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7 Tips to Help Soothe a Colicky Baby
Caring for a child with colic can be tiresome and frustrating, especially because nobody is totally sure what causes it. Although treating colic is often difficult, there are some proven ways to get relief. Here is my list 7 ways to help you and your colicky baby get a better night’s sleep:
1. Eliminate the Trouble Foods
Many new moms aren’t aware that the foods they eat can alter the milk they
produce for their infants. Because of this, it’s important to avoid the foods that
can irritate your child’s stomach. These foods include caffeine, lentils/beans,
chocolate, broccoli and cow’s milk. Temporarily removing these foods from your
diet can make your milk more palatable for your baby.
2. Massaging the tummy
When your child’s tummy is full of gas, a gentle massage can help calm your
baby and aid in releasing trapped gas. With your baby lying on her back, gently
massage in a circular, clockwise motion from the right thigh, around the naval
and down to the top of the left thigh. Repeat this a few times as the baby begins
to pass the trapped gas.
3. Allow enough time for feeding
Being the parent to a newborn comes with a lot of new responsibilities and with
all of your other obligations, it can be easy to rush your feeding times. This time
with your child can be one of the best opportunities to bond, so take it slow and
allow your baby enough time to eat, burp and begin to digest. I recommend
burping any time your child stops feeding to take a rest or after every ounce, for
those drinking from bottles.
4. Cultivate healthy gut bacteria
Research has shown that acquiring a healthy microbiome in the gut can benefit
those suffering from many childhood health issues, including colic. Try
supplementing mom and baby’s diets with a quality probiotic.
5. Correct Breastfeeding Technique
While breastfeeding, a proper latch can mean the difference between your baby
getting their fill of milk or swallowing a mouthful of air. Poor breastfeeding
technique can prevent your child from having good latch. If you feel that your
child may not be feeding as it should or that the two of you are struggling with
feeding in general, reach out to lactation consultant to help fine tune your
technique.
6. Chiropractic Care
You may not be aware, but many parents are now seeking chiropractic care as a
way to help their colicky babies. Recent research has shown that infants
suffering from colic had their crying times reduced in half after receiving care
from a chiropractor. Ensuring that your child’s spine and nervous system are
functioning at their best is an essential part in your child’s development and an
experienced pediatric chiropractor can help your child start off on the right foot.
7. Don’t be afraid to ask for help
Having a child with colic can be one of the most trying times for any new parent.
The constant crying often makes it difficult to bond with your child, but please
remember to reach out to friends or family for support if you feel like you need a
break. Your child needs you at your best and some times that means stepping
away for a few moments to collect yourself.
Most importantly, as with all matters regarding the health of your child, trust your gut. If for any reason you feel that something just isn’t right, don’t hesitate to
make an appointment with your doctor.
Please reach out to our office in Providence if you have any questions.
Yours in health,
Brett Murdock, DC
Murdock Family Chiropractic
(435)213-9582
555 W 100 N STE C
Providence, UT
84332
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