Skip to content

How to Help a Newborn with Gas

Published on Oct 04, 2022

Primary Care Locations

Gas. It’s a topic most people avoid thinking about until they have a newborn. Then, suddenly, baby burps and farts become a huge source of parental distress.

Why is my newborn so gassy?

Got a gassy newborn? You’re not alone. According to Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia (CHOP) Pediatricians, Julie Kardos, MD , and Naline Lai, MD , all babies are gassy in their first two months of life. Yes, all.

Having just spent nine months as fetuses developing in fluid, newborns have no experience with air until they take their first breath. Then, if they swallow some air when they cry or feed, eventually, some of the air comes up as a burp. 

Gas expelled from below (farts) comes from a different source. As babies drink formula or breast milk, farts in the first few days can be a good sign that their guts are waking up. As time goes on, some liquid in the intestines may remain undigested, and the normal gut bacteria “eat” the food. The bacteria produce gas as a byproduct of their eating. Thus: A fart is produced.

Either way, the gas wants desperately to escape, but young babies are not very good at getting it out and they are not accustomed to the sensation. So, newborns ball up, grunt, turn red, wake up from a sound sleep, or scream until they eventually produce thunderous burps and farts.

Gas is part of life

If your infant is feeding well, gaining weight adequately, passing soft mushy stools that are green, yellow or brown (but NOT bloody, white or black), then the grunting, straining, turning red, and crying with gas is harmless and does not imply that your baby has a belly problem or a milk or formula intolerance. As reassuring as that may be, Dr. Kardos and Dr. Lai acknowledge how difficult it is to see your infant appear uncomfortable.

How to help infants with gas

Try these tips if your young baby is bothered by gas:

  • Start feedings before your infant cries a long time from hunger.  When infants cry from hunger, they swallow air. When a frantically hungry baby starts to feed, they will gulp quickly and swallow more air than usual. If your infant is wide awake crying and it’s been at least one or two hours from the last feeding, try to start another feeding.
  • Burp after your infant is done feeding.  If you are breastfeeding, hold your child upright before switching breasts to give them a chance to burp. Avoid interrupting a feed to check for a burp. Your baby will make a switch from vigorous nutritive sucking to comfort sucking/pull off when they need to burp. When bottle feeding, hold your infant upright for a few minutes after feedings to allow for extra burps. You can also experiment with different nipples and bottle shapes (different ones work better for different babies) to see which one allows your infant to feed without gulping too quickly and without sputtering. If a burp seems stuck, lay your child down for a minute and then bring them upright and try again.
  • Pay attention to positioning.  Unlike you, a baby cannot change position easily and may need a little help moving the gas out of their system. Some positioning tips: Feed your baby as upright as possible; lay your child on their back and pedal their legs with your hands to help expel gas from below; if your child is awake after a feeding, place them on their belly.
  • Increase tummy time.  Give your child plenty of tummy time throughout the day while they are awake.

Common gas questions & answers

As CHOP Primary Care Pediatricians, Dr. Kardos and Dr. Lai have fielded many gas inquiries from parents of newborns. Below are some common questions they get asked and their insights on each.

Q: Will changing a breastfeeding mother’s diet or trying formula changes help decrease a baby’s discomfort from gas?

A: There is no absolute correlation between a certain food in the maternal diet and the production of gas in a baby. However, a nursing mom may find a particular food “gas inducing.” Be careful about avoiding too many foods, a nursing mom needs nutrients from a variety of sources to make healthy breast milk. If you are bottle feeding, try a formula change for a week at a time; if there is no effect on your baby’s gas, go back to the original formula.

Q: Do gas drops help? (And are they safe?)

A: For farting, if you find that the standard FDA-approved simethicone drops help, then you can use them as the label specifies. If they do not help, stop using them.

Q: Do probiotics help?

A: Unfortunately, there is not a lot of data about using probiotics to treat gas in infants. Probiotics may help other pediatric conditions such as the duration of acute diarrhea, and while deemed mostly harmless in otherwise healthy infants, they have not been shown to affect gas.

There’s good news

This piece ends as it began: with reassurance. The discomfort from gas will pass. Gas discomfort from burps and farts typically peaks at six weeks and improves immensely by 3 months of age. At that point, even the fussiest babies tend to settle.

Contributed by: Julie Kardos, MD, FAAP , Naline Lai, MD, FAAP

Stay in Touch

Are you looking for advice to keep your child healthy and happy? Do you have questions about common childhood illnesses and injuries? Subscribe to our Health Tips newsletter to receive health and wellness tips from the pediatric experts at Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, straight to your inbox. Read some recent tips .

Mother and daughter talking

With our patient portal you can schedule appointments, access records, see test results, ask your care provider questions, and more.

Boy getting height measured

Subscribe to Health Tips

Subscribe to our Health Tips enewsletter to receive health and wellness tips from the pediatric experts at CHOP.

You Might Also Like

infant with colic crying

Soothing a Baby with Colic

Learn the best ways to soothe a baby with colic, while you stay calm yourself.

Baby Climbing Steps

The Scoop on Infant Poop

Pediatrician Joseph Gwiszcz, MD, FAAP, has the scoop on baby poop for new parents.

Mother holding young child

The Inside Scoop on Croup

Croup is a common childhood condition that can cause some worrisome symptoms. Get tips for treating croup at home and signs you should seek medical care.

  • PRO Courses Guides New Tech Help Pro Expert Videos About wikiHow Pro Upgrade Sign In
  • EDIT Edit this Article
  • EXPLORE Tech Help Pro About Us Random Article Quizzes Request a New Article Community Dashboard This Or That Game Popular Categories Arts and Entertainment Artwork Books Movies Computers and Electronics Computers Phone Skills Technology Hacks Health Men's Health Mental Health Women's Health Relationships Dating Love Relationship Issues Hobbies and Crafts Crafts Drawing Games Education & Communication Communication Skills Personal Development Studying Personal Care and Style Fashion Hair Care Personal Hygiene Youth Personal Care School Stuff Dating All Categories Arts and Entertainment Finance and Business Home and Garden Relationship Quizzes Cars & Other Vehicles Food and Entertaining Personal Care and Style Sports and Fitness Computers and Electronics Health Pets and Animals Travel Education & Communication Hobbies and Crafts Philosophy and Religion Work World Family Life Holidays and Traditions Relationships Youth
  • Browse Articles
  • Learn Something New
  • Quizzes Hot
  • This Or That Game New
  • Train Your Brain
  • Explore More
  • Support wikiHow
  • About wikiHow
  • Log in / Sign up
  • Family Life
  • Babies and Infants
  • Baby Health

How to Help Relieve Gas in Babies

Last Updated: November 27, 2023 References

This article was co-authored by Laura Marusinec, MD . Dr. Marusinec is a board certified Pediatrician at the Children's Hospital of Wisconsin, where she is on the Clinical Practice Council. She received her M.D. from the Medical College of Wisconsin School of Medicine in 1995 and completed her residency at the Medical College of Wisconsin in Pediatrics in 1998. She is a member of the American Medical Writers Association and the Society for Pediatric Urgent Care. There are 10 references cited in this article, which can be found at the bottom of the page. This article has been viewed 163,938 times.

Gas pain is a very common in babies and it can cause your baby—and you—discomfort. [1] X Research source Gas is often caused by swallowing air when crying or feeding or from the digestion process. [2] X Research source Even though gas can cause pain for your baby, it is generally harmless. By promoting the release of gas and preventing it, you can help relieve your baby’s gas.

Releasing Baby’s Gas

Step 1 Recognize the symptoms of gas.

  • Pulling up her legs
  • Clenching her fists
  • Squirming around as if she’s uncomfortable
  • Crying a lot
  • Burping [4] X Research source

Step 2 Do the bicycle with baby.

  • Move your baby’s legs gently so you don’t hurt her.
  • Talk to your baby while you’re moving her legs. This may distract her from her pain and also comfort her.

Step 3 Give her some tummy time.

  • Make sure your baby is awake during tummy time and that you supervise her the entire time. [7] X Trustworthy Source Mayo Clinic Educational website from one of the world's leading hospitals Go to source
  • Put your baby on her tummy on the floor or across your lap for at least 20 minutes a day. [8] X Trustworthy Source Mayo Clinic Educational website from one of the world's leading hospitals Go to source You can do this more often if she is gassy and not fussy during tummy time.

Step 4 Massage baby’s belly.

  • Rub your baby’s belly in a clockwise motion while she is lying on her back. [10] X Research source
  • Try a combination of massaging and bicycling to move and expel gas.

Step 5 Swaddle your baby.

  • Avoid swaddling if your baby can roll to minimize the risk of SIDS or suffocation. [13] X Trustworthy Source HealthyChildren.org Health information from the American Academy of Pediatrics. Go to source
  • Follow guidelines for safely swaddling your infant, which may help relieve her gas and help her sleep. [14] X Trustworthy Source HealthyChildren.org Health information from the American Academy of Pediatrics. Go to source

Step 6 Rock, bounce, and hold your baby.

  • Use the “gas hold” by holding your baby securely over your arm facing down. You can gently rock her in this position. [16] X Research source
  • Rock your baby in a rocker or in your arms, which may move and expel gas. [17] X Research source
  • Bounce your baby gently up and down. You can do this either while you’re standing or by sitting your baby on your lap and bouncing her. [18] X Research source

Step 7 Burst the bubbles with medication.

  • Look for anti-gas products with simethicone such as Mylicon, Little Tummies, or Phazyme. [21] X Trustworthy Source HealthyChildren.org Health information from the American Academy of Pediatrics. Go to source
  • Follow packaging instructions.
  • Ask your pediatrician or pharmacist any questions you may have about the drops or using them.

Step 8 Consider probiotics.

  • Speak with your baby’s doctor before using probiotics for gas. Ask the doctor if probiotics could help your baby. [24] X Trustworthy Source Mayo Clinic Educational website from one of the world's leading hospitals Go to source
  • Look for products with Lactobacillus reuteri, which studies have shown can significantly reduce colic and may help your baby swallow less gas-causing air. [25] X Trustworthy Source Mayo Clinic Educational website from one of the world's leading hospitals Go to source

Step 9 See your doctor.

  • Tell your doctor what you’ve done to relieve the gas and if it is effective. Give the doctor any helpful information about your baby-- from eating to pooping habits.

Preventing Gas

Step 1 Soothe your baby if she is crying.

  • You can also try to determine the reason why your baby is crying. For example, you baby might be crying because she is hungry, so feeding a little earlier than usual may help. [26] X Research source

Step 2 Feed effectively with a bottle.

  • Feed your baby more often but decrease how much you give her so that there is less pressure in her belly. [29] X Research source
  • Try out different sizes and types of bottles and nipples. Different models can slow the flow of liquid and the amount of air into her belly. [30] X Trustworthy Source HealthyChildren.org Health information from the American Academy of Pediatrics. Go to source
  • Tilt the bottle to a 30 or 40 degree angle so that the air rises to the bottom of the bottle. [31] X Research source
  • Make sure your baby’s lip are on the wide base of the nipple and not just the tip. [32] X Research source
  • Try a different type of formula after consulting with your doctor. [33] X Trustworthy Source HealthyChildren.org Health information from the American Academy of Pediatrics. Go to source
  • Allow the formula to settle after shaking or mixing it, or use a ready-to-feed formula. [34] X Trustworthy Source HealthyChildren.org Health information from the American Academy of Pediatrics. Go to source

Step 3 Optimize your nursing experience.

  • Nurse your baby more frequently during the day to reduce the amount she has in her belly. [35] X Research source
  • Make sure your baby’s lips are sealed far back on your areola. [36] X Research source
  • See what causes your baby’s gas by eliminating certain foods for two weeks. Common problem foods include broccoli, brussels sprouts, beans, cauliflower, cabbage, and onions. [37] X Research source Add food back in as you realize it doesn’t cause gas. [38] X Trustworthy Source HealthyChildren.org Health information from the American Academy of Pediatrics. Go to source For example, cut out foods most likely to cause allergies like dairy, peanuts, tree nuts, soy, wheat and fish. [39] X Trustworthy Source Mayo Clinic Educational website from one of the world's leading hospitals Go to source

Step 4 Hold your baby upright during—and after-- feedings.

  • Hold your baby at a 45 degree angle if possible. [42] X Trustworthy Source Mayo Clinic Educational website from one of the world's leading hospitals Go to source

Step 5 Burp your baby frequently.

  • Place your baby upright on your shoulder and pat her back.
  • Sit her upright on your lap and lean her forward slightly while you rub or pat her back. Put your hand under her chin to support her chest and head.
  • Lay your baby on her belly across your lap with her head slightly elevated while you rub and pat her back. [45] X Trustworthy Source HealthyChildren.org Health information from the American Academy of Pediatrics. Go to source

Step 6 Discourage extensive sucking.

