Ways to Ease Baby's Gas
9 Easy Ways to Say So Long to Baby's Gas
As POPSUGAR editors, we independently select and write about stuff we love and think you'll like too. If you buy a product we have recommended, we may receive affiliate commission, which in turn supports our work.
Gas. Everyone deals with it during the day, including your baby. But unlike adults, infants have a harder time letting the air out. As a result, they have to deal with bloating, cramps, and plain discomfort. Luckily, there are a few things parents can do to make the pain go away and even prevent it from happening in the future. Check out these simple solutions for easing your baby's tummy troubles.
Source: Shutterstock
1 Burp Them Often
Don't wait till the end of the meal to let a little air out. When your baby's eating starts to slow down, take a minute or two to burp them. This way, they are able to let out some of the built-up gas.
Source: Flickr user nateOne
2 Get Them Moving
Lay your baby on their back, and move their legs in and out, as if they're riding a bicycle. The motion breaks up any air pockets that can be causing discomfort.
Source: Flickr user quinnanya
3 Serve Them Some Gripe Water
This traditional remedy uses ingredients like ginger and chamomile to relieve babies of their tummy troubles. You can buy it at the store ($8) or make your own.
4 Try a Warm Towel
All the built-up gas can cause cramps, which will make your baby even more uncomfortable. To loosen the stomach muscles and let the gas out, place a warm towel over their belly.
Source: Flickr user santheo
5 Squeeze In Some Tummy Time
Once your child is old enough, make sure they spend a decent amount of time on their stomach. This daily practice actually aids in your child's digestion and prevents any potential discomfort.
Source: Flickr user bigpresh
6 Give Them a Tiny Massage
Rubbing your baby's tummy loosens up the muscles and opens air pockets — both of which can cause discomfort.
Source: Flickr user brapps
7 Get a Little Help
Don't be intimidated by the Windi ($15 for 10). This easy-to-use device loosens tight muscles, allowing gas to move through your child's system. You'll know it's working when you hear a whistle.
8 Take Away the Pacifier
Giving your child a pacifier every time they cry could do some digestive harm, as the constant sucking actually causes gas to build. Try to limit your tot's pacifier use to when they really need it.
Source: Flickr user nicholasjon
9 Change the Way You Feed
A little change during mealtime can make a huge difference. If you are breastfeeding your child, make sure they are properly latching on to the nipple to avoid sucking excess air. For those bottle-feeding their babies, try switching to a bottle that has a slow-flow nipple. And, as always, make sure your child is positioned at an incline to help their digestive track flow.
Source: Flickr user lara604
