Swaddling is a technique of wrapping a newborn baby snugly in a blanket or a swaddle wrap. It can help to calm down fussy babies and provide comfort by mimicking the feeling of being in the womb. This is why it’s considered a great remedy for newborn gas relief. To swaddle, first lay a blanket flat and fold the top corner down. Place your baby on the blanket with their head above the folded corner and their arms tucked in. Wrap the left side of the blanket across their body, tucking it under their right arm. Wrap the right side of the blanket over their left arm, tucking it under their left side. Finally, tuck the bottom of the blanket around their feet. Also Read: Newborn Gas Relief Home Remedies in 2023
Bicycle Legs:
Bicycle legs refer to gently cycling a baby’s legs as if they’re riding a bicycle. This helps to stimulate their digestive system and move any gas bubbles through their body. To perform bicycle legs, lay your baby on their back and hold both of their legs by the ankles. Gently lift their legs up and down, simulating the motion of riding a bicycle. This exercise can be done for a few minutes, several times a day to relieve gas discomfort.
Gripe Water:
Gripe water is an over-the-counter liquid remedy for digestive issues in infants. It contains herbs such as fennel, ginger, and chamomile, which are known for their soothing properties. Gripe water can help to soothe a baby’s digestive system and relieve gas pain. It is typically given to babies in small doses using an oral syringe, following the instructions on the packaging.
Warm Bath:
A warm bath can help to relax a baby’s muscles and soothe any gas discomfort. Fill a tub with warm water (not hot) and place your baby in it for 10-15 minutes. The buoyancy of the water can help to relieve gas bubbles and ease any stomach discomfort.
Pacifier:
Sucking on a pacifier can help to relieve gas in babies by creating a vacuum that helps to move the gas bubbles through their digestive system. It can also help to soothe a fussy baby and provide comfort.
Car Ride:
The gentle rocking motion of a car can help to soothe a baby and relieve gas discomfort. Take your baby for a gentle drive, making sure to buckle them into a car seat for safety.
White Noise:
White noise can help to calm a fussy baby and create a soothing environment. There are various white noise machines available, or you can use a mobile app that plays white noise sounds.
Fennel Seeds:
Fennel seeds have been used for centuries as a natural remedy for digestive issues, including gas relief in babies. Boil 1/4 teaspoon of fennel seeds in a cup of water for 10 minutes, strain, and let cool. Offer a small amount of the cooled tea to your baby using an oral syringe, following the instructions on the packaging.
Newborn gas is a common issue that can cause discomfort and distress for both baby and parents. However, there are various home remedies that can provide relief and comfort. From swaddling and bicycle legs to gripe water and warm baths, there are many options available. Additionally, using pacifiers, car rides, white noise, fennel seeds, infant massage, probiotics, colic holds, tummy time, gas drops, and chamomile tea can all help to soothe a baby and relieve gas discomfort. It is important to always consult with a pediatrician before trying any new remedies and to use caution and follow safety guidelines.
Anise Seeds:
Anise seeds have been used as a natural remedy for digestive issues, including gas relief in babies. Boil 1/4 teaspoon of anise seeds in a cup of water for 10 minutes, strain, and let cool. Offer a small amount of the cooled tea to your baby using an oral syringe, following the instructions on the packaging. Anise seeds have a licorice flavor and can help to soothe a baby’s digestive system, providing relief from gas discomfort.
Infant Massage:
Infant massage can help to soothe a baby and relieve gas discomfort. To perform an infant massage, warm some baby oil or lotion in your hands and gently rub your baby’s tummy in a clockwise direction. You can also use gentle pressure to massage the baby’s chest, legs, and feet. This can help to stimulate the digestive system and move any gas bubbles through their body.
Probiotics:
Probiotics are beneficial bacteria that can help to balance a baby’s gut microbiome and improve digestive health. There are various probiotic products available for infants, including drops, powders, and foods. Consult with a pediatrician before introducing probiotics to a baby’s diet to ensure that it is safe and appropriate for their individual needs.
Colic Hold:
The colic hold is a technique for holding a baby that can provide comfort and relief from gas discomfort. To perform the colic hold, hold your baby against your chest with their tummy on your forearm and their legs bent up towards their chest. The pressure on their tummy can help to relieve gas and soothe discomfort.
Tummy Time:
Tummy time is an important activity for newborns, helping to strengthen their neck and shoulder muscles and prevent flat head syndrome. However, it can also help to relieve gas by promoting the passage of gas bubbles through the digestive system. Place your baby on their tummy for a few minutes several times a day, making sure to supervise them and ensure that they are safe.
Gas Drops:
Gas drops are over-the-counter remedies designed to relieve gas discomfort in babies. They contain simethicone, an ingredient that helps to break up gas bubbles in the digestive system. Always follow the instructions on the packaging when administering gas drops to a baby and consult with a pediatrician if you have any concerns.
Chamomile Tea:
Chamomile tea is a natural remedy that can help to soothe a baby’s digestive system and relieve gas discomfort. Boil 1 tea bag or 1/2 teaspoon of dried chamomile flowers in a cup of water for 10 minutes, strain, and let cool. Offer a small amount of the cooled tea to your baby using an oral syringe, following the instructions on the packaging. Chamomile tea has a mild, soothing flavor and can help to calm a fussy baby and relieve gas discomfort.