Video . By using this service, some information may be shared with YouTube.

Expert Q&A

You might also like.

Relieve Gas

  • ↑ http://www.thebump.com/a/gas-pain-baby
  • ↑ http://www.parents.com/baby/care/gas/best-remedies-for-gas-reflux/
  • ↑ http://americanpregnancy.org/first-year-of-life/colic/
  • ↑ https://www.healthychildren.org/English/ages-stages/baby/diapers-clothing/Pages/Breaking-Up-Gas.aspx
  • ↑ http://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/infant-and-toddler-health/expert-answers/tummy-time/faq-20057755
  • ↑ https://www.healthychildren.org/English/ages-stages/baby/diapers-clothing/Pages/Swaddling-Is-it-Safe.aspx
  • ↑ http://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/colic/basics/treatment/con-20019091
  • ↑ http://www.healthline.com/health/gerd/infants-treatment#Feeding2
  • ↑ https://www.askdrsears.com/topics/health-concerns/fussy-baby/comforting-gassy-baby
  • ↑ http://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/colic/basics/lifestyle-home-remedies/con-20019091

About This Article

Laura Marusinec, MD

  • Send fan mail to authors

Did this article help you?

Am I a Narcissist or an Empath Quiz

Featured Articles

How to Comfort Someone Physically

Trending Articles

Everything You Need to Know to Rock the Corporate Goth Aesthetic

Watch Articles

Cook Fresh Cauliflower

  • Terms of Use
  • Privacy Policy
  • Do Not Sell or Share My Info
  • Not Selling Info

wikiHow Tech Help Pro:

Develop the tech skills you need for work and life

Have a Gassy Baby? What to Know About Infant Gas Symptoms, Remedies and Causes

Medical review policy, latest update:.

Medically reviewed to ensure accuracy.

Why is my baby so gassy?

Gassy baby signs and symptoms, gassy baby causes, what are the best remedies for baby gas relief, burp your baby twice, control the air, feed your baby before meltdowns, try the colic carry, offer infant gas drops, do baby bicycles, encourage tummy time , give your baby a rub-down, check your diet if you're breastfeeding, test new formulas, talk to your doctor about chamomile tea, try baby gripe water, consider probiotics, what infant gas drops are safe and effective, can breastfeeding make a baby gassy, what's the best formula for a gassy baby, how can i tell the difference between regular infant gas and colic, when to call the doctor for a gassy baby.

If your baby is gassy but gaining weight and peeing and  pooping normally for his age , everything is probably going exactly as expected, and you'll likely just need to wait it out. Baby gas does pass — pun intended!

Frequently Asked Questions

What causes a gassy baby, how can i tell if my baby is gassy, how can i relieve my baby's gas, how can i prevent gas in my baby, can gas drops or other remedies for gas be harmful to my baby, updates history, go to your baby's age, trending on what to expect, the covid-19 vaccine for infants, toddlers and young children, how to create a night shift system when you have a newborn, ⚠️ you can't see this cool content because you have ad block enabled., when do babies start laughing, baby-led weaning, what happens in the ‘4th trimester’ (and is it a real thing), read this next.

Gassy Baby: All About Helping Your Baby With Gas

gassy baby

If you haven’t experienced the world of infant gas, you’re in for a wild (and sometimes smelly) ride! But it’s important to know that having a gassy baby is normal, especially during the newborn stage when the digestive system is still maturing. Sometimes, though, your little one’s grunts, grimaces, and cries might worry you, and so you may wonder how to help your baby with gas. Read on to learn more about gassy newborns, what causes an excess of gas, and how to relieve baby gas.

What Causes Gas in Babies?

Starting with the first feeding , babies shift from obtaining nutrients from the placenta to drinking and digesting breast milk or formula. That’s a big adjustment for a small digestive system that’s still developing, and it’s a chief reason that gas naturally occurs in infants. Overall, it takes time for your little one’s gastrointestinal tract to fully develop and build a microbiome (the mix of tiny organisms in the body, including healthy gut bacteria). And when a still-developing digestive system is challenged by too much air being swallowed, as often happens during a feeding, you’re even more likely to have a gassy baby.

Baby Gas Symptoms

You might notice that you have a gassy baby when you smell something or hear something, but there are other possible signs and symptoms of baby gas, too, including:

Spitting up. It’s very common for babies to spit up after feedings. This is typically caused by swallowing too much air in the process, which leads to gas. Spit-up is good, though, as it gets the air out before moving to the stomach and digestive tract.

Crying. Gas is just as uncomfortable for babies as it is for adults. The discomfort may cause your newborn to cry or be “fussy.”

Drawing legs up. If your baby moves their legs up toward the belly, it could be a sign of abdominal pain caused by gas. Your little one is trying to relieve the discomfort with this motion.

Reduced appetite. Another common symptom of baby gas is a reduced appetite. A gassy baby may suffer from cramping or bloating, followed by diarrhea. This discomfort could affect their appetite.

Why Is My Baby So Gassy?

There’s no reason to be embarrassed by this question—you’re not the only parent asking! Excess infant gas can result from several different factors, especially if you notice your baby crying or screaming in pain from gas.

Food sensitivities or allergies. It’s not uncommon for newborns to have food sensitivities that cause infant gas. A gassy breastfed baby is more susceptible to these sensitivities, which typically come from the mother’s diet. True food allergies are less common and will most likely cause other problems, such as hives or wheezing, so you’ll want to consult your child’s healthcare provider ASAP.

Lactose intolerance. Most experts recommend baby formula produced with cow’s milk for its nutritional value. But if you use this type of formula and your baby is lactose intolerant, you may notice more gas, loose stools, nausea, and vomiting.

Overeating due to breast milk oversupply or breast engorgement. If you’re breastfeeding and experience breast engorgement or an oversupply of breast milk, a gassy baby may be inevitable. Your newborn may instinctively gulp milk quickly, causing more air to make its way into their tummy. Later on, this air can form gas bubbles.

How to Relieve Baby Gas

So, what helps babies with gas? There are plenty of effective strategies and home remedies to help your newborn baby with gas problems. The trick is to break up the gas bubbles that have formed in the abdomen and digestive tract. The following strategies and remedies may help.

1. Burp During and After Feedings

Because gas bubbles tend to form from the air that sneaks in during feeding, burping is your friend. It releases air that can turn into gas bubbles in the tummy. Although it’s standard practice to burp your baby after feeding them if they suffer from gas, you can try burping during feeding as well. This can help provide your baby some gas relief, especially at night when feeding before bed.

2. Encourage Slow Eating

If your baby eats too fast, they tend to swallow more air and develop more gas bubbles. You can encourage slower eating by using a bottle with a slow-flow nipple. If you’re breastfeeding and experiencing an oversupply of breast milk, speak to your healthcare provider or a lactation consultant .

3. Use the Right Bottle

Slow-flow nipples are a game-changer, but so are slow-flow, vented, angled, or collapsible baby bottles . Professionals designed these varieties to limit the amount of air your baby swallows while eating.

4. Identify Food Sensitivities

If your little one appears particularly uncomfortable after being breastfed, they could be sensitive to the foods you’re eating. You can try to identify these foods and eliminate them from your diet for at least one week to see if it helps your gassy baby. Some common foods that may cause gas in breastfed babies include those with caffeine ], plus dairy products, onions, cabbage, and spicy foods.

5. Change Formula

Determining the best formula for gassy babies depends on individual factors. To start, most experts will recommend formulas with a cow’s-milk base. But as mentioned above, your little one might have a milk allergy or lactose intolerance. In that case, a soy-based formula fortified with iron, or a hypoallergenic formula, might be a better choice. If you’re considering swapping formulas, it’s best to consult your child’s healthcare provider. A gassy baby might not need to change to a different formula, but the provider will be able to address the problem and help you successfully switch if needed.

6. Position Your Baby for Gas Relief

There are a few positions that can help your baby with gas by supporting the stomach and digestive system.

Left side. Gently roll your baby onto the left side while holding them in your arms. You may want to rub their back to help keep them calm.

On the back. Place your baby on the back while moving their legs as if they were cycling. Lying on the back is also the best sleeping position for a gassy baby (and the best and safest sleeping position for all infants until their first birthday).

On the tummy. Tummy time has lots of benefits, among them being that it may help aid digestion. A little pressure on the abdomen may keep things moving and help break up those gas bubbles. Watch the video below to pick up some tips on tummy time sessions, and remember to supervise your baby during tummy time.

7. Try Baby Gas Drops

In searching for how to help a baby with gas, some parents choose to try baby gas drops. Gas medicine for babies doesn’t always work, but it could be worth a try if other remedies don’t provide any relief. Baby gas drops typically use simethicone, which causes an antifoaming effect to relieve bloating and pain caused by gas. It’s generally thought to be safe for babies, but make sure you read the label and instructions so you know how much to give your baby. Always consult your child’s healthcare provider before giving your newborn or young baby any medicine, even over-the-counter varieties.

Gassy Baby or Colic?

Your baby’s primary way of communication is crying, and since gas can result in crying or fussiness, it’s often mistaken for colic . Colic is a little different, though. Colic occurs when healthy babies cry repeatedly, intensely, and for prolonged periods of time, often at the same time each day. If the culprit is gas, you’ll be able to find some relief; babies with colic usually cry for no apparent reason and can’t always be soothed. However, there is some overlap between a baby with colic and a gassy baby. Contributing factors for both conditions may include

an underdeveloped digestive system

imbalance of bacteria in the gut (microbiome)

food allergies or sensitivities

overfeeding

not burping enough.

There are still many unknowns about colic, but it’s common for babies to grow out of it or the symptoms to lessen by 4 months . Still, every baby is different, and your child’s healthcare provider can help you better understand the condition and offer advice on how to help your baby with gas or colic.

The Bottom Line

Yes, a gassy baby is normal, but of course, you may still want to know how to help your baby with gas. Chances are, the problem is just temporary as your newborn develops a strong digestive system and gets used to a new diet of breast milk or formula. Use the information above to understand how to relieve baby gas. If the gas is intense or causing your baby pain, talk to your child’s healthcare provider. Your little one may have a food allergy or simply need a different type of formula. Just remember that babies cry to communicate and that you’re doing a great job! Gas is normal, cries are normal, and your child’s healthcare provider is there to help when needed. Read more about how your baby develops in their first few months or take our quiz below to discover your baby’s temperament.

How We Wrote This Article The information in this article is based on the expert advice found in trusted medical and government sources, such as the American Academy of Pediatrics and the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists. You can find a full list of sources used for this article below. The content on this page should not replace professional medical advice. Always consult medical professionals for full diagnosis and treatment.

  • American Academy of Pediatrics. Caring for Your Baby and Young Child: Birth to Age 5, 7th ed. (New York: Bantam Books, 2019).
  • Healthy Children. “Breaking Up Gas.”
  • Healthy Children. “How to Calm a Fussy Baby.”
  • Healthy Children. “Lactose Intolerance in Infants and Children.”
  • Healthy Children. “Why Babies Spit Up.”
  • Kids Health. “Breastfeeding FAQs.”
  • Kids Health. “Communication and Your 1- to 3-Month-Old.”
  • Kids Health. “Formula Feeding FAQs.”
  • LLLI. “Feed the Baby—And the Microbes.”
  • Mayo Clinic. “Colic.”
  • MedlinePlus. “Abdominal Pain.”
  • MedlinePlus. “Changes in the Newborn at Birth.”
  • NIH. “Development of the Digestive System.”

Dr. Terri Major-Kincade is a double-board certified neonatologist and pediatrician. She is an Associate Professor of Pediatrics at UT Health, Houston, McGovern Medical School where she serves as the Medical Director for Pediatric Palliative Care at C...

Review this article:

Read more about baby.

  • Explore Baby Sleep
  • Parenting Life
  • Development

Join a World of Support

through Pregnancy and Parenthood.

toy

TRACK WITH TOOLS

baby

LEARN WITH EXPERTS

Gift

GET REWARDED

pampers club logo

Where You Already Belong

  • Search Please fill out this field.
  • Newsletters
  • Newborn Care

What to Know About Baby Gas and How to Treat It

Is your little one squirming, fussing, and generally uncomfortable? Whether you have a gassy newborn or older infant, the signs of gas in babies are easy to spot—if you know what you're looking for.

New parents are often surprised by the big noises that come out of a small baby. Newborns can be quite the audible orchestra, and gas is often part of the repertoire. "Gas is a normal part of the digestive process , but it's also involved in most intestinal complaints," says Jeremiah Levine, M.D., director of pediatric gastroenterology at NYU Langone Health. "Too much gas is usually a symptom that something else is going on." So what causes baby gas and what are the signs of a gassy newborn ?

