Home > INFANT HEALTH CORNER

by Dave Foreman

In the past few weeks on my new radio program (streamed live M-F 12-1 PM EST on whnz.com), I have been receiving several questions about the use of supplements for infants. This has led me to start a new section of my newsletter titled "Infant Health Center". Each newsletter I will cover some of the more common issues we face with infants and how to handle those situations naturally. Our inaugural article is on Colic. Anyone who has had a child with colic will understand why: we need help, and fast.

Lucky for us, there are a few ways to go about reducing and/or eliminating this problem. I don't agree with the modern medicine approach of "just wait - he (she) will outgrow it." Let them stay at your home while your child is rigid like a board and screaming bloody murder. Maybe they will change their tune and have you look into some natural approaches. Here are the approaches I look into:

1. Supplements - This is one of the easiest areas to have an immediate impact on your infant. Herbs like chamomile, hyssop, caraway and even lemon balm have been used for centuries to relieve the gas, bloating and spasms that occur with colic. My favorites (I used them with my daughter) are fennel and chamomile. Chamomile is the easiest to use because it tastes good. Fennel has a licorice-like flavor and may be challenging to use-even though it works the best of all the supplements listed. Giving your baby an infant probiotic such as Natren's Life Start is also a great solution. For whatever reason, your baby might not have the right balance of helpful bacteria in his or her digestive tract. By adding an infant probiotic to your child's food, you can often resolve their digestive issues. Homeopathy may also be helpful. Cocyntal (Boiron) is a simple to use, already measured out homeopathic designed to relieve colic symptoms like gas pain and irritability.
2. Food allergies - Many infants have trouble digesting foods we think they should be able to handle. If you are breast feeding, try an elimination diet. Reduction in gas producing foods is a great place to start. Keep a journal of your diet and how the baby reacts. Often times our children will be sensitive to the same foods we are. It may take some time, but the process will be worth it. Babies fed with formula tend to get colic more frequently. If you are bottle feeding your child, try a hypoallergenic formula.
3. Prevent your baby from swallowing air - Good luck with this one. This may be another reason bottle fed babies have colic more than breast fed babies. Keep your baby in the right position and make sure your bottle doesn't contribute to the problem. Also - Burp your baby more frequently. You may not notice anything, but she (he) may!
4. Chiropractor - I know you must think I am crazy for this one, but if you have tried everything else and are still frustrated - do it! My daughter saw a chiropractor when she was 2 weeks old and it resolved a major digestive problem she was having. The technique used on your baby is not the same as you and I would receive. You will be amazed by the results.