What does it mean if my baby breaks wind a lot?

Many babies break wind regularly. Sometimes, they smile at the same time but often, it also hurts. This is completely normal. The babies digestive system is not yet fully developed, which makes it easier for air to get trapped in their stomachs. But parents will often wonder: What does it mean if my baby breaks wind a lot?

Read about what excessive gas means, when it's nothing to worry about and when you should pay attention.

Why do some babies suffer from a lot of gas?

There are a number of reasons why babies often break wind. The most common cause is that they swallow air while feeding, possibly because the teat doesn't have the right fit or because the baby drinks too fast.

Gas can also be due to the actual feed. When it comes to bottle feeding, certain types of milk can cause a build-up of gas, but there can also be air bubbles in the bottle. Babies that are breastfed sometimes react to what you eat. Onions, cabbage and coffee can cause the baby to get gas.

Moreover, digestion is important as a baby's digestive system still is developing. Due to this, babies are sometimes more likely to get gas. Sometimes, it can help to let your baby drink slower, let him/her burp in between or try a different teat or bottle.

When do you need to worry if the baby breaks wind excessively?

Mostly, a lot of gas in babies is no cause for concern and goes away by itself after a few months. There are however, situations where you need to pay attention. If your baby cries a lot, pulls his or her knees up due to pain, sleeps badly or refuses to drink, you may want to investigate further.

If the stool is very thin, green or very hard, or if your baby isn't growing much, you may wish to consult your health visitor or GP. Excessive gas can be a sign of a food intolerance or hypersensitivity to cow's milk Trust your instinct, you know your baby better than anyone.

What can you do to reduce the gas your child suffers from

There are different methods to reduce the amount of gas your child suffers from. Lean the bottle a little when feeding so that the teat is always full of milk. The baby will then swallow less air. Use an anti-colic bottle (also called S-bottle) or an anatomical teat that limits the amount of air coming in.

Massage gently the baby's tummy using your palm. Massage in circles or move the baby's legs gently up and down. This helps to get rid of air that has got trapped. Do you breastfeed your baby? In that case, be careful with your own diet and try to avoid foods that can cause a lot of gas for a while. Small adjustments can quickly make a big difference. Often, you will notice that your baby calms down within only a couple of days.

What does your baby's diet tell you about his/her digestion?

What your baby eats makes a big difference to your baby's digestion. Breast milk is generally better digested than formula because it is precisely tailored to your baby's needs. A baby often gets wind because he/she drinks too quickly or swallows air.

In the case of bottle feeding, the composition of the milk is important: some babies are sensitive to certain proteins or fats found in some types of milk. If that is the case, it can help to change to another type. There are types that have been developed to reduce cramps and gas. Always pay attention to how your baby feeds and whether he or she has a reaction to the feed.

The feed therefore plays a greater role than you might think. The correct feed helps prevent discomfort and allows your baby's tummy to calm down.

Which types of feed may help against bloating in babies?

Babies with a bloated stomach need food that supports digestion and results in less wind. If you breastfeed your baby, it may help if you let your baby drink slower and more often, and with smaller amounts.

Is your baby bottle fed? In that case. select a feed that has been developed to prevent cramps and gas. These feeds often contain other proteins and fats that are easier to digest.

An anti-colic bottle with a valve makes it less likely to swallow air while feeding. In this way, your baby is less likely to suffer from a bloated tummy and will quickly feel more comfortable.

Do you want to know which bottle is best for your baby? See our bottles and discover which bottle can help your baby relax when drinking. Have your got questions about our products? Please feel free to contact us.