Bloating is uncomfortable for anyone—but for babies, it can be especially distressing. When your little one’s tummy feels tight or swollen, they may cry, squirm, or refuse to feed. While mild bloating is common in infants as their digestive systems develop, frequent or severe gas can be avoided with a few careful habits. Here’s how to prevent your baby from getting bloat and keep their tummy happy and healthy.
1. Feed Your Baby Slowly and Calmly
Whether your baby is breastfed or bottle-fed, feeding too quickly can cause them to swallow air, which leads to bloating. Try to keep feeding sessions calm and unhurried. If you bottle-feed, choose a slow-flow nipple to regulate the milk flow. Hold the bottle at an angle so that the nipple is always full of milk—this reduces the amount of air your baby swallows.
For breastfeeding moms, ensure your baby is properly latched. A deep latch helps them draw milk efficiently without gulping in air.
2. Burp Regularly During and After Feeding
Burping helps release trapped air before it builds up in your baby’s tummy. Don’t wait until the feeding is over—try burping midway and again at the end of each feeding session. Gently pat your baby’s back while holding them upright against your chest or sitting them on your lap. Some babies may need to be burped more often than others, especially if they tend to gulp or feed eagerly.
3. Watch for Food Sensitivities
If your baby seems bloated after certain feedings, it could be a reaction to something in their diet—or yours, if you’re breastfeeding. Common culprits include cow’s milk, soy, or foods that cause gas, like cruciferous vegetables. Try eliminating one potential trigger at a time under the guidance of a pediatrician or lactation consultant. For formula-fed babies, ask your doctor if a gentler or hypoallergenic formula might help.
4. Avoid Overfeeding
It’s easy to assume a fussy baby is hungry, but sometimes they’re just uncomfortable. Overfeeding can stretch their tiny stomach and trap excess gas. Pay attention to hunger cues—rooting, sucking on fingers, or smacking lips—and stop feeding when your baby turns away or seems content. Smaller, more frequent meals can be easier on their digestion.
5. Encourage Gentle Movement
Tummy time, gentle leg bicycling, or lightly massaging your baby’s belly can help move trapped gas through the digestive tract. Try placing your baby on their back and gently moving their legs in a pedaling motion. This simple exercise not only relieves bloating but also strengthens their muscles and aids overall development.
6. Check the Feeding Position
Keeping your baby slightly upright during and after feedings allows gravity to help milk move smoothly through their digestive system. Avoid laying your baby flat immediately after eating—hold them upright for about 20–30 minutes to minimize gas buildup.
7. Know When to Call a Doctor
Occasional bloating is normal, but persistent swelling, crying, or vomiting can indicate a more serious issue like lactose intolerance or reflux. If your baby’s tummy looks hard, or they seem unusually uncomfortable, consult your pediatrician promptly.
Final Thoughts
A bloated baby can make any parent anxious, but with mindful feeding, gentle burping, and proper positioning, you can greatly reduce gas and discomfort. Every baby is different, so observe your little one’s cues and adjust accordingly. A calm, well-fed baby with a happy tummy means more smiles—and more peace of mind for you.