Learn more about what causes babies to be gassy, how to know whether your baby's gas is normal or cause for concern, and how to help your little one cope with gas-related discomfort.

Why Is My Baby So Gassy?

Everyone, including your baby, produces and expels gas. As food moves through the gastrointestinal tract, the small intestine absorbs the usable nutrients. Bacteria in the large intestine break down the leftovers, releasing hydrogen and carbon dioxide and producing bubbles of gas in the process. Burping allows some gas to escape from the stomach early on, and the rest travels from the colon to the rectum, where it's ejected primarily via bowel movements or flatulence.

But when gas doesn't pass easily, it collects in the digestive tract and causes bloating and discomfort. Babies are especially prone to this. "Newborn digestive systems are immature, so they produce a lot of gas, and this is normal. Infants also take in a lot of air while feeding and crying, which produces more gas," says Samira Armin, M.D., a pediatrician at Texas Children's Pediatrics in Houston. Bottle-fed babies tend to have it the worst, but breastfeeding doesn't make a baby immune . Ultimately, it is common to have a gassy newborn.

The frequency of gas is generally not cause for concern, and a fussy baby might be perfectly normal. Unlike adults, babies pass gas with a little less decorum or restraint. "They may seem uncomfortable or just downright fussy when they've got gas that needs to come out," says Ari Brown, M.D., an Austin-based pediatrician and the author of Baby 411 . "But it's rare that a baby will actually have discomfort due to gas."

In other words, the work of expelling gas may look more uncomfortable than it really is for your baby. However, if your baby seems to be in pain, particularly if it doesn't end after the gas is released, it's time to consult their pediatrician.

Signs of a Gassy Baby

If you suspect that your fussy baby is genuinely uncomfortable, and they keep squirming and pulling up their legs, they might have some gas that refuses to pass. The best way to confirm your suspicions is to try some gas-relieving techniques such as burping them and/or moving their body into different positions.

"If your baby seems much better after passing gas, then that's a telltale sign that the problem was gas," says Jennifer Shu, M.D., an Atlanta-based pediatrician and co-author of Food Fights: Winning The Nutritional Challenges of Parenthood Armed with Insight, Humor, and A Bottle of Ketchup . This applies to gassy breastfed babies and gassy bottle-fed babies.

For some babies, even normal amounts of gas can cause abnormal discomfort. These babies may have an increased sensitivity to distension (the stretching of the intestines), says John Rosen, M.D., a pediatric gastroenterologist at Children's Mercy, in Kansas City, Missouri. Kids (and adults) experience sensations from intestinal pain fibers in different ways and have individual pain thresholds.

Common Causes of Gas In Babies

There are several reasons why you may have a gassy newborn or infant, including:

  • Swallowing too much air . This can happen while baby is feeding or crying.
  • Having an immature digestive system . Immature or underdeveloped digestive systems are unable to break down food. This causes it pass through too quickly, resulting in gas.
  • Hypersentivies . This can be formula or food, in baby's' diet or the nursing parents.

Gassy Newborn? How to Relieve Gas in Infants and Young Babies

If you have a gassy newborn (or even an older infant), there are several things you can do to help relieve their discomfort. Start by placing your baby on a flat surface, belly down. Lift them up slightly on their stomach and gently massage their belly , or place your baby on their back and "try moving their legs and hips around as if they were riding a bike," Dr. Brown says. Often these kinds of motions break up bubbles and give gas an extra push to work its way out. "You can also try a nice, warm bath to relieve the discomfort," Dr. Brown adds.

If you're still faced with an unhappy infant, you might want to consult your pediatrician about trying some gas drops or to see if a formula change or diet-modification for a breastfeeding parent is needed. "Some babies are said to respond well to over-the-counter anti-gas drops containing simethicone," Dr. Shu says. Another option is to consider what might be causing the excess gas—such as taking in too much air while feeding or eating gas-producing foods —and see if you can reduce the bubble intake from the get-go.

Gas Prevention Methods for Babies

Try these gas prevention methods if your baby is plagued by excess gas.

Bring on the burps

Feeding time can come with a lot of crying, gulping, guzzling, and suckling—in other words, a lot of swallowed air—which eventually manifests itself in the form of a burp or gas. "And while relief from a burp might be more immediate, air that turns into gas has a longer journey through the intestinal tract first," Dr. Shu says. Try being a little extra vigilant about burping your baby during and after a feeding to see if you can keep some of the gas at bay.

Check the flow

If the flow speed (either from the breast or bottle) is high, your baby may be gulping a lot of air along with their meal. When breastfeeding, you can alleviate this issue by pumping or hand expressing for a few minutes before nursing as flow tends to be fastest at letdown.

If bottle feeding, you can switch to a slower flow nipple to decrease the rate of flow. This allows your baby to drink at a less hurried pace, which should decrease the amount of air they take in as they swallow.

Monitor your latch

If you're breastfeeding, check your baby's latch to ensure they are taking in the areola and have good suction. An improper latch can lead to the baby continually coming off the breast and consequently ingesting more air as they struggle to attach properly.

Consult a lactation consultant if you are having issues with your latch (or any other breastfeeding problems). Slight adjustments in technique can often make a world of difference both for your comfort and that of your baby.

Adjust your bottle technique

Bottle-fed babies can ingest a lot of bubbles. To combat this, tilt the bottle at an angle that fills the entire nipple with milk. "Otherwise your baby will suck in air," Dr. Shu says. "More swallowed air means potentially more gas."

If you use powdered formula, let the bottle settle first before giving it to your baby. Shaking and mixing often causes the bottle to be piled high with bubbles on top of the actual formula. You may also consider using a ready-made formula for gassy newborns, as well as specially vented bottles that may reduce the number of bubbles.

Adjust the angle

"When feeding your baby, make sure their head is higher than their stomach," Dr. Shu advises. You want to hold your baby in a position that allows the liquid to slowly sink to the bottom of their stomach while the bubbles rise to the top. If you keep the bubbles closer to the surface, the natural—and easiest—means of exit is a burp. Trapped bubbles will likely pass in the form of gas.

Examine the menu

Foods that are harder for the body to digest are known to cause excess gas. These foods can include beans, onions, broccoli, cabbage, garlic, fried foods, and asparagus. If you're contending with a particularly fussy or constantly gassy baby , it might be worth taking a look at their diet—and yours, if you breastfeed. The gas-causing food you eat turns up in your breast milk, which might mean extra gas for your little one.

And if the introduction of solid foods has resulted in more gas, you'll want to take note of whether certain foods appear to bring on your baby's symptoms.

When to Visit the Pediatrician

As a parent, it's often best to trust your gut. If you have a concern or your child seems uncomfortable or in pain, check in with their pediatrician. Sometimes, other issues can be at play when a baby is gassy that merit evaluation and treatment.

Food allergies

When fussiness, squirming, and other gassy behaviors persist beyond your baby's first few months, it's reasonable to consider a possible food allergy or intolerance . The biggest clue: They're dealing with other significant health problems, too.

"A baby or child with a food allergy will also probably have skin rashes, vomiting, diarrhea, or blood in her stool, and they may not be gaining enough weight," says Jean Molleston, M.D., a pediatric gastroenterologist and professor of clinical pediatrics at Indiana University School of Medicine. Visit the doctor if you suspect this.

Celiac disease

Gas pain is also a symptom of celiac disease, a serious intolerance to gluten. Children aren't born with this autoimmune disorder, but it can develop at any point when something in their environment "turns on" the genes that cause it. Ask your doctor to test your child for celiac disease if they're also experiencing growth issues, abdominal discomfort, vomiting, chronic diarrhea, or constipation, or if celiac or any other autoimmune diseases run in your family.

Overabundant breast milk supply

Producing an overabundance of breast milk can create a strong letdown and/or flow that causes your baby to gulp in extra air as they suck. This can result in excess gas in their tummy . You can often remedy this situation by pumping or hand expressing for a few minutes before breastfeeding.

Typically, an overabundance settles down as your body gets in tune with how much breast milk your baby is consuming. If not, consult with a doctor or lactation consultant to help you manage your breast milk supply.

Lactose overload

Another issue that can cause gas in breastfed babies is lactose overload. This happens when there is a foremilk and hindmilk imbalance. Foremilk, which contains less fat and more lactose, is the first breast milk the baby gets each nursing session. Hindmilk, which comes after the foremilk is drained, contains higher levels of fat.

If your baby gets full from foremilk and doesn't drink enough hindmilk, they may get gassy from the excess lactose. Possible signs your baby is experiencing lactose overload include watery, foamy, or greenish poop (indicating their food is moving through their system too quickly to be fully digested), persistent diaper rash (from contact with acidic stools), and gassiness.

This imbalance can happen if you switch sides too frequently before your baby gets down to the hindmilk. An overabundance of breast milk can also create a situation where the baby fills up on foremilk. Fully draining the breast before switching sides can help ensure your baby gets hindmilk at each feeding. You can also pump at the start of each session to drain off some of the foremilk. If needed, talk to your pediatrician or lactation consultant to help even out your supply.

Infection and other medical concerns

Finally, let your pediatrician know about any gassiness that's accompanied by fever, incontinence, diarrhea, severe abdominal pain, poor growth, blood in the stool, or other sudden symptoms. These symptoms might signal an underlying issue like an infection.

Just added to your cart

Little Bundle

Got a Gassy Baby? 6 Tips to Relieve Infant Gas

No one likes a grumpy newborn: not mom, not dad, and certainly not the baby! One of the most common sources of infant discomfort is trapped gas. While it’s certainly frustrating, there are several steps you can take to reduce gassiness and get your little one back to feeling good.

Here are six tips and tricks we recommend for relieving and reducing infant gas:

Change feeding positions

Trapped gas occurs when an infant is unable to move gas out of the digestive system effectively. One of the easiest ways to help this process is by feeding your infant in an upright position. We want gravity’s help to keep the milk down which then lets the air up!

If you are bottle-feeding, try feeding your baby with his or her back sitting against your chest rather than laying down in the crook of your elbow. If you’re breastfeeding, try using the koala or upright football hold .

Burp regularly

There is no limit to how often you can attempt to burp a gassy baby! The AAP recommends burping every 2-3 ounces if bottle feeding but some babies may need more than this. Try burping at different intervals, by ounces or feeding duration, to find a frequency that works for you.

You might also consider different positions for burping. While the baby-over-the-shoulder position is most well-known, many parents find that their baby burps more easily in a seated position with a parent’s hand cradling the chin and the other pushing up gently on the back.

Use an anti-gas or anti-colic bottle

Not all bottles are created equal! Some bottles have been specially designed to reduce the likelihood that an infant will swallow expelled air. Bottles with liners, vents, and inserts are typically a good option. Some recommendations include:

  • Dr. Brown’s Anti-Colic bottle
  • Evenflo Feeding Angled Vented Plus bottle
  • Playtex Baby Nurser with Drop-In Liners

Additionally, many parents find that using a smaller-stage nipple is helpful (such as a preemie or stage 1 option). A nipple that allows milk to flow too fast may cause a baby to gulp and gasp-- this means they’ll take in air as they swallow. A slower flow nipple can help some infants control their air intake more efficiently as they’re feeding.

Give probiotics

One of the reasons babies have gas is because their digestive systems are still so new. A baby’s gut microbiome, or the collection of beneficial and harmful bacteria in the gut, may be out of balance. Many parents give their baby infant probiotics to help correct this imbalance and reduce gastrointestinal symptoms.

Probiotics for babies are typically packaged as drops or powders that are added to formula or expressed milk. Additionally, some formulas, such as HiPP Dutch , contain both prebiotic and probiotic as standard ingredients. If you’d like to learn more about probiotics, check out Infant Probiotics: Does Your Baby Need Them? for a great overview.

Consider a specialized formula

While most babies can do well on a standard formula, some may need a formula that is specialized. The two options used most frequently for gastrointestinal symptoms are hydrolyzed and hypoallergenic formulas:

  • Hydrolyzed . Formulas that are hydrolyzed have proteins that are broken down into smaller fragments so that they’re easier to digest. We recommend HiPP Comfort as our go-to organic, high-quality hydrolyzed formula.
  • Hypoallergenic. Formulas that are hypoallergenic are more significant hydrolyzed and in some cases have proteins broken down into their smallest components-- amino acids. We recommend HiPP HA PRE if you need a hypoallergenic formula as it is both dairy- and corn-free. This makes it a good choice for babies with extra sensitive tummies or for those with Cow’s Milk Protein Allergy, or CMPA .

As a reminder, please always check with your pediatrician before introducing or switching to a specialized formula!

