FORT WASHINGTON, Pa. -- Three out of four babies suffer from infant gas, making life unpleasant for both babies and their new parents. Renowned pediatrician and co-author of The Baby Book (revised edition, Little, Brown 2003), James Sears, MD, offers his tips to parents on how to help prevent and minimize the effects of infant gas:
Let Less Air In
Sears often advises new parents to pay particular attention to the position of the baby's mouth while he or she is feeding. "If breastfeeding, be sure that the baby's lips form a good seal far back on the areola to minimize the amount of air taken in the mouth," said Sears. "If bottle-feeding, be sure the baby's lips are positioned on the wide base of the nipple, not just on the tip, to avoid taking in air along with the milk."
Safely Medicate
Infants' Mylicon® Gas Relief Drops are the No. 1 choice of pediatricians to remedy infant gas. They are not absorbed into the baby's system and contain no sweeteners or alcohol. "It's important to first have a doctor determine that there are no serious problems," said Sears. "But for most cases of infant gas, Mylicon goes a long way, and because it's not absorbed, it can be safely used at every feeding*, if necessary."
Use the 45-degree Rule
Sears recommends that parents tilt the bottle at a forty-five degree angle while feeding so that air rises to the top of the bottle. "I also recommend keeping the baby upright during feeding and for a half-hour following a feeding to help minimize the gas build-up in the baby's digestive tract," said Sears.
Eliminate Allergens
Although milk is a good source of nutrition for nursing moms, Sears points out that cow's milk protein allergies are common triggers for gastrointestinal problems in breastfed babies. Sears also recommends that nursing moms try to eliminate foods that commonly cause allergic reactions, such as chocolate, shellfish, berries, eggs and nuts.
Flesh Out Formula Choices
Bottle-fed babies may be intolerant of certain types of formulas. "Not all formulas are alike," said Sears. "If one is causing your baby discomfort, there are plenty of alternatives -- just check with your pediatrician."
* Use only as directed. Do not exceed 12 doses per day.
Source: Mylicon® Gas Relief
