10 Tips to Reduce Colic

1. Motion Some families report relief with gentle movement, whether from a swing, a car ride, a ride in a jog stroller, or a parent’s arms.

2. Massage Baby massage in general and belly massage in particular. A warm bean bag can be a nice tool for this. Some babies are helped with the addition of one of the infant vibrating products during massage.

3. Changing mother's diet For breastfed babies, eliminating certain foods could help. Cow’s milk, eggs, nuts, or wheat are the most likely to make a difference – especially if there is asthma, eczema or allergies in the family.

4. Changing to a hypoallergenic formula For formula-fed babies, the switch is sometimes powerful.

5. Changing bottles Bottle changes can produce improvement in colic. In a recent survey, over 90% of Moms agree that Born Free® Bottles rank better in helping to reduce all colic symptoms compared to their current bottle system.

6. Changing feeding technique Switching from nursing at both breasts at each feed to prolonged emptying of one breast cut colic in half in one study. Sucking on a pacifier or thumb between feeds can help whether a baby is breast or bottle fed. Frequent burping after feeding can also help.

7. Soothing noise Heartbeat recordings, white noise machines, recordings of babies yawning, or the gentle voices of parents sshhing, humming, or singing a lullaby.

8. Herbal remedies Chamomile, fennel, and balm mint each decrease intestinal spasms and have been shown to reduce colic in some studies. But be sure not to give enough tea to decrease a baby's intake of milk.

9. Probiotics Compared to placebo, taking beneficial bacteria reduces crying for some.

10. Swaddling Being wrapped snuggly comforts some babies.

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