Perform infant exercises to get things moving

Does your baby need a workout? Not quite. There are, however, some exercises that you can do to help your baby’s gas move through the digestive system. We recommend the following exercises to reduce discomfort associated with gas:

  • Bicycle legs: Place your baby on its back on the upper portion of your legs (your knees can be flat or bent). Slowly and gently bring the baby’s knee toward the chest and then bring it back down. Alternate the baby’s legs so that as one leg goes up, the other is coming down.
  • Tummy massage: A baby who is struggling with gas might have a belly that feels slightly firm. You can help break up the gas by gently moving your hands in a circular motion around the infant’s stomach while the baby is on its back. We suggest you go clockwise as this follows the natural pattern of the digestive system!
  • Lifted feet: Bringing your baby’s feet up above the belly button when he or she is reclining can help relax the pelvic floor. This is why many women choose to give birth in this position! As the pelvic floor relaxes, it more easily allows for gas to escape.

Gas is common in infants, especially for those who are formula-fed. A new baby’s digestive system is immature and may simply be struggling to adapt to a brand new way of feeding-- by mouth!

While we know it can be distressing, rest assured that in most cases, gas does not mean that something is wrong with your baby.

  • Share Share on Facebook
  • Tweet Tweet on Twitter
  • Pin it Pin on Pinterest
  • choosing a selection results in a full page refresh
  • press the space key then arrow keys to make a selection

PopSugar

How to Get Rid of Baby Gas, Fast - According to Pediatricians

W hen your baby is unhappy, you likely do everything in your power to make them feel better. But sometimes, knowing the root cause of their discomfort is like a never-ending game of Clue. They may be hot, cold, hungry, or tired, but another common cause of fussiness is baby gas. And getting rid of baby gas is trickier than it seems.

Baby gas occurs for several reasons. "One common cause is their developing digestive system, which may struggle to break down certain components of breast milk or formula ," says Freda Singletary , MD, a pediatrician at Rainbow Pediatrics in Fayetteville, NC. Swallowing air while feeding or crying can also contribute to gas, she adds.

Once an infant starts new, solid foods, their digestive tract has to get used to those changes, which increases gas production, says Jenelle Ferry , MD, a neonatologist and director of feeding, nutrition, and infant development at Pediatrix Medical Group in Tampa, FL.

On top of that, your baby may have difficulty expelling gas ( aka farting ) on their own, Dr. Singletary says. That's due to their weak abdominal muscles and the fact that babies tend to constrict their rectal muscle when bearing down, essentially sealing off the "exit" to release gas.

"As a whole, [baby gas is] normal, though it can certainly be distressing for parents when they see their infants squirming in discomfort," Dr. Ferry says. So we asked the MDs for their best tips for gas relief for babies, including how to tell if your baby has gas, positions to relieve gas in babies, baby gas medicines, and when it's time to talk to your pediatrician.

How to Know If Baby Gas Is the Problem

Your baby may be upset for a variety of reasons, but Dr. Ferry and Dr. Singletary say the following signs and symptoms may indicate they're dealing with baby gas.

Frequent spit-up

Constantly bringing their legs up toward their belly

Straight legs while trying to poop or pass gas

Decreased appetite

Swollen or bloated belly

Frequent gurgling or bubbling noises

Gas Relief For Babies

If you suspect gas is the culprit, your next question is likely how you can get rid of the baby gas fast. There are several options, from positions that help relieve gas in babies to medicines. Here are some doctor-approved tips.

Positions to Help Relieve Gas in Babies

To help get rid of baby gas, Dr. Singletary suggests gentle tummy massages. You'll want to get a clear how-to from your pediatrician, but one technique is to start by lying your baby on their back and bringing their knees toward their chest. That alone might do it, but you can also try holding each foot in one hand and softly moving their legs in a pedaling motion, she says.

Tummy time, meant to help your baby build up neck and back strength, can also help get rid of baby gas by placing gentle pressure on the baby's stomach, Dr. Ferry says. For specific how-tos, check out our in-depth guide to tummy time here .

Home Remedies That Get Rid of Baby Gas Fast

Applying a warm compress or water bottle wrapped in a towel on your baby's tummy can provide gas relief, Dr. Singletary says. Just test the compress or bottle on the inside of your wrist and make sure it's slightly warmer than room temperature, not scalding hot - you can easily burn your baby's sensitive skin.

Baby Gas Medicine

Over-the-counter gas drops for babies can sometimes provide relief, but it's essential to consult your pediatrician before using any medication, Dr. Singletary says. "Gas drops are generally safe when used as directed, but your doctor can provide specific guidance based on your baby's health."

The same is true for any OTC remedy you're interested in trying out: talk to your child's doctor first. Gripe water, for instance, is commonly recommended for baby gas. It usually contains sodium bicarbonate and herbs such as fennel, ginger, lemon balm, or chamomile, Dr. Ferry says. While some parents say it helps with gassiness, "most of the evidence for this is anecdotal and not shown in scientific studies," she says. And your doctor may have a valid reason for recommending that you steer clear.

Prevent Baby Gas From Building Up

The best way to relieve baby gas is to prevent it. Since gas is often caused by swallowing air during feedings, making some adjustments to your feeding technique is one of the most powerful ways to mitigate symptoms.

To start, try incorporating some breaks into your usual feeding time. Pause every five to 10 minutes when breastfeeding, or once your child has consumed two to three ounces of milk if you're using a bottle, and burp them, suggests Johns Hopkins All Children's Hospital . "This helps to get the gas out of the stomach, before it has a chance to make it down to the intestines and cause discomfort," Dr. Ferry says.

Additionally, if you're breastfeeding , make sure the baby is getting a deep latch on the nipple, Dr. Ferry says. If you have issues or difficulty, a lactation consultant is a great resource. Breastfeeding parents can also take a look at their own diet. Dr. Ferry says beans, cabbage, and broccoli are known to cause gassiness in babies. "Sometimes avoiding these foods can help," she says. "I usually recommend avoiding one food at a time and waiting several days to see if there is a response."

If you're bottle feeding, the right latch is still important. Experiment with different bottles to find one that allows your infant to get a deep latch, Dr. Ferry says.

Infants can also be allergic to ingredients; if you suspect that may be a cause for fussiness or discomfort after feeding, talk to your pediatrician.

When to Talk to Your Pediatrician About Baby Gas

In general, it's fine to bring concerns to your pediatrician early and often. As noted above, talk to them before trying gas remedies like tummy massage or gas drops, if you suspect your infant may have an allergy, or if you need feeding tips.

But you should definitely talk to the doctor "if your baby's gas-related discomfort persists, worsens, or if you notice other concerning symptoms such as vomiting, blood in the stool, or poor weight gain," Dr. Singletary says. From there, your pediatrician can evaluate your baby's health and provide personalized advice.

Just remember that each baby is unique, and what works for one may not work for another, Dr. Singletary says. "It's normal for babies to experience gas occasionally, and it usually improves as their digestive system matures, but if you have any concerns or questions, reach out to your pediatrician for guidance tailored to your baby's specific needs."

How to Get Rid of Baby Gas, Fast - According to Pediatricians

13 Ways to Relieve Your Baby’s Gas Pains

by Heather | Jul 30, 2019 | Baby Hacks

how to overcome gas problem in babies

As a mother, there is really nothing worse than hearing your little baby screaming in pain from gas . Babies cannot express in words what is hurting them and sometimes the first sign of discomfort that we notice is our baby crying more than normal.

One of the most common issues that babies suffer from is painful gas that they cannot eliminate on their own.

I am not a doctor. These are just my experiences with gas pains in my babies. Please consult your doctor before treating your baby. This page may contain affiliate links, however, I will never recommend anything that I do not believe in and use myself. You can read more about my disclosure policy here.  

how to overcome gas problem in babies

How Do I Know If My Baby Is Having Gas Pains?

Although your baby cannot talk yet, he or she will show some pretty obvious signs of discomfort from having gas in their tummy.

Some signs include:

  • crying while passing gas or soon after
  • lifting the legs
  • arching their back
  • a swollen-looking tummy
  • passing gas or belching a lot
  • excessive spitting up
  • trouble sleeping

Why Does My Baby Have So Much Gas?

Unlike adults, babies take in a lot more gas and have a much harder time eliminating it on their own. Here are a few reasons that babies may have so much gas.

  • Incorrect breastfeeding latch – If your baby is not properly latched onto the breast they will swallow too much air
  • Constipation
  • Excessive crying – When your baby is crying a lot your baby’s belly fills with air

How to Prevent Painful Gas In Your Baby

So once you have discovered that your baby’s discomfort is caused by trapped gas, you should try to take steps to prevent your baby from having excess gas in the future.

I had two babies that had tummy troubles attributed to gas and acid reflux so I have tried every tip you can think of. Here are 7 proven ways to prevent your baby from having painful gas.

  • 17 Ways to Soothe A Crying Baby
  • How to Soothe Acid Reflux in Your Baby Who is Always Spitting Up

1. More Frequent Burping

One of the first tips that I recommend trying when your baby is letting out lots of gas is more frequent burping. Since babies often get extra air during feedings, stopping in the middle of a feeding and burping can help them to eliminate gas before continuing to eat.

So if they are breastfed try to burp your baby when they have finished with one breast and before putting them on the other.

And if your baby is formula-fed, try to stop the feeding once they have emptied half of their bottle and burping before continuing to feed them. 

Making this one change to my baby’s eating habits really helped to get rid of the excess gas they were taking in.

  • 23 Things I Swore I’d Never Do As A Mom, But Did
  • 12 Fun Ways for New Dads to Help and Be Involved with a Breastfed Baby
  • Baby Gear You Should Always Buy Used and Never Pay Full Price For
  • 19 Baby Items You Do NOT Need and Will Regret Buying

how to overcome gas problem in babies

2. Feeding Position

How do you feed your baby? More importantly, how is your baby being held or sitting when they are eating?

This may not seem like a very important thing to think about when feeding your baby, but it truly can help when your baby is prone to having gas and acid reflux. 

If you are feeding your baby while they are laying down they may take in more air and it will also go straight to their tummy and have a hard time getting out in that position. This is why it is always recommended feeding your baby in a more upright sitting position to help everything go down through their tummy.

This is also a pro tip for babies that suffer from acid reflux and spit up a lot.

Although it may be easier to hold your baby in this position if you are bottle feeding, using a Boppy pillow can also help breastfeeding moms to achieve the same position. As long as your baby’s head is higher than the rest of their body, you are allowing everything to move along correctly.

  • 17 Strange But Totally Normal Things That Happen With a Newborn Baby
  • 21 Mind-Blowing Uses for Breast Milk You’ve Never Thought Of
  • 7 Reasons Why I FAILED at Breastfeeding My First Baby

how to overcome gas problem in babies

3. Improving Breastfeeding Latch

Having the perfect breastfeeding latch is super important for your baby to get enough breast milk, prevent nipple pain, and even prevent your baby from having painful gas.

Think of your baby’s mouth like a suction cup. If your baby doesn’t get good suction, they will get air. And air goes straight to your baby’s tummy causing uncomfortable gas.

If you are having a hard time getting the perfect latch while breastfeeding I highly recommend taking a breastfeeding class. My favorite breastfeeding class is Milkology.

Unlike other breastfeeding classes, Milkology can be taken right from the comfort of your own home. It is taught by Stacey Stewart who is a Certified Lactation Educator and a mom of 3. She has helped numerous moms learn to breastfeed and overcome breastfeeding obstacles throughout her career.

  • 9 Steps to Achieving The Perfect Breastfeeding Latch
  • 9 Remedies For Treating Sore Nipples And Breasts from Breastfeeding
  • 14 Natural Benefits of Breastfeeding for Both Mom and Baby
  • 13 Common Breastfeeding Struggles New Moms Face and How to Fix Them

how to overcome gas problem in babies

4. Sleeping Position

Why is my baby so gassy at night?

Since most babies are active more during the day, they are able to work out most of their gas through movement. However, when your baby is trying to settle down for the night, they are less active and their gas can build up and have no way of being released.

One of the best sleeping positions for a gassy baby is having them in a more upright position while asleep. We also found this helpful for our baby’s acid reflux. 

We found that letting our babies sleep in the baby swing, rock and play cradle, or a bouncy seat were all ways to keep them in a comfortable position so they could pass the painful gas.

  • 12 Baby Sleep Tips for Exhausted New Parents
  • 8 Tips for Co-Sleeping Safely With Your Baby
  • 3 Amazing Benefits of Cosleeping

how to overcome gas problem in babies

5. Different Bottles

Is your baby swallowing air while bottle-feeding?

If you are using typical baby bottles that are not designed for preventing painful gas, your baby is probably swallowing excess air while feeding.

Luckily, there are numerous different bottles available for babies who suffer from gas problems and they are a perfect choice for changing your baby’s bottle up.

