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Tiny tots’ happy gurgles are enough to make us forget our worries. However, their shrill cries throw us off guard and leave us feeling helpless. Are occasional tummy troubles the reason why your little ones throw tantrums day in and out? If so, you don’t have to sweat about it; we’ve got your back (and your baby's belly). Join us as we explore gentle home remedies to improve digestion in babies and bring those sunshine smiles back.
While babies can also face digestive problems, there’s no denying they can be disruptive for you and your little one. Addressing their digestive concerns is one way to bring back those cheers, but you might be wondering how. Though there's no magic potion, a few home remedies will help soothe your baby's digestive woes. These natural solutions are safe and often readily available, making them perfect for easing occasional discomfort.
From breastfeeding magic to calming tummy rubs, let's navigate quick home remedies to improve digestion in babies. You can also explore The Good Bug’s range of probiotics for kids to support their growth and development.
Natural tips to treat indigestion in babies and toddlers
Parents often wonder what causes digestive issues in babies, as they’re mostly fed milk and home-prepared purees. Well, the digestive systems of babies and toddlers are still developing, so they’re bound to experience different stomach issues. If your babies throw up frequently or have loose motions, know they might be suffering from indigestion.
A little care and a few handy tips are all you need to overcome these problems. So, let’s get to the core and experiment with the following natural home remedies to improve digestion in babies and toddlers.
Smart feeding
We often mistake our baby’s cries for a sign of hunger pangs and immediately start feeding them. Our motherly instinct to keep that adorable little belly full can actually become a problem. What if they cried for something else? Then, you might be overfeeding them, which can cause discomfort in their tummies.
Babies have natural hunger and satiety cues. Look for signs like rooting, sucking on their fists, or becoming fussy when they're hungry. Once they're satisfied, they might turn away from the breast or bottle, fuss with their latch, or seem disinterested.
As they grow up, introduce solid foods that are packed with essential nutrients to boost their gut health and digestion. However, do not overwhelm their systems with large portions; start with small amounts of new foods and gradually increase as they get comfortable with different textures and flavours.
Complement their diet with a kid-friendly probiotic from The Good Bug to enhance their overall gut wellness.
Warm compression
Wouldn’t a hug melt away your worries? Similarly, a gentle compress is all that it takes to calm your babies. Using a warm compression is one of the best home remedies to improve digestion in babies.
Take a soft washcloth and dip it in lukewarm water. Wring out the excess water and keep the cloth on your baby’s belly for 2-3 minutes. Repeat the process a couple of times to get rid of bloating and gas in their bellies. You can also use a heating pad as a warm compress, but make sure the cloth or pad is not too hot.
The warm compress can help relax the muscles in their abdomen, allowing trapped gas to pass more easily and bringing sweet relief.
Massage
We all love a little massage at the end of the day to loosen our muscles and calm our nerves. So do babies. As massage can ease discomfort and promote overall digestive health, it remains an effective home remedy to treat indigestion in babies and toddlers.
Place your baby on a soft surface like a changing mat or a towel. Using your fingertips, gently massage their tummy in a clockwise motion, following the natural direction of their gut. You can start around their belly button and slowly work your way outwards.
Using baby oil makes the massage experience smoother and more relaxing for your baby. If you choose to use oil, opt for a fragrance-free, hypoallergenic variety specifically designed for babies.
Feeding position
Did you know the way you hold your baby while breastfeeding also impacts their digestive health? For breastfed babies, a happy tummy often starts with a good latch and comfortable feeding position! If your little one experiences occasional acid reflux, an upright breastfeeding position can be a game-changer.
Try holding your baby in a more vertical position, cradled in your arms, with their head slightly elevated. This can help prevent milk from backing up into their oesophagus, which can contribute to discomfort.
Experiment with different breastfeeding positions to see what works best for both you and your baby. Some comfortable options include the cradle hold, the cross-cradle hold, or the football hold. These positions help ensure a good latch and proper milk flow, minimising air intake that might contribute to gas and bloating.
Probiotics
For ages, our ancestors have emphasised the importance of breastfeeding. Well, they were not wrong about its benefits. Breast milk contains a lot of probiotics or ‘beneficial bacteria’ that play a crucial role in supporting your baby's developing gut. They help break down food, create a healthy gut environment, and boost your baby's immune system.
So, how can you introduce probiotics to your baby? As mentioned, breast milk is packed with good bacteria that help populate your baby's gut with beneficial microbes. This is why breastfed babies often experience fewer digestive issues compared to formula-fed babies.
