Home Remedies to Improve Digestion in Babies
It is quite common to see babies facing digestive problems like constipation, gas, and colic. When this happens, babies tend to feel distressed and discomforted. Therefore, it is important to address these concerns to ensure the overall well-being of the baby. When these discomforting issues persist, they can easily impact mood, sleep patterns, and the growth of the baby. Consulting a paediatrician is always recommended, especially when these issues are regular. However, there are many home remedies parents can rely on to alleviate the digestive problems in their little ones.
When home remedies are used judiciously and under expert guidance, tummy troubles can be reduced vastly. Home remedies are also useful for promoting better digestion in babies. When these issues are timely addressed, babies continue to grow normally and without any discomfort.
Given below are some home remedies that aid in digestion in babies:
- Probiotics
Probiotics are beneficial for improving digestion in babies because they contain live bacteria that promote a healthy gut microbiome. When probiotics are given to babies, they not only help in digestion but also overall well-being. The helpful bacteria in probiotics help break down the food. In this process, they produce essential nutrients and support the immune system.
To get maximum benefits from probiotics, it is necessary to introduce them to your babies naturally and gently. Some of the best probiotic sources include yoghurt and kefir. The standard procedure would be to use a small portion of unsweetened, full-fat yoghurt in your baby’s formula. Once the baby gets accustomed to the taste and texture of it, the amount can be gradually increased.
Before you start introducing probiotics to your baby, it is important to consult a paediatrician, especially if the baby has an underlying health condition or has a weak immune system.
- Herbs and Spices
For centuries, people have been using different kinds of herbs and spices to alleviate digestive issues, thanks to their natural properties. Fennel, for example, is beneficial for digestive problems in babies due to its carminative properties that aid in expelling gas and relieving bloating. For babies, you can consider preparing a fennel tea by adding crushed fennel seeds in warm water. However, make sure to give it in small quantities to babies.
Another useful herb that can be given to babies to help them combat digestive problems is ginger. Its carminative and anti-inflammatory properties make it a suitable choice to help ease nausea, colic, and gas in babies. There are different ways how ginger can be given to babies. You can either prepare a soothing ginger tea by adding a few slices of ginger in warm water or add a pinch of freshly cut ginger to the baby’s food.
Chamomile is another powerful herb that can be given to improve digestive discomfort in babies. The calming and antispasmodic effects of the herb provide a relaxing experience for babies. You can either add chamomile into the bath water of babies or brew a mild tea by adding chamomile in small quantities in warm water.
- Abdominal Massage
When you provide a gentle abdominal massage to babies, it helps alleviate problems related to gas and constipation. The gentle motions given to babies as a part of the massaging process help stimulate the digestive system whilst encouraging bowel movements. Performing a massage on babies is simple. First, lay your baby on its back on a flat surface. Next, apply a few drops of lotion or edible oil to reduce friction. Now, rub your baby’s tummy in a clockwise motion. Make sure you follow the digestive tract of the baby while doing the massage. Also, apply pressure gently using your fingertips. Do not make the mistake of applying excessive force.
You need to watch for cues while you are massaging the baby. The activity has to be stopped immediately if the baby is uncomfortable and distressed. If the baby displays symptoms like persistent abdominal discomfort, bloody stools, or fever, consult a paediatrician as they may indicate an underlying medical condition.
- Warm Baths
A warm bath is extremely important for babies, whether they are facing digestive problems or not. For babies with digestive issues, a warm bath helps relax the abdominal muscles, promotes bowel movements, and relieves gas. As the first step, fill the bathtub with warm water. Make sure you check the temperature before you immerse your little one. To get maximum benefits, you can add a few soothing ingredients like lavender or chamomile. The calming aromas these ingredients provide will alleviate discomfort whilst promoting relaxation in babies.
- Healthy Diet
Babies often develop digestive issues when they are given certain foods. If you are experiencing something like this with your child, then identify that food and stop giving it to your child. Highly processed foods and dairy products are often identified as the main culprits in this regard as they are hard to digest, especially for sensitive tummies. Solid foods, on the other hand, need to be introduced to babies gradually. While doing so, you constantly need to monitor your baby’s reaction.
It is not just the food; your baby also needs to stay hydrated to ensure proper digestion. So, make sure the baby drinks enough fluids. Some of the best sources of hydration for babies include breast milk or formula. You can even consider giving your baby small amounts of water, unsweetened fruit juices, and coconut water, especially when he/she is over 6 months old.
Babies can also be given fibre-rich foods as they promote smooth bowel movements. When your baby is old enough, consider giving fibre-rich foods like vegetables, pureed fruits, and whole grains. However, make sure the portion sizes of these foods are appropriate. Too much fibre in your baby’s foods can cause discomfort.
Tags: baby food, baby feed, baby milk, mother milk, ehealthy99, health tips, skincare tips, babycare, fibre-rich, grain food,Digestion, Digestion habits, Digestion tips, Digestion remedies
