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Q.

What causes infant gas?

Related Topics: Flatulence, Infant
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A.

Gas is generally caused by: 

  • Swallowed air
  • Normal breakdown of undigested foods.

Since babies cry more than older children or adults, they naturally swallow more air and have more gas. They also have a harder time getting the gas out of their tummies than older babies, children, and adults.

What can you do to make it easier for your baby?

First, realize that your child may not necessarily be as uncomfortable as you think she is. “If the baby is generally happy and only fusses for a few seconds while passing gas, that’s a sign that it’s normal,” says Jennifer Shu, MD, a board-certified pediatrician in Atlanta and the author of Food Fights:Winning the Nutritional Challenges of Parenthood Armed with Insight, Humor, and a Bottle of Ketchup, published by the American Academy of Pediatrics.

“Even if they turn red and make noise, it doesn’t mean that it bothers them. If they’re happy in between episodes and not too distressed during them, there’s probably nothing wrong,” Shu says.

Don’t mistake gas for infant colic. Gas does not cause colic, although colicky babies may swallow a lot of air while crying, which can bring on gas. And while gas can cause discomfort, it doesn’t cause the inconsolable distress and crying that are symptoms of colic.

This answer should not be considered medical advice...down arrowThis answer should not be considered medical advice and should not take the place of a doctor’s visit. Please see the bottom of the page for more information or visit our Terms and Conditions.up arrow

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