  • 15 Formula Feeding Must-Haves For New Moms
  • 9 Genius Time-Saving Hacks for Formula Feeding
  • 12 Reasons to Stop Shaming Formula Feeding Mothers

how to overcome gas problem in babies

6. Check Baby’s Diet

How does a baby’s diet affect gas?

Every baby is uniquely different and can tolerate different foods. Some foods may upset your baby’s tummy more than others. It really is just dependent on your baby’s digestive system.

If you are a breastfeeding mom and your baby is having gas pains, you should check your diet for common foods that cause gas in breastfed babies. Some of the biggest culprits in a breastfeeding moms diet could be certain fruits and veggies.

If your baby is formula-fed, you may need to check with your doctor and get advice about switching to a more gentle baby formula. I personally love the baby formula from Formuland because they have the highest standards and have specialty formula for babies who suffer from gas pains.

how to overcome gas problem in babies

Finally, if your baby has started to eat solids, some of them may be a culprit for your baby’s gas pains. Common baby foods that cause gas are beans, broccoli, brussel sprouts, cabbage, cauliflower, bran, oatmeal, apricots and more.

So try to eliminate some of these foods if they are in your baby’s diet and see if that makes a difference.

  • 9 Reasons Moms Should Not Pierce Their Baby’s Ears
  • 10 Tips for Helping Your Child Give Up The Binky or Pacifier
  • 12 Ways to Save Money When Having a New Baby

how to overcome gas problem in babies

7. Try Shorter and More Frequent Feedings

Babies are notorious for trying to finish a feeding really fast and they often don’t stop until they are done. For babies that suffer from gas pains and even acid reflux trying to feed your baby in shorter intervals and more frequently can help to prevent a lot of problems.

By having smaller feedings more often you are not filling your baby up and letting them take in more gas in one sitting. You can then burp them and help them to work out any gas they may have before giving them more to eat.

  • 10 Tips to Survive Nighttime Breastfeeding Without Losing Hours of Sleep
  • How To Tell If Your Baby Is Getting Enough Breast Milk
  • How to Establish and Maintain a Good Breast Milk Supply for Your Newborn Baby
  • 26 Unexpected Things that Actually Happen When You are a Breastfeeding Mom
  • 10 Exceptional Ways to Increase Your Breast Milk Supply for Breastfeeding Success

how to overcome gas problem in babies

How Do I Relieve My Baby’s Painful Gas?

So of course, preventing your baby’s gas in the first place is very important, but you still are going to want to relieve your baby’s current gas pains now. Here are the best ways to help your baby move that painful gas out.

8. Gas Drops

One of the most common baby products that are made to help with your baby’s gas pains is gas drops. Gas drops contain simethicone which is used to break up larger gas bubbles into smaller ones making them easier for your baby to pass.

  • 9 Tips for Dealing with Visitors After Baby is Born
  • 15 Crazy Unexpected Things that Happen to New Moms After Childbirth
  • 6 Reliable Tips for Breastfeeding in Public

9. Belly Rubbing

Your baby’s gas pains are likely mostly in their tummy since that’s where the painful gas likes to build up. 

By gently rubbing your baby’s tummy, you can help the gas to move down and out to give them relief. Always be very careful and make slow movements so you don’t’ upset your baby’s tummy any further.

  • 12 Questions to Ask Yourself Before Having Another Baby
  • 13 Tips for Dealing With Unwanted Parenting Advice
  • How to Continue Breastfeeding Even After Your Baby Starts Teething

how to overcome gas problem in babies

10. Bicycle Legs

My favorite tip for how to get rid of baby gas fast is bicycle legs.

Just like as an adult, when you lift your legs to your stomach, you are often able to help your body to pass gas. The same goes for babies, although they don’t know this and may not have the dexterity to do it themselves. 

To use the bicycle technique, gently hold your babies legs at the calf and slowly move them up and outward to the side until they look like they are ringing a bicycle.

We found that this movement helped tremendously with both of our babies gas pains .

  • 9 Important Signs Of Postpartum Depression In New Moms
  • 34 Baby Essentials You Must Put On Your Baby Registry
  • Breastfeeding Mishaps | Lip-Tie, Tongue-Tie, and Biting…Oh, My!

how to overcome gas problem in babies

11. Holding Positions

Just like when you are feeding your baby, how you hold them after a feeding can help them to eliminate any extra gas remaining.

It is recommended for babies that suffer from gas pains to be kept upright after eating for at least 30 minutes. This helps their food to move through the digestive system rather than collecting in the stomach and causing pain.

  • 19 Tips for Surviving The First Week Home With A Newborn Baby
  • 5 Comfortable Baby Carriers for Keeping Your Baby Close and Your Hands-Free
  • 10 Crucial Newborn Essentials that No One Talks About
  • 7 Fantastic Benefits of Babywearing

how to overcome gas problem in babies

12. Baby Massage

Another great tip to try is baby massage for gas pains.

Baby massage has been found to be very beneficial for helping your baby to relax, preventing reflux and helping your baby to eliminate their gas. By massaging your baby’s tummy and back you may be able to help them move their gas before they have pain.

  • 13 Essential Baby Items for Surviving the First Year!
  • How Baltic Amber Relieved My Son’s Teething Pain
  • 6 Things You Should NEVER Say to a Stay-at-Home-Mom

how to overcome gas problem in babies

13. Warm Bath

They always say that a warm bath fixes everything. 

And with your baby’s gas pains it certainly can help. Giving your baby a calm bath can help their body to become relaxed and eventually pass any painful gas they’ve been holding onto.

  • The Beginner’s Guide to Making a Hooded Bath Towel
  • 10 Brilliant Bathtime Products for Bathing Your Active Toddler
  • 7 Tips for Creating the Perfect Bedtime Routine

how to overcome gas problem in babies

Is your baby suffering from painful gas? Try these tips and tell me how they work.

Hi i’m heather.

Very Anxious Mommy - Welcome to my blog where I write about Parenting Naturally and Living Frugally

I am the Wife, Mommy, & Blogger behind Very Anxious Mommy! This is where you will find all of my helpful tips for Budgeting, Motherhood, and Parenting kids with Autism without losing your sanity.

how to overcome gas problem in babies

Pin It on Pinterest

  • Getting Pregnant
  • Registry Builder
  • Baby Products
  • Birth Clubs
  • See all in Community
  • Ovulation Calculator
  • How To Get Pregnant
  • How To Get Pregnant Fast
  • Ovulation Discharge
  • Implantation Bleeding
  • Ovulation Symptoms
  • Pregnancy Symptoms
  • Am I Pregnant?
  • Pregnancy Tests
  • See all in Getting Pregnant
  • Due Date Calculator
  • Pregnancy Week by Week
  • Pregnant Sex
  • Weight Gain Tracker
  • Signs of Labor
  • Morning Sickness
  • COVID Vaccine and Pregnancy
  • Fetal Weight Chart
  • Fetal Development
  • Pregnancy Discharge
  • Find Out Baby Gender
  • Chinese Gender Predictor
  • See all in Pregnancy
  • Baby Name Generator
  • Top Baby Names 2023
  • Top Baby Names 2024
  • How to Pick a Baby Name
  • Most Popular Baby Names
  • Baby Names by Letter
  • Gender Neutral Names
  • Unique Boy Names
  • Unique Girl Names
  • Top baby names by year
  • See all in Baby Names
  • Baby Development
  • Baby Feeding Guide
  • Newborn Sleep
  • When Babies Roll Over
  • First-Year Baby Costs Calculator
  • Postpartum Health
  • Baby Poop Chart
  • See all in Baby
  • Average Weight & Height
  • Autism Signs
  • Child Growth Chart
  • Night Terrors
  • Moving from Crib to Bed
  • Toddler Feeding Guide
  • Potty Training
  • Bathing and Grooming
  • See all in Toddler
  • Height Predictor
  • Potty Training: Boys
  • Potty training: Girls
  • How Much Sleep? (Ages 3+)
  • Ready for Preschool?
  • Thumb-Sucking
  • Gross Motor Skills
  • Napping (Ages 2 to 3)
  • See all in Child
  • Photos: Rashes & Skin Conditions
  • Symptom Checker
  • Vaccine Scheduler
  • Reducing a Fever
  • Acetaminophen Dosage Chart
  • Constipation in Babies
  • Ear Infection Symptoms
  • Head Lice 101
  • See all in Health
  • Second Pregnancy
  • Daycare Costs
  • Family Finance
  • Stay-At-Home Parents
  • Breastfeeding Positions
  • See all in Family
  • Baby Sleep Training
  • Preparing For Baby
  • My Custom Checklist
  • My Registries
  • Take the Quiz
  • Best Baby Products
  • Best Breast Pump
  • Best Convertible Car Seat
  • Best Infant Car Seat
  • Best Baby Bottle
  • Best Baby Monitor
  • Best Stroller
  • Best Diapers
  • Best Baby Carrier
  • Best Diaper Bag
  • Best Highchair
  • See all in Baby Products
  • Why Pregnant Belly Feels Tight
  • Early Signs of Twins
  • Teas During Pregnancy
  • Baby Head Circumference Chart
  • How Many Months Pregnant Am I
  • What is a Rainbow Baby
  • Braxton Hicks Contractions
  • HCG Levels By Week
  • When to Take a Pregnancy Test
  • Am I Pregnant
  • Why is Poop Green
  • Can Pregnant Women Eat Shrimp
  • Insemination
  • UTI During Pregnancy
  • Vitamin D Drops
  • Best Baby Forumla
  • Postpartum Depression
  • Low Progesterone During Pregnancy
  • Baby Shower
  • Baby Shower Games

Gas pain in children

Gas pain in children and toddlers is rarely serious – but it can be uncomfortable and keep a gassy toddler up at night.

Liz Donner, M.D.

Is it normal for kids and toddlers to have gas pain?

What are the symptoms of gas pain in kids, what causes gas pain in kids, gas pain relief tips for kids, what to do about toddler gas pains at night, can i give my child medications for gas pains, should i worry if my child has gas pains.

Yes, it's perfectly normal for kids and toddlers to have gas pain. Unless your child is experiencing more than minor discomfort and complaining a lot, it's generally not a cause for concern.

Gas may happen once in a while – for example, when your child is constipated or after overindulging at a party. If your child is often gassy, it's possible that a particular food or eating habit is to blame. Gas pain is actually a sign of excess gas in their digestive tract. But most of the time, the excess gas should clear up on its own.

If you've ever dealt with toddler gas pains at night, you know the symptoms of gas pain can make it hard for your child to sleep. No matter the time of day, gas pain can feel uncomfortable for your child. Symptoms of gas pain include:

  • Frequent burping or flatulence
  • Abdominal bloating
  • Pain or burning in their belly
  • Possibly nausea

Ask your older child to describe their abdominal pain or stomach ache . Stomach pain over more than half the belly is typical for gas, constipation, indigestion, or diarrhea. Gas can also feel like a cramp, which may be followed by diarrhea. If you have an infant or toddler, they could be having gas pain if they are more fussy than usual, not eating like normal, and drawing their legs up toward their belly.

Your child's diet often plays a role in their gas pain or indigestion. Certain foods like beans, broccoli, and cauliflower are all culprits. Some children may be sensitive to high-fiber foods, such as cereal, and fatty foods, like French fries. Carbonated beverages and caffeine – even that in chocolate – can also be to blame. Juice, which is high in sugar, can bring on gas and diarrhea. In fact, the American Academy of Pediatrics recommends limiting how much – if any – juice you offer your child based on age:

  • Younger than 12 months: No juice
  • Ages 1 to 3: No more than 4 ounces (1/2 cup) a day
  • Ages 4 to 6: No more than 6 ounces (1/2 to 3/4 cup) a day

Not drinking enough water can also lead to gas pain. While drinking water won't eliminate a gas problem, upping your child's fluid intake can help relieve constipation , which often coincides with gas and abdominal discomfort.

Other factors that cause gas pain include:

  • A developing digestive system: Your toddler's body may not yet fully absorb a food – like the sugar in a sweet beverage. That food ends up in their colon, where it's fermented by bacteria. This process can cause gas, abdominal pain, diarrhea, nausea, or vomiting.
  • Chewing gum: The artificial sweeteners in sugar-free gum are difficult for some children to digest. They get trapped in the colon and are fermented into intestinal gas. Chewing gum also increases the odds of swallowing excess air.
  • Moving around during meals: When kids move around and play while they eat, instead of sitting at the table, they tend to get excited, eat fast, and gulp, all of which can increase air in their intestinal tracts. Moving around while eating also increases the risk of choking.
  • Screen time during meals: If your child eats while engaged in another activity, such as watching a video, they may ignore their body's signals that they're full and overeat, which can cause gas.
  • An underlying health condition: Constipation is a common cause of gas in children. If gas is accompanied by other tummy troubles – like pain, vomiting, or a change in bowel movements – it's possible your child has an underlying health condition, such as lactose intolerance or irritable bowel syndrome (IBS).

