If your baby is vomiting, has diarrhea or seems to have a stomach ache, you may not know exactly what's causing the problem. Get in touch with his doctor to make sure that the root of the upset stomach doesn't require medical intervention. If you're just dealing with a self-resolving stomach bug, temporarily adjusting your baby's diet will help alleviate his discomfort as he heals.
Breastfeeding and Formula
Unless your pediatrician recommends otherwise, continue feeding your baby breastmilk or formula as normal. Breastmilk contains electrolytes and fluids that will help prevent dehydration if your baby has diarrhea or is vomiting. If your baby normally takes formula, your pediatrician may recommend that you temporarily switch to a formula that is lactose-free until your baby's stomach is more settled, according to the American Academy of Family Physicians
Oral Rehydration Solution
An oral rehydration solution may be necessary if your baby still acts thirsty after or between nursing or feeding sessions. If your baby consumes formula and seems particularly dehydrated, your pediatrician may recommend that you switch from formula to an oral rehydration solution for up to one day to ensure that your baby takes in the right amount of electrolytes. Although sports drinks contain electrolytes, your doctor will likely recommend that you avoid those and use an over-the-counter electrolyte solution formulated for infants. If your baby is actively vomiting, you should generally wait for the vomiting to stop for at least 30 minutes. Then, offer her only about 2 to 3 tsp. of it at a time every 15 to 20 minutes to make sure she can keep it down, according to the Kids Health website. If it stays down for more than about two hours, ask your pediatrician if you should offer her more.
Tea and Gripe Water
Weak herbal teas such as fennel, anise, chamomile and peppermint tea may help soothe your baby's stomach, according to the Baby Center website. If you breastfeed, you may even find that drinking the tea yourself can help reduce your baby's stomach discomfort. However, consult your pediatrician -- and maybe an herbalist as well -- before you use that as your baby's primary remedy. Gripe water, a preparation made from sodium bicarbonate and herbs, is also a popular home remedy for babies who frequently get stomach aches.
Solids
If your baby has transitioned to solids, your pediatrician will likely recommend that you continue to feed them your baby as usual unless your baby is actively vomiting. The nutrients your baby gets from cereals, yogurt, fresh fruit and vegetables may even help fight off a stomach infection, according to Baby Center. If your has been been having diarrhea and it worsens after he eats, you may want to temporarily stick with bland foods such as bananas, rice and applesauce. Still, your baby may temporarily refuse to eat if he has a stomach ache. As long as you continue to keep him hydrated, he should return to his normal eating habits when his body feels ready.
