Description

What is colic?
Colic (Spasmodic pain which comes and goes) is a common and frustrating condition where babies have periods of frequent, inconsolable crying.
All babies are diagnosed with colic in their first weeks of life.
What causes colic?
The reasons for infantile colic are multifactorial
Some scientists think that the condition is related to problems with gut motility and an imbalance in the microbiota of the baby’s immature gastrointestinal tract.
Others think that hypersensitivity to the new sights and sounds that an infant experience may also be a factor
Gut motility = a good gut feeling
Gut motility is a term that describes the contractions of the muscles that are responsible for breaking down and moving food from the stomach, through the intestines, to the bowels.
Excessive gas and lead to colic, constipation or regurgitation.
The role of gut bacteria in colic
Growing evidence links colic to infants’ gut bacteria. Clinical studies have shown that babies with colic have lower counts of good bacteria as well as increased number of harmful bacteria in their digestive tracts and greater levels of inflammation. This can cause all sorts of digestive problems, including colic. According to multiple studies, a certain strain of probiotics can help reduce crying time, especially in breastfed.
Symptoms of Baby Cholic
A baby under the age of five months Frequent and prolonged periods of crying, fussing, or irritability The crying usually occurs around the same time each day and often starts in the afternoon or evening. Colic typically peaks at approximately six weeks of age and resolves by four months.
Additional symptoms that occur during crying periods include: Excessive gas, A red face, Bunched up fists, Legs pulled up to the chest, Cries that sound angrier or painful than normal.
Symptoms of colic
child has a fever, child is vomiting frequently, child seems lethargic and does not want to eat, child does not gain weight properly; the problems continue past four months of age.
Key facts about colic
One in four babies are diagnosed with colic, Colic usually ends around the fourth month, A colicky baby is not an unhealthy baby, The crying is often worse in the evening hours, but can be present at other times as well. The cause of colic is multifactorial and not fully understood. Colicky infants have been seen to have a lower number of certain type of healthy gut bacteria. Colic usually reaches its peak at the age of six to eight weeks
Ways to sooth colicky babies
Cuddle, rock, or gently bounce the baby, Massage the belly with gentle, clockwise strokes to release gas, take the baby out for a ride in a stroller or car, use a white noise machine. Use angled baby bottles to reduce air swallowing and gas If breastfeeding, remove dairy, soy and other allergens from the mother’s diet, Prevent any exposure to tobacco
2. Mode of Action: Lactobacillus reuteri exerts its effects primarily through its influence on the gut microbiota. It helps maintain a balanced microbial environment by promoting the growth of beneficial bacteria and inhibiting the proliferation of harmful microorganisms. L. reuteri produces antimicrobial substances, such as bacteriocins and organic acids, which contribute to its ability to combat pathogenic bacteria. Additionally, it may modulate the immune response in the gut and enhance the gut barrier function, thereby promoting overall gastrointestinal health.
3. Indications: Lactobacillus reuteri is indicated for:
• Digestive Health: It may help alleviate symptoms of gastrointestinal discomfort, such as bloating, gas, and irregular bowel movements.
• Immune Support: L. reuteri’s influence on gut-associated immune cells may contribute to overall immune system modulation.
• Infant Health: L. reuteri supplements are sometimes recommended to support the development of a healthy gut microbiota in infants.
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4. Side Effects: Lactobacillus reuteri is generally considered safe for most individuals when taken within the recommended dosage. However, some individuals may experience mild and temporary side effects, including:
• Gastrointestinal Disturbances: Some people might experience mild gastrointestinal discomfort, such as bloating or increased gas, when first starting the supplement. These symptoms usually subside as the body adjusts to the probiotic.
5. Contraindications: Lactobacillus reuteri is not recommended for individuals who have:
• Immunocompromised Conditions: People with severely compromised immune systems should consult a healthcare professional before using L. reuteri or any probiotic supplements.
• Allergies or Sensitivities: Individuals with known allergies or sensitivities to dairy or other ingredients in the supplement should avoid its use.
6. Drug Interactions: Lactobacillus reuteri is not known to have significant interactions with medications. However, especially if you are taking immunosuppressive drugs or other medications that affect the immune system.