There are a few things you can do to relieve gas pain at home. To get rid of gas pain, first look at your child's diet. Observe which types of foods cause your child to have painful gas and limit or avoid them. Don't overload him with too many gas-inducing veggies at consecutive meals. Avoid fatty foods, caffeine and carbonated drinks, and limit or cut out juice. If you give your child juice, only use 100 percent fruit juice. (Learn more about the best and worst drinks for kids .)

As your child grows, their body will be better able to handle a greater variety of foods. In the meantime, try to reintroduce small amounts of gas-producing foods into their diet periodically. Increase the amount slowly, based on their response. In addition, encourage your child to drink from a water bottle throughout the day. As a general rule, your children should drink approximately one 8-ounce cup of water for each year of life up to a maximum of 8 cups. For example, a 3-year old should drink 3 cups (24 ounces) per day. The exact amount may vary based on your child's weight. You could also discuss their diet with their healthcare provider, who might have other suggestions.

Lastly, encourage your child to sit at the table with you during meals, chew their food well, and take their time while eating. Be sure to turn off all screens and focus on eating. Reassure them that she'll have time to play after the meal.

Gas pains at night are relatively common for both toddlers and adults. Gas builds up in the intestines during the day, so we often pass more gas at nighttime. During the day, monitor your child's diet and have them eat smaller meals, slowly if they can. Incorporate plenty of physical activity during their day as well. If your gassy toddler can't sleep at night, offer them small sips of water and have them walk around a little to try to move gas through the digestive tract.

A few over-the-counter medications and remedies offer gas relief for kids. Consult with your child's healthcare provider before giving any medication to your child. Some gas pain relief options you can ask about include:

  • Over-the-counter anti-gas medicine: Anti-gas medicine containing simethicone dissolves gas bubbles and prevents gas pockets in the intestines and stomach. It's generally considered safe, but there is little evidence as to whether it really works. Don't combine anti-gas medicine with any other stomach medicine or antacid that also contains simethicone. Also, avoid simethicone drops that contain sodium benzoate or benzoic acid.
  • Antacids: Antacids neutralize stomach acid and may help if your child is dealing with heartburn or indigestion in addition to gas. Talk to your doctor first as antacids aren't recommended for long-term use and can even cause side effects like constipation and diarrhea.
  • Gripe water: Gripe water is an herbal solution not regulated by the FDA that is thought to help with gas. Like most medications to treat gas, the effectiveness is variable. Gripe water usually includes water, baking soda, and a variety of herbs like ginger and fennel. It might also include sweeteners. Talk to your doctor if you want to give gripe water a try.
  • Probiotics: Probiotics are microorganisms that may help re-establish the intestines' normal physiological environment. Some have been shown to reduce the duration and frequency of diarrhea, although more research is needed. There are many different probiotics available over-the-counter, as well as in cultured dairy products, so talk to your pediatrician about what might be best for your child.

As uncomfortable as gas pain is for a child (or anyone!), it will most likely clear up on its own. If you're concerned or have questions about your child's gas pain, don't hesitate to call their doctor. Talk to your provider right away if you're noticing any of the below symptoms:

  • They have pain so severe they can't move without causing more pain
  • Bloody stools
  • Swelling of the abdomen
  • Severe tenderness when you touch their stomach
  • Skin that appears yellow
  • Persistent nausea or vomiting
  • Difficulty sitting in a comfortable position

Stomach ache in babies and toddlers

  • Nutrition guidelines for young children
  • Teaching table manners to your preschooler
  • How to avoid making meals a power struggle

Was this article helpful?

doctor checking girl's tummy with a stethoscope

Why your baby or toddler wakes up screaming at night

toddler crying in crib

The 13 best and worst drinks for thirsty kids

A toddler drinking from a mug

Milk allergy and lactose intolerance in babies

A person feeding a baby a bottle

BabyCenter's editorial team is committed to providing the most helpful and trustworthy pregnancy and parenting information in the world. When creating and updating content, we rely on credible sources: respected health organizations, professional groups of doctors and other experts, and published studies in peer-reviewed journals. We believe you should always know the source of the information you're seeing. Learn more about our editorial and medical review policies .

Johns Hopkins All Children's Hospital. A to Z: Flatulence, Eructation, and Gas Pain. Undated. https://www.hopkinsallchildrens.org/Patients-Families/Health-Library/HealthDocNew/A-to-Z-Flatulence-Eructation-and-Gas-Pain Opens a new window [Accessed April 2022]

Medline Plus. Abdominal Pain – Children Under 12. 2021. https://medlineplus.gov/ency/article/007504.htm Opens a new window [Accessed April 2022]

Scripps. Stomach Pain in Kids and Teens. 2019. https://www.scripps.org/news_items/6821-stomach-pain-in-kids-and-teens Opens a new window [Accessed April 2022]

Healthy Children. Where We Stand: Fruit Juice. 2017. https://www.healthychildren.org/English/healthy-living/nutrition/Pages/Where-We-Stand-Fruit-Juice.aspx Opens a new window [Accessed April 2022]

Texas Children's Hospital. Over-the-Counter Medications for Kids Part 2. Undated. https://www.texaschildrens.org/blog/2014/05/over-counter-medications-kids-%E2%80%93-part-2-constipation-gasindigestion-and-probiotics Opens a new window [Accessed April 2022]

GI Society. Intestinal Gas. Undated. https://badgut.org/information-centre/a-z-digestive-topics/intestinal-gas/ Opens a new window [Accessed April 2022]

Mayo Clinic. Home Remedies: Gas, Belching, and Bloating. 2016. https://newsnetwork.mayoclinic.org/discussion/home-remedies-gas-belching-and-bloating/ Opens a new window [Accessed April 2022]

NHS. Antacids. 2019. https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/antacids/ Opens a new window [Accessed April 2022]

NIH. Treatment for GER and GERD in Children. 2020. https://www.niddk.nih.gov/health-information/digestive-diseases/acid-reflux-ger-gerd-children/treatment Opens a new window [Accessed April 2022]

Mayo Clinic. Stomach Ache in Children: How to Know If It's Serious. 2021. https://www.mayoclinichealthsystem.org/hometown-health/speaking-of-health/stomachache-in-children-how-to-know-if-its-serious Opens a new window [Accessed April 2022]

Maggie Getz

Maggie Getz is a freelance writer and editor specializing in health, wellness, and motherhood. She lives in Colorado with her husband and young son and daughter. She enjoys hiking, yoga, baking (and eating said baked goods), as well as connecting with other moms.

Where to go next

crying baby laying on its back in the crib

  • Skip to primary navigation
  • Skip to main content
  • Skip to primary sidebar

Full Heart Mommy

The Best Home Remedies For Quick Baby Gas Relief

by Lachelle · This post may contain affiliate links.

how to overcome gas problem in babies

Is it normal for babies to be so gassy? The answer is yes! As a matter of fact, babies pass gas anywhere from 13 to 21 times per day!

Adjusting feeding positions, massaging the baby’s tummy, and diet changes can all help to break up the gas and provide relief. Additionally, parents can try feeding their baby smaller meals more often, or burping them after each feeding.

Whether you’re a first-time parent or a seasoned pro, watching your newborn writhe in pain from gas can be heartbreaking. Luckily, there are a few things you can do to help ease their discomfort. Here’s a quick guide to natural newborn gas remedies.

how to overcome gas problem in babies

As a new mom, I expected issues with sleepless nights and blow outs but I was completely blown away how much of an issue baby gas was. 

Call me crazy, but I didn’t realize my baby’s little digestive system would be such a source of discomfort. As soon I realized baby gas was going to be a problem, I immediately wanted to know every newborn baby gas problem home remedy!

What Is Baby Gas?

Gas is the result of air getting trapped in your baby’s stomach due to the digestion process or when your baby swallows a lot of air.

There are lots of opportunities for your baby to take in air, for example, while they are feeding or if they are crying for extended periods of time.

Causes of Baby Gas

Drinking from a bottle too fast can cause gas because the baby can gulp the milk down too quickly.

Additionally, drinking from a nipple that has a flow that is too slow, can cause the baby to gulp extra air when feeding.

Drinking a formula prepared bottle that has too many air bubbles

Not tolerating the current baby formula well

Eating foods known to cause gas or mom is eats something that causes gas and it makes it way into her breastmilk.

Signs Your Baby Has Gas

Babies can have trouble with gas starting in the early weeks all the way through to the toddler stage.  The peak time that baby gas is the worst is around 4 to 12 weeks.

It can be very hard to see your baby screaming in pain from gas, but that can often be the first and most obvious sign.

Your baby can’t exactly tell you that gas is making them uncomfortable so here are some other signs to look for:

Passing gas/farting

Clenched Fists

Lifting their legs/stretching their body out/arching back

If helping your baby to pass gas relieves them of discomfort and they calm back down, then you can be sure the problem was gas.

However, constipation looks like a lot like gas. It won’t be relieved by passing gas. You will know if your baby is constipated by observing their stool. Is it hard? Does your baby seem to be struggling to have a bowel movement?

How Can I Relieve My Baby’s Gas Naturally?

Here are some tips on how to get rid of baby gas fast.

1. Check the feeding position

how to overcome gas problem in babies

When you’re bottle feeding your baby, try and prevent the gas problem before it starts.

 You can do this by positioning your baby with their head elevated. Try and keep your baby’s head above their stomach.

 Use a nursing pillow to make positioning easier on your arms and comfortable for your baby.

2. Change bottle or nipple if necessary

how to overcome gas problem in babies

Some bottles are specially made to minimize air bubbles, like Dr. Brown’s, which has a special vent system to eliminate negative pressure and air bubbles. 

This does mean there are extra bottle pieces to wash but for some moms this a minor inconvenience for a less gassy baby!

The Munchkin Latch Anti Colic bottles are a simpler set up and feature a valve at the bottom of the bottle that prevents air bubbles from traveling through the milk.

Pay attention to the milk flow from the nipple. Most bottle systems have levels or numbers on the nipples to indicate the suggested age you should use each nipple. 

My favorite slow flow nipples are these by Dr. Browns or these naturally shaped Comotomo nipples .

3. Baby massage

Massage is an amazing newborn baby gas problem home remedy that can help them pass those trapped gas bubbles. 

There are many different baby massage techniques. You can try the I Love You massage technique where you mimic writing the letters, I, L and Y on your baby’s stomach. 

4. Use baby gripe water

how to overcome gas problem in babies

Gripe water is herbal supplement for stomach discomfort, commonly made from herbs like fennel and ginger. 

Gripe water is generally safe for relieving pain from gas and digestion problems. Be sure to look for a formula that is specifically formulated for babies, and does not include alcohol, sugar or artificial flavors. 

I like the Little Remedies brand because it doesn’t include anything you would be concerned about giving your baby.

5. Try feeding your baby earlier

If you’re keeping up with your baby’s sleeping and eating schedule, you may be able to time the feedings so that they’re predictable. 

Feeding your baby before they get into a full-on hungry cry may help them relax and not gulp down a bottle.

Anticipating when your baby wants to nurse or bottle feed, can help them relax and feed at a leisurely pace.

For the first few months of my daughter’s life, I was very aware of the clock and the times she needed to be fed. At first, I was using an app, but as the weeks went on I was able to remember on my own for the most part.

6. Move your baby’s legs in a bicycling motion

how to overcome gas problem in babies

Lay your baby on their back and move their legs in a pedal motion. This might look funny, but it really will help physically move your baby’s gas along!

7. Consider diet changes 

If you’re breastfeeding, you may be eating foods that your baby is sensitive to and this could cause your baby to be gassy. 

Some common foods that can cause your baby to be gassy include:

Dairy 

how to overcome gas problem in babies

If you’re not for sure what’s causing the gas, try cutting one specific food out of your diet for a week at a time to see if that helps. 

8. Make sure your baby’s formula isn’t the issue

There are special formulas for gassy babies and these might help your little one digest their milk better. These gentle formulas have partially broken down proteins and probiotics.

My daughter was on one of these formulas and I have noticed that they can be a bit more pricer than “regular” formula.

Related: Formula Feeding Tips and Tricks To Make Your Life Easier

how to overcome gas problem in babies

If your baby does better on this type of formula, there are a couple of ways to save on this. You can sign up for coupons from the manufacturer or get samples from your pediatrician’s office.

Keep an eye out for sales, baby deals or Amazon subscribe and save.

9. Tummy time for gentle pressure

Gentle pressure is a wonderful trick to relieve stomach discomfort. The good thing is that there is more than one way to do it! Tummy time is another option. 

Yes, tummy time is good for building back and shoulder muscles, but its a great way to help your baby pass gas. 