Yoghurt is yet another source of probiotics, but it’s not wise to introduce it to babies before 6 months of age. Consult your paediatrician before bringing new foods, including yoghurt, to your baby's diet.
New-born parents might also need a little extra boost for their gut health. The Good Bug’s probiotics are an excellent option for maintaining your gut flora.
Burping techniques
Wouldn’t you hold your baby and gently pat its back after breastfeeding? Why do you think we do that? It’s because air bubbles can get trapped in their little tummies, causing discomfort and fussiness. Making kids burp is another practical tip to improve digestion in babies. It helps release trapped air, preventing gas buildup and promoting smoother digestion.
Sometimes, babies don't burp immediately after you pat or rub their backs; it can take some time. However, do not be discouraged, and try different positions to see which works best:
- Over your shoulder: Hold your baby upright, their chin resting comfortably on your shoulder. Gently pat or rub their back with your other hand, working your way upwards from their lower back towards their shoulders.
- Sitting on your lap: Sit your baby upright on your lap with their chin resting on your hand and their body supported by your forearm.
- Over a pillow: Lay the baby on their tummy on a pillow and do the burping technique.
Homemade gripe water
While discussing home remedies to cure indigestion in babies and toddlers, homemade gripe water takes the centre stage. It’s a herbal drink made with ginger, chamomile, and fennel seeds to soothe digestive distress in infants. However, you must approach this remedy with caution.
Doctors do not recommend store-bought gripe water, but homemade drink can be a safer bet. Still, you must consult your doctor before introducing this herbal remedy to your babies, as some herbs can create unwanted side effects in them.
Bananas
Once your little one embarks on their exciting journey to solid foods, bananas can become a superstar in their digestive health toolbox. They are rich in fiber and promote healthy digestion in babies. Fiber helps add bulk to stool, making it easier for your baby to pass it comfortably. Bananas can be especially beneficial for babies who experience occasional constipation.
Moreover, the soft, smooth texture of bananas is easier for babies to swallow and digest. Their natural sweetness also makes mealtime more enjoyable for your little one. Here’s how you can use bananas as a home remedy to improve digestion in babies:
- Feed ripe bananas: The riper the banana, the softer it will be, ensuring easier digestion for your baby.
- Mash the bananas well: For younger babies, mash or puree ripe bananas to create a smooth consistency. As your baby gets older, you can gradually introduce small, soft pieces.
- Combine bananas with other healthy options: Bananas pair well with other healthy options like yoghurt, applesauce, or avocado, but remember to include them in your baby’s diet after 6 months.
Even though bananas are an excellent remedy for babies suffering from vomiting and diarrhoea, you must introduce them in moderation, as too much fiber can also cause tummy troubles.
Physical activity
Exercise isn't just about physical development; it plays a vital role in digestion too! Encouraging your toddler to move their body can help stimulate their digestive system, keeping things moving smoothly. But how can you keep your babies moving? Whether it's crawling, cruising, or dancing to their favourite tunes, getting those little bodies active can work wonders for their overall gut health.
You can also boost your toddler’s brain function with the help of Pretty Smart probiotic from The Good Bug!
Limit processed foods
Sometimes, we feel pity for our little ones, as they’re only aware of the taste of the milk, oblivious to an exciting world of flavours and delicious treats. During such emotional outbursts, we might be tempted to give them a lick of an ice cream, chocolate, or even store-bought cakes and puddings.
While convenient, processed foods often lack the fiber and nutrients needed for a healthy digestive system. Sugary treats, greasy snacks, and artificial ingredients can contribute to constipation, bloating, and even stomach upset in little ones. Stick to fresh fruits, veggies, and whole grains to fuel those happy tummies and promote a healthy gut!
Little ones bring endless sunshine to our lives, but sometimes, tummy troubles can throw a raincloud their way and ruin our peace. This blog has been your guide in suggesting simple, effective home remedies to soothe digestive woes in babies. A happy tummy means a happy face, and a happy baby brightens up your space!
And if you're ever looking for an extra dose of digestive cheer, The Good Bug is always here to help! We offer a range of high-quality, dietician-recommended probiotics for kids and adults. Visit our website to learn more about how our products can support your gut health and keep those sunshine smiles shining bright!
References
https://woodwards.in/blogs/tips-to-improve-your-babys-digestive-health/
https://gastroenterology.smileshospitals.com/ways-to-improve-your-babys-digestive-system/
https://www.vinmec.com/en/news/health-news/pediatrics/how-to-improve-your-babys-digestive-system/
https://www.medicinenet.com/how_can_i_relieve_my_babys_gas/article.htm
