15 Easy Ideas How to Help Your Gassy Baby Sleep
Having your little one experience gas pains can be so stressful! This is especially true when it comes to helping them get some rest! Are you wondering how to help gassy baby sleep?
If you struggle to get your baby to sleep through the night because of gas pains, here are 15 easy ideas that may help.
Idea 1: Bicycle Your Babies’ Legs to Relieve Gas Pain
This is an age-old trick that many parents have used when wondering how to help gassy baby sleep.
It can be quite successful in helping your little one find some relief from gas discomfort.
How do you bicycle a baby’s legs?
You only need a flat surface to lay your baby down on its back. Gently lift their legs up and down in a bicycling motion. Spend about 30 seconds each time.
You may have to do this several times before the gas is released. But it can be incredibly helpful in calming a fussy baby.
This also encourages blood flow throughout the body. This helps with digestion and nutrient absorption.
Bicycle your babies’ legs today for a calmer, more peaceful night!
Idea 2: Change Your Babies’ Feeding Angle to Give Gas Relief
When caring for a baby, one of the best ways to get them to get more restful sleep is to change their feeding angle.
Try positioning the baby in an upright or semi-upright position during feeding. This more upright angle can help reduce problems with gas and reflux.
Additionally, burping your baby frequently during and after feedings can help keep air from getting trapped. This trapped air can also contribute to gassiness.
Experiment with different positions. Keep trying until you find one that makes them feel comfortable.
It’s important to remember that every baby is different, and what works for one may not work for another.
Idea 3: Use Homeopathic or Over-the-Counter Gas Drops if Your Baby is Gassy
Many parents are turning to homeopathic or over-the-counter gas drops.
These drops can be administered directly into the baby’s mouth or added to their formula. They help reduce the air trapped in the baby’s stomach and intestines.
This can make a huge difference in relieving gas pain and discomfort.
Homeopathic gas drops are natural and contain no artificial ingredients. They are generally safe for use from birth onward.
Over-the-counter gas drops may also offer relief. Be sure to always read the instructions carefully before using any product.
Idea 4: Try Gripe Water to Treat a Gassy Baby
Gripe water is an all-natural remedy used for centuries to help soothe babies.
It contains herbs such as fennel, ginger, and peppermint. This mixture can help calm a baby’s digestive system and reduce gas.
Gripe water can be given before or after feedings or bedtime to help a baby sleep better.
While it is not a cure-all for gas issues, many parents have found that it helps their little ones get the rest they need.
Talking to your pediatrician before giving your baby gripe water is essential. Some ingredients may not be suitable for all babies.
Idea 5: Give Your Baby a Warm Bath to Ease Gas Discomfort
Giving your baby a warm bath can be a great way to help them sleep if they are experiencing gas pains.
The warm water and the soothing massage with bathing can help relax their tummy muscles. This can relieve some of the pain from the trapped gas.
Additionally, you may find that your baby enjoys being in the bath and spending time with you.
Make sure to use lukewarm water for safety reasons. Be gentle with their delicate skin when massaging them during the bath.
It is also important to dry your baby off thoroughly after their bath and dress them comfortably so they can sleep soundly.
Giving your baby a warm bath is an easy way to help your gassy little one get some much-needed rest.
Idea 6: Adjust Feeding Times and Amounts to Ease Baby Gas
A baby with gas pain can be challenging, but adjusting feeding times and amounts may help.
Start by noting when your baby seems most gassy, then adjust feedings accordingly.
For example, if they seem gassier in the evening, try reducing their last bottle or formula before bedtime. You can also adjust the amount of food you give them during each meal.
Overeating at once can produce more gas, resulting in bloating and discomfort.
Be sure to talk with your pediatrician if you have concerns about how much food your baby should eat.
With some strategic adjustments to their feeding schedule, gas may pass and help calm your baby to sleep.
Idea 7: Burp Your Little One After Feedings to Help a Gassy Baby to Sleep
Babies can swallow air while eating, causing your baby to feel uncomfortable and bloated. If you’re wondering how to help gassy baby sleep, consider burping or tummy time.
Hold them upright against your shoulder or across your lap and gently pat their back until they release any extra air.
If you’re having trouble getting your baby to burp, change your position or add a gentle rocking motion.
Letting your baby rest for a few minutes between burps may also help.
With practice and patience, you’ll be able to get your little one to sleep in no time!
Idea 8: Avoid Foods That Get Gas in Babies
When trying to get a baby to rest, avoiding foods that produce gas in babies is key.
