions in babies, reports DrGreene.com. Babies with a family history of food allergies are highly susceptible to excessive gas. In addition, cow's milk protein transmitted through breast feeding and other dairy products can cause allergy symptoms, including gas, in babies. Parents and caregivers should try to limit or eliminate allergenic foods to reduce gas production.
Other Gas Remedies
Parents should also avoid feeding their babies foods that generate gas. According to ColicCalm.com, gas is a common occurrence in babies starting a solid food diet. Gas-producing foods include beans, cabbage, cauliflower, bran and other fiber-rich foods. Massaging a baby around her tummy area can help to relieve gas and promote healthy digestive activity. Placing baby on her back and gently bending her knees and maneuvering her legs in various ways may contribute to pushing gas bubbles out of the stomach and intestines.
