Gas
What Is Gas?
Gas is a normal byproduct of the digestive tract in the body. Gas is produced when bacteria in the colon break down carbohydrates that aren't digested in the small intestine. Gas can be uncomfortable for your child, however it is not usually harmful.
What Causes Gas?
Diet
Eating certain foods like beans, broccoli, onions, and carbonated drinks can increase gas production.
Swallowing Air
Eating or drinking quickly, crying, and sucking on pacifiers can cause a child to swallow air.
Inability to Digest Certain Foods
Certain foods are difficult to digest for some children. For example, some children have difficulty digesting lactose. Lactose is a sugar found in milk and other dairy products. This can lead to gas and other symptoms such as abdominal pain.
Symptoms of Gas
Stomach feeling and looking bloated
Belching (burping) and passing gas (farting)
Discomfort (due to trapped gas)
Managing Gas in Children (Without Medications)
Dietary Changes
Keep track of foods that can cause your child excessive gas and avoid them if necessary.
Feeding Techniques
If breastfeeding, ensure proper latching during breastfeeding to reduce air swallowing.
If bottle-feeding, try using vented bottles that minimize air swallowing.
Physical Activity
Encourage regular physical activity. Movement such as leg cycling in infants or tummy time can help stimulate digestion and relieve gas pain.
Managing Gas in Children (With Over the Counter Medications)
How it works: Simethicone helps break up gas bubbles in the gut, which can help relieve symptoms of gas.
Lactase Enzyme (for lactose intolerance)
How it works: If your child is lactose intolerant, lactase enzyme supplements can help children digest dairy products better, which helps reduce gas production.