Colic is a common digestive problem, affecting 20 percent of infants, particularly firstborn males. Usually colic resolves at four to six months old. Probiotics are the "good" or healthy bacteria that normally populate the digestive tract. One of the reasons why probiotics have been researched for baby colic is because intestinal flora may play a role in the development of colic. If you consider using probiotics for you or your baby to help relieve colic, you should first talk to your health care professional.
About Probiotics
Probiotics are found in such foods as some yogurts, miso and tempeh and also as supplements. Based on preliminary studies, supplementation with probiotics may help restore the healthy balance of intestinal flora, enhance the immune system, prevent diarrhea, reduce lactose intolerance and reduce the risk of allergies and eczema. The most commonly-used probiotic is Lactobacillus acidophilus. Other probiotics found in over-the-counter supplements are: Lactobacillus bulgaricus, Lactobacillus casei, Lactobacillus reuteri, Lactobacillus GG, Bifidobacterium longum and bifidum.
Probiotics are generally considered safe and well-tolerated supplements when taken at recommended dosages. Special formula for infants and children are available in North America. Use probiotics cautiously and only under medical supervision if your baby has a weak immune system.
Research
The probiotic Lactobacillus reuteri appears to be beneficial for managing baby colic, reports a research team from Regina Margherita Children Hospital, Italy, in a study that appeared in the September 2010 issue of "Current Opinion In Pediatrics." The authors further indicate that probiotics help improve gut motility and pain perception.
Both the baby experiencing colic and the breastfeeding mother can use Acidophilus Bifidus, suggests University of Maryland Medical Center. The baby should be given special probiotic formula for infants at the direction of a health care provider.
Breastfeeding Recommendations
If you are breastfeeding, it may help if you eliminate coffee, dairy and soy products, cabbage, cauliflower and spicy foods. You can take 1 capsule with up to 10 billion colony-forming units or CFU per capsule three times daily, indicates the University of Maryland Medical Center.
Considerations
Consult a qualified health care professional to learn more about optimal dosage and other herbs or homeopathic remedies that may improve your baby's symptoms. Keep in mind that probiotic therapy does not replace and should not be used to replace any conventional medication prescribed for your baby.
