Infant Digestive Health: Supporting Gas, Colic and Discomfort
Infant digestive health is a common concern for parents, particularly during the first year of life. A baby may appear unsettled after feeds, draw their legs towards their abdomen, pass frequent wind or cry for extended periods without an obvious reason.
Although mild gas and digestive discomfort can occur as the digestive system matures, it is important to understand the difference between common infant digestive changes and symptoms that require medical attention.
Common Signs of Infant Digestive Discomfort
Every baby is different, but signs associated with mild digestive discomfort may include:
- Frequent wind or flatulence
- Temporary abdominal bloating
- Drawing the knees towards the abdomen
- Becoming unsettled during or after feeding
- Grunting or appearing uncomfortable before passing a bowel movement
- Short periods of crying that improve after burping or passing wind
These signs do not always mean that something is wrong. Babies are still learning to coordinate feeding, digestion and bowel movements. However, parents should seek advice whenever symptoms are persistent, worsening or affecting feeding and growth.
What Is Baby Colic?
Baby colic is a term commonly used for repeated episodes of prolonged crying or fussiness in an otherwise healthy infant. Colic often begins during the early weeks of life and generally improves as the baby matures.
A baby experiencing colic may cry intensely, clench their fists, arch their back or pull their legs towards their abdomen. Episodes often occur at a similar time each day, particularly during the late afternoon or evening.
Colic is not always caused by a digestive disorder. Hunger, tiredness, overstimulation, swallowed air and normal developmental changes may all influence crying patterns.