What to Do For Colicky Babies

While there aren’t any proven ways to cure colic, there are plenty of theories and things that have worked for parents in the past. As you’re looking for what might help your baby with its colic, remember that your baby’s colic is probably different than another baby and that yours will respond differently to potential cures. Just because a given remedy worked for a friend’s child doesn’t mean it will work for yours.

Because it often seems like colic is related to painful digestive processes, adjusting the baby’s diet can often relieve the symptoms. If you are breastfeeding your baby, this also means adjusting your own diet. For instance, dairy products are notorious for wreaking havoc on a baby’s digestive system. Spicy foods, onions, and cruciferous vegetables like broccoli and cauliflower are also good to avoid. A major change in diet should also be discussed with a physician or nutrition expert, as you want to ensure that you and your baby are getting all the necessary vitamins and minerals as well. If you are feeding your baby with a formula it can mean making sure that your baby isn’t allergic to the formula that you’re using.

While preventative measures may help or relieve symptoms over time, there are also some measures you can take while the baby is crying. Again, trial and error is the key. Some babies will respond favorably to light pressure in the abdomen area. You may find that other babies are most comfortable when lying on their stomach, on their back, or being held upright. 

Colic is often associated with passing gas or passing a stool soon after eating. Massaging a baby’s stomach can sometimes expedite the digestive process, as your fingers gently do some of the work that the baby’s digestive system is too weak to do. Also make sure that you remember to burp the baby regularly after feeding. Some people believe that colic can begin with just one poorly managed feeding time which can snowball into very difficult digestion for weeks.

Finally, remember that it’s your job to make your baby as comfortable as possible. Colic can be frustrating for parents because they feel like they are doing everything they can and their baby is still crying. You should feel comfortable in knowing that you are giving your baby all the love and attention it deserves. If you feel yourself getting too frustrated, pass the baby off to a family member for a few minutes. A little rejuvenation of your own will be a great service to the baby as well. Sometimes 10-15 minutes of quiet will give you the energy you need to continue caring for your child.