It can be challenging to determine which foods may be causing the issue. Pay attention to your baby’s behavior after eating certain foods.
For breastfeeding moms, what foods might cause gas in babies?
For breastfeeding moms, certain foods can produce gas.
Dairy products, such as milk and cheese, can make gas in some babies due to the lactose content.
Other high-fiber foods such as cruciferous veggies can also be problematic. This includes broccoli and cauliflower, beans, lentils, and onions. Avoid foods considered gassy, like cabbage, Brussels sprouts, and garlic.
Caffeine and carbonated drinks should also be avoided as they can increase infant gas production.
Pay special attention to your diet if your baby is experiencing excessive gas or discomfort after nursing.
It may be helpful to keep a food journal to track which foods affect the baby’s digestion and make adjustments if necessary.
What foods might cause gas in babies who’re eating solid foods?
Certain foods can produce gas for those babies on solids. They might include the following:
Vegetables like broccoli, cauliflower, Brussels sprouts, beans, lentils, and legumes.
Dairy products such as milk, cheese, and yogurt can lead to gas.
Fruits like apples and pears contain natural sugars that can be difficult for some babies to digest.
Starchy foods like potatoes and rice can also cause gassiness in babies.
Parents must observe their baby after introducing each new food. See if it causes discomfort or gas. If so, it may be best to avoid that particular food until the baby’s digestive system is better able to handle it.
Talk with their pediatrician about other food options suitable for their age and health needs.
Idea 9: Find the Best Formula to Ease Baby Gas Relief
Switching to a different formula is one of the best ways to help a baby with gas get to sleep.
Different formulas can vary in ingredients.
Some may be easier for your baby’s digestive system to process than others.
If your baby is having difficulty sleeping, talk with your doctor about switching formulas.
They can help you find one that works best for your little one and helps them get the restful sleep they need.
What are some popular formulas? Some popular types of formulas include those that are lactose-free. Others might have added probiotics or prebiotics, or are made with organic ingredients.
Make sure the formula is approved by the American Academy of Pediatrics and meets all safety standards.
Idea 10: Try Different Types of Bottles or Nipples to Keep the Baby Gas Free
If your baby is having trouble sleeping due to gas, one of the first things you can try is different types of bottles or nipples.
It may be that the nipple on your current bottle isn’t a great fit for your baby’s mouth.
Another reason for an excess amount of air your baby swallowed is the flow of milk is too fast or too slow.
Experiment with different types and sizes of nipples. This can help you find one that your baby finds comfortable and easy to use.
You may also want to try different bottles, such as ones with collapsible bags, instead of rigid plastic ones.
This can help prevent gas or air bubbles in the milk.
Idea 11: Use Probiotics or Digestive Supplements
For babies to pass gas, try using probiotics or digestive supplements.
Probiotics are live bacteria that can help restore balance in the gut and reduce gas problems.
Digestive supplements can help break down food more efficiently. This will help to lessen the amount of gas produced.
Start off with small amounts of probiotics or digestive supplements.
Gradually increase over time as their body adjusts and gets used to the new supplement.
In addition, it may help if you give the probiotic or digestive supplement just after a meal. Doing so helps it work more effectively.
Idea 12: Keep Your Baby in An Upright Position For At Least 30 Minutes After Feedings
One way to help your baby get to sleep is to hold your baby in an upright position. Keep your baby upright for at least 30 minutes after feeding your baby.
This helps minimize the amount of air they swallow during feedings. An upright position can reduce symptoms of gas, such as discomfort and bloating.
You can accomplish this by keeping the baby in your arms. Or try placing them in a reclined seat or carrier.
Additionally, you can lay your baby down on its back. Keep your baby’s head slightly elevated as they sleep.
This is the best sleeping position that can help reduce the symptoms of gas. It can promote more restful sleep for your little one.
Idea 13: Massage Your Babies’ Stomach to Move Gas Through
Massaging the stomach area when your baby is gassy can help your baby sleep soundly.
The gentle pressure of baby massage can help relieve gas and comfort your little one.
It’s best to start with light strokes around the belly button and then move outward in a circular motion.
Going both up and down on each side of the abdomen.
You can also use your fingertips to press down on the abdomen at different points gently. This can help break up gas bubbles or trapped gas.
Make sure to be gentle but firm so that your baby feels calm, safe, and secure.
Massaging is an effective way to reduce gas pain to sleep peacefully.