Do tummy time while supervised, lay your baby across your lap or on a tummy time mat and gently rub their back in a soothing motion.

10.  Offer infant gas drops

how to overcome gas problem in babies

Gas drops have simethicone in them, which is known to break up gas bubbles. These drops can be mixed into formula or breastmilk.

11. Try a comforting carry position

Babies love to be held and being close to you is comforting! Snuggle your baby in between your chin and chest and sway back and forth.

Another interesting position is called the colic carry. You turn your palm up, lay your baby on your forearm with their head towards your elbow. Gently tap their back or give them a bounce to help move that gas along.

12. Burp mid feeding and after feedings

how to overcome gas problem in babies

Stopping to take breaks and burp your baby is honestly a game-changer. You don’t have to wait until your baby is completely done with their bottle to burp them. 

Every two to three ounces, stop feeding and bring your baby into the burping position of choice. Whether that’s over the shoulder, across your lap or sitting up, just help them get that air out. 

Comforting A Gassy Baby At Night

Baby gas pain is a problem at any time of the day, but it can be especially hard at night. You’re trying to get some sleep, but gas and air bubbles are keeping both of you awake.

Your baby’s digestive system is working hard at night while they’re sleeping to develop and also digest milk.

how to overcome gas problem in babies

You can try a quick newborn baby gas problem home remedy like as mentioned previously. Remember, prevention is your best bet at night.

Before bedtime and during the night, try preventing air during feeding. Burp your baby during and after feeding.

Baby Gas Relief and Comfort

If you’re stressing out over a gassy baby, just remember it won’t always be this difficult. Eventually, babies start developing their own self burping skills. When they start sitting up on their own, burping gets easier.

You will get the hang of this in no time and be able to relieve your baby’s gas quickly. If you’re able to comfort your baby through any of the techniques we’ve discussed, you’re doing okay!

Remember it’s okay to learn and adjust as you go. That’s so important and another part of figuring out how to survive the newborn stage !

how to overcome gas problem in babies

FirstCry Parenting

  • Vishal's account

Gas Problem in Infants – Signs, Causes, and Treatment

Gas Problem in Infants – Signs, Causes, and Treatment

Video: Gas Problems in Babies – Causes, Signs & Remedies

How does gas form in babies, signs and symptoms of gas in babies, infographics: gas in babies, home remedial measures to treat gas problem in babies, video  : baby gas problem home remedies, what you can do to prevent gas problem in your baby, when should you call a doctor.

We all have experienced gas pain – it’s uncomfortable AND unwanted. Gas pain can be extremely uncomfortable, and more so for babies. All babies have gas pain and they expel gas often during the day – it is a common occurrence in babies.

If your little one has gas pain, he can’t voice it of course, but you can look for other signs that might help you understand whether he is gassy. If he becomes restless, cries incessantly, or has trouble falling asleep, chances are he might be experiencing gas pain. If your baby has gas pain and he is fussy and squirms a lot, it may be because of gas. Learn here how you can prevent and treat gas in babies.

Infants swallow a lot of air while breastfeeding due to incorrect latching or because of an incorrect posture while bottle-feeding. And sometimes, they digest proteins and fats present in the breast milk or the formula. Gas makes its way out of the baby’s system by building up a small amount of pressure and moving along the digestive tract. However, sometimes, when there is excess gas trapped in the intestines, it can build pressure and result in pain. It is normal for a baby to experience gas pain. Some of the reasons for gas build-up in the baby’s digestive system are mentioned below:

Swallowing air: Swallowing air while being breastfed or bottle-fed is one of the main causes of gas build-up in babies. If a baby latches onto the breast  incorrectly or if they suck on the formula bottle incorrectly, they might swallow air. This could lead to gas in him.

Crying: If a baby cries incessantly while being fed or before being fed, he may swallow air. If the baby cries excessively, it can be a sign of gas build-up. If your baby cries all the time, it may get difficult for you to identify the reason for his cries, but you will soon be able to decode his different types of cries. For now, you can tend to his needs and soothe him. However, if he doesn’t stop crying, you should take him to a doctor.

Immature digestive system: A newborn’s intestine is still developing. As a result of the underdeveloped digestive system, the baby would still be learning how to process food and pass stools, leading to excess gas being formed.

Underdeveloped bacterial flora: A baby may also have gas as a result of the underdeveloped bacterial flora in the intestine.

Eating certain foods while nursing: Breast milk contains traces of foods that the mother consumes. If you eat certain foods like nuts, coffee, beans, milk products such as cheese, butter, and ghee in your nursing phase, it may get passed on to your baby and make him gassy.

Baby being overfed: If the baby is overfed, it can cause problems by overwhelming the baby’s gut leading to gas production. It is also thought that foremilk and hindmilk during breastfeeding has an impact on the production of gas. The foremilk is rich in sugars such as lactose and the hindmilk is richer in fat. Lactose overload may contribute to gas and irritability in babies.

Other factors: Several factors such as hormone regulation,  constipation and carbohydrate intake can also contribute to gas.

The only way a baby can communicate his needs and discomfort is by crying. Decoding your baby’s cries will require observation skills. He could cry because of hunger, pain, some discomfort, or gas – and there are tell-tale signs for each. When he cries due to gain pain, his cries will be sharp, frantic, and intense. Some other signs of gassiness in babies are mentioned below.

1. Arching the back 2. Squirming and grunting 3. Clenching the fists and straining 4. Lifting the legs or pulling up the knees towards the chest 5. Getting red in the face while crying 6. Not eating or sleeping well

Gas in Babies

Watching your baby struggle with gas pain can break your heart. But there are several ways in which you can help your baby and put him out of misery. Here are some home remedial measures that you can try to help relieve your baby from a gas problem.

1. Maintain Proper Position While Feeding Your Baby – While breastfeeding, keep the baby’s head and neck at an angle so that they are higher than the tummy. This makes sure that the milk goes down to the stomach and the air comes up. The same applies while bottle feeding. Also, tip the bottle such that the air rises to the top and doesn’t accumulate near the nipple.

2. Try the Feed and Burp Rule – Mostly, babies experience gas pain because of swallowing air while feeding. To prevent excess air ingestion by the baby, take a break every 5 minutes or so while feeding your baby and gently tap his back to help him  burp . This will allow the milk to settle in his stomach and the gas to bubble up.

3. Try the Distraction Technique – As mentioned earlier, a baby may swallow air while crying. The more he cries, the more he will swallow air. And this could lead to a gas build-up. So if your baby is crying, take him in your arms and distract him so that he stops crying. Make funny faces or sounds, dance, sing, or give him a new toy – try any distraction technique to stop him from crying and you will see less of the gas problem in him.

4. Massage his Tummy – Tummy massages are a great way to reduce gas build-up in babies. Lay the baby on its back and gently rub the belly in a clockwise motion and then run the hand down the curve of his tummy. This procedure helps the gas move easily through the intestines.

5. Give Simethicone – Simethicone is a medicine that is administered for gas problems. It works by combining the smaller gas bubbles in the stomach into a larger one that can be passed out easily. This drug also comes with artificial flavours and colours but a paediatrician should be consulted before using it.

6. Try Swaddling – Your baby may not like it, but try it because it helps. Wrap your baby tightly in a soft blanket or cloth so that his movement of limbs is restricted. It can help ease the problem of gas too.

7. Consider Probiotics – Probiotics such as yoghurt contain plenty of helpful bacteria that are good for the intestinal flora. Paediatric probiotics, when given for a period of several weeks, can ease gas and stomach problems.

8. Massage With Mustard Oil – Giving your baby a  massage with warm mustard oil then a warm water bath to relieve the gas problem. Massaging with mustard oil will also help the expulsion of gas from the intestine and the warm water will trigger drowsiness, thus calming him down.

9. Try Asafoetida – Add about two mustard grain-sized bits of asafoetida to warm water and feed it to the baby if he has gas. When asafoetida is given in small amounts, it is known to provide relief from the gas problem.

Prevention is better than cure so if you don’t want to see your baby suffering from gas pain, be careful when you breastfeed or bottle-feed him. In your nursing phase, avoid eating certain foods that cause gas such as dry fish and prawns, spicy meat dishes, nuts, pulses, milk products, and vegetables such as broccoli, cauliflower, etc. If your little one has started on solids, make sure that the foods you give to him do not cause gas.

Make sure that your baby gets some tummy time daily. Make your baby lie down on his stomach for a few minutes. The gentle pressure on the tummy will help him pass the gas comfortably and also strengthen his back and neck muscles. Pat the baby on his back often during the day while you hold and play with him. This will help in consolidating gas in their system and passing it out easily.

If your baby cries for long periods of time and shows unusual behaviour coupled with fever, vomiting, prolonged  crying and poor feeding, it’s best that you consult the doctor.

As your baby won’t be able to communicate that he has gas pain, it is important that you take note of the signs. The gas build-up, while common, can be troublesome if not taken care of and could cause severe discomfort and pain for the baby. So be prepared for everything and take good care of your little one.

how to overcome gas problem in babies

  • RELATED ARTICLES
  • MORE FROM AUTHOR

Baby Sunken Fontanelles - Causes, Treatments & Prevention

Baby Sunken Fontanelles - Causes, Treatments & Prevention

Ingrown Toenail in Children - Causes, Symptoms & Remedies

Ingrown Toenail in Children - Causes, Symptoms & Remedies

Mongolian Spots in Babies - Causes and Treatment

Mongolian Spots in Babies - Causes and Treatment

Flu in Babies - Causes, Symptoms, and Prevention

Flu in Babies - Causes, Symptoms, and Prevention

Baby Skin Rashes & Conditions - Types & Treatment

Baby Skin Rashes & Conditions - Types & Treatment

Low Body Temperature in Baby - Causes, Symptoms and What You Should Do

Low Body Temperature in Baby - Causes, Symptoms and What You Should Do

Popular on parenting.

245 Rare Boy & Girl Names with Meanings

245 Rare Boy & Girl Names with Meanings

Top 22 Short Moral Stories For Kids

Top 22 Short Moral Stories For Kids

170 Boy & Girl Names That Mean 'Gift from God'

170 Boy & Girl Names That Mean 'Gift from God'

800+ Unique & Cute Nicknames for Boys & Girls

800+ Unique & Cute Nicknames for Boys & Girls

Latest posts.

Cheetah Coloring Pages - Free Printable Pages For Kids

Cheetah Coloring Pages - Free Printable Pages For Kids

Snake Coloring Pages - Free Printable Pages For Kids

Snake Coloring Pages - Free Printable Pages For Kids

Flower Coloring Pages - Free Printable Pages For Kids

Flower Coloring Pages - Free Printable Pages For Kids

Leaf Coloring Pages - Free Printable Pages For Kids

Leaf Coloring Pages - Free Printable Pages For Kids

Gas Problems in Infants and Babies

Gas Problems in Infants and Babies

Almost all babies experience discomfort due to gas, regardless of being breastfed or bottle-fed. It can be a painful experience and the degree of pain varies for every baby. Some gassy babies don’t feel much discomfort, while others can get extremely restless, constantly crying till they’ve passed gas. Gas problem in babies is not necessarily a medical condition. It is merely because the baby’s digestive system is developing and is therefore sensitive.

We have a handy list of things below that will help you identify signs that your baby might be gassy and how to relieve your little one’s pain. The thing to remember though is that this is perfectly normal and most babies feel gassy at some point or another, so don’t worry dear parents. Keep reading to know more.

Signs that my baby is gassy

Your little ones have limited means when it comes to communicating their distress to you, mom. And when they are in pain we understand it can leave you feeling perplexed and helpless. But not to worry, it’s perfectly normal for every baby to feel some discomfort from time to time. There are, however, a few symptoms that you can watch out for to recognise gas problems in infants. Crying is the only way babies, especially newborns, communicate. And if your baby is crying, even after being fed and diaper change , the possible reason could be that the baby has a gas problem. Apart from that watch out for symptoms such as restlessness, arching of the back, lifting of legs, a bulging belly, flatulence, and belching.

Difference between colic and gas

Colic is when babies, usually at four weeks, cry incessantly, for three hours or more in a day, for no apparent reason. This normally happens in the evenings. These colic bouts peak usually between six to eight weeks, and can last for several months. Gas does not cause colic , as is mostly believed. However, the crying during the colic episodes can lead to a gassy baby as they inhale air while they cry.

What exactly causes gas?

There are multiple reasons why babies get gassy. First and foremost, gas is an outcome during the digestion of the nutrients in breastmilk or formula milk. This gas then gets trapped in the intestines, causing a build-up of pressure. And since the digestive system of babies is still developing, it becomes difficult to cope with this pressure. Other factors that contribute or worsen this problem is when babies inhale air while feeding – either breastmilk or bottle – due to improper feeding posture or poor latch. Another reason why babies inhale too much air is when they cry, which is just about always since that’s their sole medium of communication, mostly.

