Colic in children: the most effective dietary supplements

Infant colic is a common source of concern for parents, characterized by episodes of prolonged and unexplained crying in otherwise healthy infants. Although this condition is generally benign, it can cause significant stress for families. Here is an overview of colic, its potential causes, and approaches to managing it.

What is colic?

Colic is defined as episodes of intense and prolonged crying, occurring for at least three hours a day, three days a week for three weeks, in infants younger than five months. These often inconsolable cries frequently appear late in the day and affect both breastfed and formula-fed babies. About 20% of infants are affected, with symptoms typically peaking around six weeks before decreasing by three to four months of age.

Why does colic occur?

The exact cause of colic remains unknown, although several hypotheses have been proposed. Gastrointestinal factors, such as an imbalanced gut microbiota or low-grade inflammation, play a role. Infants with colic often show reduced diversity of beneficial bacteria such as bifidobacteria and an increase in gas-producing bacteria. In addition, increased intestinal permeability in babies may allow macromolecules to pass into the bloodstream, contributing to discomfort. Other possible causes include aerophagia, behavioral factors such as overstimulation, or food sensitivities.

Treatment and management

Management of colic mainly relies on supporting parents and measures aimed at soothing the baby’s discomfort. Reassuring parents is essential, as these crying episodes, while stressful, have no long-term consequences. Here are some common approaches: • Probiotics: Studies have shown that Lactobacillus reuteri DSM 17938 can significantly reduce crying time, particularly in breastfed infants. These probiotics rebalance the gut microbiota and reduce inflammation. • Dietary modifications: For formula-fed infants, partially hydrolyzed or low-lactose formulas may be beneficial, although their effectiveness varies. For breastfeeding mothers, a low-allergen diet, such as eliminating dairy, can be tried. • Soothing techniques: Methods such as rocking, swaddling, or using white noise can help calm babies. Although their effectiveness varies, they carry no risk. • Herbal remedies: Certain herbs such as fennel and chamomile have shown promising effects in reducing crying, but their use should be supervised by a healthcare professional.