Idea 14: Taking A Warm Bath Before Bedtime
If a baby has gas, taking a warm bath before bedtime may help them get to sleep.
This will help relax the baby and relieve any gas pains they may be feeling. Additionally, it can be calming and soothing for both the baby and parent alike.
The warm water helps to relax muscles, reduce stress, and ease tensions in the body.
Add some lavender essential oil to the bath water for extra relaxation benefits. After their warm bath, dry off your little one, and wrap them in a cozy towel or blanket.
Idea 15: Trying Some Natural Remedies Such as Fennel Tea, Chamomile Tea, Or Ginger Tea
There are natural remedies to help your baby with gas that can help soothe gas troubles. Fennel tea, chamomile tea, or ginger tea are all great options for a baby’s gas to pass.
Fennel helps reduce the production of gas in the stomach, while chamomile and ginger have calming effects.
Try giving some of these teas shortly before their bedtime routine starts.
Now let’s look at common questions parents have about how to help their baby sleep.
What’s the best sleep position for a gassy baby?
The best sleep position for a baby is on their back.
This is the safest position to help reduce the risk of SIDS. This position also helps to keep them more comfortable by allowing more air to circulate to them.
Placing an infant in a semi-upright position can also be beneficial. This upright position can help reduce the amount of gas they experience.
Placing a rolled-up towel or blanket beneath the mattress can create an incline. This will help keep your baby’s head slightly elevated.
What are the best ways to prevent gas discomfort a baby may feel?
The best way to prevent gas discomfort in babies is to ensure that their digestive system is functioning correctly.
This can be done by keeping the baby’s diet as simple and natural as possible. Avoid processed foods and introduce new foods gradually.
Try feeding the baby upright with burping in between each session.
Massaging the baby’s tummy in a clockwise direction can also help relieve pressure and promote digestion.
Finally, avoiding tight clothing around the waist can help reduce strain on the baby’s digestive system.
Taking these steps could be beneficial for babies who experience frequent gas pains and discomfort.
What are the top foods that cause gas pains for a baby?
Gas pains in babies are common and can make them uncomfortable.
Some of the top foods that might produce gas pains for a baby include
- Dairy products, such as milk, cheese, yogurt, and ice cream
- Cruciferous vegetables like broccoli and cauliflower
- Legumes such as beans, peas, and lentils
- Fruits like apples and pears
- High-fiber foods like whole grains and bran cereals
- Certain sweeteners like fructose or sorbitol
- Fried foods.
If your baby is experiencing gas pains, try avoiding these culprits or reducing their portion size.
Keep an eye on your baby after eating certain foods so you can identify which ones are causing their discomfort.
Additional Reading on How to Help a Gassy Baby Sleep
Want to continue learning about how to help your little one sleep with gas pains? Here are some reputable sites you might consider jumping to from here.
Mayo Clinic
The Mayo Clinic is a well-respected healthcare organization. This article provides information on the causes of gas in babies. It also gives tips on soothing a gassy baby and promoting better sleep.
American Academy of Pediatrics
The American Academy of Pediatrics is a professional organization of pediatricians. This article provides additional information on why babies can experience gas and how it can impact sleep. It also gives practical advice on how to alleviate symptoms.
WebMD
https://www.webmd.com/parenting/baby/colic-gas#1
WebMD is a well-known online health resource. This article provides a comprehensive overview of gas in babies. It includes common causes, symptoms, and strategies for relief.
Parents
https://www.parents.com/baby/health/gas-pain/
Parents is a website aimed at new and expectant parents. This article provides tips and tricks for soothing a gassy baby. It also gives tips for helping them sleep more comfortably.
Stanford Children’s Health
Stanford Children’s Health is a leading pediatric healthcare provider. This article provides a thorough examination of colic. It also looks at excessive crying in infants.
Ultimate Guide to Baby Sleep: Surprising Tips & Tricks for Success
If you’re looking for comprehensive information and guidance on baby sleep, check out this guide.
Exploring various aspects of infant sleep, the article delves into topics such as sleep patterns, sleep training methods, and creating a conducive sleep environment.
Discover valuable insights and practical tips to help your baby establish healthy sleep habits and promote restful nights for the entire family.
Let’s Wrap Up
Hopefully, with these 15 easy ideas, you can know how to help gassy baby sleep more peacefully.
It’s important to remember that every baby is different, and what works for one may not work for another. Be patient and persistent in your efforts, as challenging as they may be.
Once you’ve found a solution that works, you and your baby can (hopefully!) get a good night’s rest.