Which is why digestion problems in babies in the form of gas is close to inevitable. The first hurdle is recognising that your baby has gas issues. Look out for the signs as mentioned above in the symptoms.

Once you’ve notices the symptoms in your little nincompoop, there are several home remedies for gas problems in babies that one can try:

Leg movement

For newborns, lay the baby flat on their back, and lift their legs with their knees bent. Now, move them mimicking a bicycling motion. This helps relieve trapped gas.

Upright position

Hold the baby in an upright position and patting their back gently for burps.

Face down cradle

This is one of the most efficient techniques, not just when the baby is gassy but even when they are cranky or fussy. Cradling the baby with face down, elevating the head a little with adequate support, and pacing gently soothes them.

Tummy massage

Gently massage baby’s tummy, and gauge their reaction to know whether to apply or reduce pressure. It usually helps in calming them down and relieving some gas but discontinue if baby seems irritable.

Allow your baby to spend some time on their tummy. This can be done only for babies who can support their heads. It promotes movement and strengthens upper body muscles. When they elevate their heads, it helps release some of the trapped gas.

Maintain a food log

Keeping a track of what your baby eats, number of times, and at what intervals, it will help you understand the baby’s diet and observe a pattern, if there is any. If you breastfeed your baby, take a closer look at what you eat. Certain foods like processed milk products or caffeine may make it difficult for your baby to digest breastmilk. If you feed formula milk, try changing the brand to see if it makes a difference.

There is no need to visit the doctor for minor gassy problems. However, if the problem persists and the baby is in severe pain that does not seem to go away, then it is always advisable to seek medical guidance. Most doctors prescribe drops that can be given to babies, ensure to always check dosage with your doctor and administer accordingly.

If baby finds no relief then the doctor may recommend certain tests to rule out any major. We understand parents may feel helpless watching their little ones restless and in pain. But know that this is a natural occurrence and will improve with time. As your baby’s digestive tract grows and matures, the gas problem too will disappear.

  • How to do Baby Massage & its benefits?
  • How To Burp A Sleeping Baby?
  • Baby Poop Colour Chart
  • Diaper Bag Essentials
  • How to change a Diaper?

Useful tools:

  • Baby Growth Chart
  • Baby Development Milestones & Stages

Read more about Newborn Baby

  • Newborn Premature Babies
  • Newborn Sleep
  • Newborn Tips
  • Newborn Development
  • Newborn Feeding
  • Newborn Tummy Time and Play
  • Newborn Care
  • Skip to primary navigation
  • Skip to main content
  • Skip to footer

CHOC logo horizontal

CHOC - Children's health hub

brought to you by CHOC Children's Hospital of Orange County

How to Help Babies with Reflux

Published on: December 19, 2014 Last updated: May 17, 2023

Some baby spit-up is a fact of life for parents of infants, but a baby who spits up a lot or often may have reflux, a CHOC pediatrician says.

Link: https://health.choc.org/help-babies-reflux/

Reflux is a condition wherein food comes back up into the esophagus from the stomach. This sometimes happens to babies because their gastrointestinal tract is immature and has not fully developed yet, says Dr. Mary Ann Wilkinson , a pediatrician and chief of staff at CHOC at Mission Hospital.

In normal eating, muscles at the entrance to the stomach should relax to let food in, then close to keep the food in the stomach. However, in babies, the muscle can be loose and allow food back into the esophagus, she explains.

Common in babies, reflux can start as early as one to four weeks of age and typically resolves by six to 12 months of age, Dr. Wilkinson says.

She advises parents to discuss reflux with a pediatrician if the baby is spitting up so much that he isn’t gaining weight well and/or the baby is in pain.

Stomach acid coming up into the esophagus can give babies heartburn, which can be painful, Dr. Wilkinson says.

“The food and acid comes back up causing pain and crying,” she says. “They might arch their backs and not eat as much to try to reduce the pain.”

Dr. Wilkinson offers some reflux prevention and treatment strategies:

  • Avoid overfeeding babies.
  • Burp the baby well.
  • After feeding, sit the baby upright for 30 to 60 minutes so gravity can help keep the food in the stomach and reduce the chance it will come back up.
  • Breastfeeding mothers should abstain from gas-producing and caffeinated foods. These are passed to the baby through the breast milk and can trouble a baby’s digestion.
  • Formula-fed babies can be given a special formula that is easier to digest.
  • Formula can be thickened with a little rice cereal to make the food heavier and more likely to stay in the stomach.

If these treatments don’t work and the baby doesn’t improve or becomes worse, medication can be used, Dr. Wilkinson says.

Related Articles

Why you should consider becoming a blood donor

Why you should consider becoming a blood donor

Keeping kids and teens safe this holiday season

Keeping kids and teens safe this holiday season

Entendiendo el rol del estigma cultural a la hora de buscar servicios de salud mental

Entendiendo el rol del estigma cultural a la hora de buscar servicios de salud mental

Kidshealth newsletter.

Get “healthful” information for your family from the pediatric experts at CHOC. This monthly e-newsletter provides parenting tips on topics like nutrition, mental health and more. 

The guidance on this page has been clinically reviewed by CHOC pediatric experts.

US news and world report badge

Our pediatric healthcare system is dedicated to preserving the magic of childhood.

CHOC Inside

facebook

IMAGES

  1. Gas issues in babies

    how to overcome gas problem in babies

  2. 13 of the Easiest Ways to Relieve Gas in Your Baby

    how to overcome gas problem in babies

  3. How to relieve baby gas? What should you know and how to help? Intro guide

    how to overcome gas problem in babies

  4. How To Help Your Baby With Gas Pain (Tips from a Pediatric RN )

    how to overcome gas problem in babies

  5. The Best Home Remedies For Quick Baby Gas Relief

    how to overcome gas problem in babies

  6. Gas Problems in Babies

    how to overcome gas problem in babies

VIDEO

  1. gas problem remedy

  2. How can check gas problem in stove

  3. Gas Problem in Stomach

COMMENTS

  1. How to Get Rid of Your Baby's Gas

    Scrunch up their face. Be extra squirmy. Pull their legs up to their chest to try to relieve themselves. Gas discomfort is most common for their first four months or so; though, Dr. Sniderman says some babies will need help with their gas for their first year. How to get rid of baby gas

  2. Gassy baby: How to get rid of baby gas fast

    Gassy baby? Here's how to help your little one A gassy baby may have more burping or flatulence, or they may be screaming in pain from gas. They'll grow out of it as their immature system develops (usually around 4 to 6 months). In the meantime, to get rid of baby gas fast, reduce the amount of air your baby swallows before and during feedings.

  3. How to Help a Newborn with Gas

    Some positioning tips: Feed your baby as upright as possible; lay your child on their back and pedal their legs with your hands to help expel gas from below; if your child is awake after a feeding, place them on their belly.

  4. How to Help Relieve Gas in Babies: 15 Steps (with Pictures)

    1 Recognize the symptoms of gas. Although there is no evidence for a connection between colic, or excessive crying, and gas, some people may link the two conditions. [3] Identifying the signs of gas can help you quickly give your baby comfort. Symptoms of gas include: Pulling up her legs Clenching her fists

  5. Gassy Baby: Infant Gas Relief, Signs and Symptoms

    Stocksy Is your baby gassy? Here's what causes infant gas and the best treatments for baby gas relief. In This Article Why is my baby so gassy? Gassy baby signs and symptoms Gassy baby causes What are the best remedies for baby gas relief? What infant gas drops are safe and effective? Can breastfeeding make baby gassy? show all

  6. Infant Gas: Treating and Preventing Baby Gas

    Try these steps to prevent and ease the pain of gas: Check feeding position. "When you're nursing or bottle-feeding, try to keep the baby's head higher than her stomach," Shu says. "That way,...

  7. Gassy Baby: How to Help Your Baby With Gas

    You may want to rub their back to help keep them calm. On the back. Place your baby on the back while moving their legs as if they were cycling. Lying on the back is also the best sleeping position for a gassy baby (and the best and safest sleeping position for all infants until their first birthday). On the tummy.

  8. Gassy Newborn? Signs Your Baby Has Gas and How to Treat It

    Signs of a Gassy Baby If you suspect that your fussy baby is genuinely uncomfortable, and they keep squirming and pulling up their legs, they might have some gas that refuses to pass. The...

  9. Baby Gas: Relief and Prevention

    Another way to control air in a bottle is by using collapsible bags that eliminate air and reduce the risk of gas. Some babies seem less fussy with a change in nipple type. 3. Burp the baby. Burp ...

  10. Remedies for Baby Gas Relief

    Along the same lines as tummy time or the colic carry, gently holding a baby's legs and pulling them in and out in a bicycling motion can solve the problem mechanically by making the gas move through their bowels. You can sporadically push both legs into their tummy, slowly but firmly, and the farts should fly.

  11. Why is my baby gassy? Symptoms and treatment

    Home remedies such as moving their legs and raising their head may help soothe a gassy baby. When a baby has gas, tiny bubbles develop in their stomach or intestines, sometimes causing...

  12. Baby Screaming in Pain From Gas: Steps to Take

    Health & Well-Being Life Sex & Relationships Products & Gear What to Do If Your Baby Is Gassy and in Pain Is it gas? Gas symptoms Remedies Other reasons for crying Speak with a doctor...

  13. Gas in Babies

    Rub warm oil on the baby's tummy and gently massage. When to Worry About Baby's Gas The good news is that most gas issues resolve themselves over time. However, if your baby's...

  14. Got a Gassy Baby? 6 Tips to Relieve Infant Gas

    Alternate the baby's legs so that as one leg goes up, the other is coming down. Tummy massage: A baby who is struggling with gas might have a belly that feels slightly firm. You can help break up the gas by gently moving your hands in a circular motion around the infant's stomach while the baby is on its back.

  15. How to Get Rid of Baby Gas, Fast

    Tummy time, meant to help your baby build up neck and back strength, can also help get rid of baby gas by placing gentle pressure on the baby's stomach, Dr. Ferry says. For specific how-tos, check ...

  16. Belly (Abdominal) Gas in Babies

    Giving certain foods, such as cow's milk or juice, to your baby may cause your baby to have excess gas. Some people have problems digesting milk protein or milk sugar (lactose intolerance). But these problems are very rare in babies.

  17. 13 Ways to Relieve Your Baby's Gas Pains

    Here are the best ways to help your baby move that painful gas out. 8. Gas Drops. One of the most common baby products that are made to help with your baby's gas pains is gas drops. Gas drops contain simethicone which is used to break up larger gas bubbles into smaller ones making them easier for your baby to pass.

  18. Gas pain in children

    Don't combine anti-gas medicine with any other stomach medicine or antacid that also contains simethicone. Also, avoid simethicone drops that contain sodium benzoate or benzoic acid.

  19. Gas and Bloating in Children: Care Instructions

    Try soaking beans in water overnight. Drain the soaking water, and cook the soaked beans in new water. This may help decrease gas and bloating. If your child has problems with lactose, avoid dairy products such as milk and cheese. Help your child try not to swallow air.

  20. The Best Home Remedies For Quick Baby Gas Relief

    Tummy time is another option. Yes, tummy time is good for building back and shoulder muscles, but its a great way to help your baby pass gas. Do tummy time while supervised, lay your baby across your lap or on a tummy time mat and gently rub their back in a soothing motion. 10. Offer infant gas drops.

  21. Gas Problems in Babies

    Swallowing air: Swallowing air while being breastfed or bottle-fed is one of the main causes of gas build-up in babies. If a baby latches onto the breast incorrectly or if they suck on the formula bottle incorrectly, they might swallow air. This could lead to gas in him.

  22. Gas Problems in Infants and Babies

    There are multiple reasons why babies get gassy. First and foremost, gas is an outcome during the digestion of the nutrients in breastmilk or formula milk. This gas then gets trapped in the intestines, causing a build-up of pressure. And since the digestive system of babies is still developing, it becomes difficult to cope with this pressure.

  23. How to Help Babies with Reflux

    Dr. Wilkinson offers some reflux prevention and treatment strategies: Avoid overfeeding babies. Burp the baby well. After feeding, sit the baby upright for 30 to 60 minutes so gravity can help keep the food in the stomach and reduce the chance it will come back up. Breastfeeding mothers should abstain from gas-producing and caffeinated foods.

  24. Gas Problems in Babies

    0:00 / 1:51 Gas Problems in Babies - Causes, Signs & Remedies FirstCry Parenting 1.41M subscribers Subscribe Subscribed 3.6K Share 878K views 4 years ago #GasProblemInInfants #BabyGasProblem...