Coming into the world is a huge change for a toddler. Its digestive system, although ready for action, is still immature and sensitive. So it’s not surprising that in the first months of life, infants often struggle with various tummy ailments, such as colic, constipation and gas. Fortunately, there are proven ways to help alleviate these problems and support the proper development of the toddler’s digestive system.
Breastfeeding – the best start for the tummy
Mom’s milk is the ideal food for an infant. It contains all the necessary nutrients in the right proportions, as well as antibodies that protect against infections. It also supports the development of normal intestinal bacterial flora, which is crucial for digestion and immunity.
Why is breastfeeding so important?
- Composition perfectly matched to needs: Mom’s milk changes as the baby grows, adapting the composition to the baby’s current needs.
- Easily digestible proteins: The proteins in mom’s milk are easily digestible and rarely cause allergies.
- Protection against infections: The antibodies in mom’s milk protect the baby from gastrointestinal infections and other diseases.
- Support for bacterial flora development: Mom’s milk contains prebiotics that stimulate the growth of beneficial bacteria in the gut.
If breastfeeding is not possible, choose modified milk with a composition similar to breast milk, paying attention to the presence of prebiotics (e.g. GOS/FOS) and easily digestible proteins.
Correct feeding technique – the key to success
Even the best milk will not help if the toddler swallows air during feeding. That’s why proper feeding technique is so important:
- Make sure the baby is properly grasping the breast or pacifier.
- Hold the child in a semi-vertical position.
- After feeding, bounce the toddler to get rid of excess air.
Diet of a breastfeeding mother – what to eat and what to avoid?
What a breastfeeding mom eats affects the composition of the milk and can affect the baby’s tummy.
Recommended products:
- Vegetables and fruits (preferably cooked or roasted)
- Lean meat and fish
- Whole grain cereal products
- Dairy
Products to avoid or limit:
- Coffee, strong tea
- Alcohol
- Flatulent products (cabbage, broccoli, onions)
- Hot spices
- Sweets
- Highly processed products
Remember that every child is different. Observe your toddler’s reactions to particular products and, if necessary, eliminate those that cause discomfort.
Belly massage – gentle help for the intestines
A gentle tummy massage can provide relief from ailments such as colic, gas and constipation.
How to massage a baby’s tummy?
- Lay the baby on its back.
- Warm up your hands.
- Gently massage the tummy in a clockwise, circular motion.
- You can also do the “bicycle” movement with the toddler’s feet.
The massage should be pleasant for the child. If your baby is crying or restless, stop the massage.
Warm compresses – soothing a sore tummy
Heat has a relaxing and pain-relieving effect. You can put a warm (but not hot!) thermoform or a tetanus diaper heated with an iron to the baby’s tummy.
Bathing – relaxation for body and soul
A warm bath has a calming and relaxing effect, which can help relieve tummy troubles. Adding herbs with a relaxing effect, such as chamomile or lemon balm, to the water can enhance this effect.
Probiotics – support for bacterial flora
Probiotics are live cultures of bacteria that populate the intestines and benefit their function. They can help relieve ailments such as colic, constipation or diarrhea. Probiotics for babies are available as drops or sachets. Consult your doctor before using them.
When to go to the doctor?
In most cases, tummy troubles in infants are a natural occurrence and resolve on their own. However, if you observe the following symptoms in your baby, be sure to contact your doctor:
- Persistent crying that cannot be calmed
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea with blood or mucus
- Fever
- Lack of appetite
- Weight loss
- A bloated, hard tummy
Summary
Tummy ailments in infants are a common problem that can cause a lot of worry for parents. Fortunately, there are many proven ways to help support your baby’s delicate tummy. Remember to breastfeed or choose the right modified milk, proper feeding technique, tummy massage, warm compresses and probiotics. When in doubt, always consult your doctor.
