Thursday, March 24, 2011

Do Probiotics Help Colic?

For Colic, Probiotics Might Help

About 20 percent of all babies suffer from colic.

A 2009 study, found that colicky babies had gastrointestinal inflammation and traces of a bacterium in their guts that may have prompted it. Babies without colic had no inflammation and a greater diversity of beneficial bacteria. A 2010 study has similar results.

In response, there are an increasing number of kid-oriented supplements and foods such as baby formulas, yogurts, granola bars, and juices that contain probiotics. But, the American Academy of Pediatrics has released a clinical report concluding that probiotics and prebiotics don't yet qualify as wonder cures.

Using probiotics and prebiotics are safe, natural, and inexpensive so there is no danger in using probiotic drops in colicky babies. But, until there is more research it's not a definite cure.

4 comments:

Fiona Littleton said...

Very interesting, thanks for sharing, I will share with all the nannies I know!

Belinda said...

Wish i had known this with my first nanny job when i cared for colickly baby. it was horrible. never even thought it would be digestion or stomach related back then. very important information.

Anonymous said...

I had a lady in the grocery store tell me that she gave her son probiotics and it cures his colic right away. But, I think there is a big difference in tummy trouble and colic. Probiotics can help tummy trouble but colic, in my opinion, is a dynamic of issues. Needless to say, it never helped the baby I care for.

Denise said...

try these:
Chamomilla- a well-known homeopathic remedy for infant colic and teething.

Hylands Colic Tablets-Are little white tablets that can be dissolved in water and then given to the baby.

Corn Syrup-Mix a small amount of corn syrup in a spoonful of warm water and give to your baby. This usually calms a colic baby and will help them sleep better.