Colic is a very distressing time for the baby and caregiver. Experts have pinned this terrible discomfort some babies face to causes such as immature digestive and nervous systems, allergies, hypersensitivities and maternal anxiety, to name a few. Many theories but nothing conclusive to support them.




A) Immature gut, immature nervous system - this theory suggests that since the baby's stomach hasn't handled food before, it is possible that it is not mature enough at this juncture. On the other hand, the nervous system could be ill-prepared at managing everything, including food that is passed through the gut. Nothing proven here so it is only a plausible cause.




B) Incorrect feeding - a hungry baby is different from a colicky one, mainly because a lack of milk will lead to hunger but not colic. Another finding indicates that colic is about as common in breast-fed and bottle-fed babies. There are also suggestions pointing to improper feeding postures, feeding too fast or too slowly as contributors to this problem. In few cases making the 'corrections' seems to improve the condition, but not all. Logically, formula should get in with the least amount of air to prevent wind build-up. Occasionally checking the teats, bottles, baby's position and ensuring the baby is burped will certainly benefit your baby.




C) Anxious parents, anxious babies - parents are sometimes blamed for transferring their anxiety to their babies. It can well be the reverse - its the colic that is making the parents tense. So that will simply translate to the need of having to take care of yourself and the baby. Rest assured colic is not a by-product of your personality. No one really knows why some babies get it and others don't seem to be bothered by it. It is a myth to think that colic is brought on by the psychological state of the mother.




D) Colic occurs within a few minutes to an hour after feeding and seems to get worse with food. Offer smaller feedings on a frequent basis (try halving the quantity and twice as often). Digesting smaller quantities minus the intestinal discomfort is a welcome.




E) Formula sensitivity ranks high on the list of infant colic. Seek your doctor's advice especially if there is a family history. There is a whole range of formula milk out there but before making a switch of brand try switching to smaller, frequent feeds first. Maybe the problem is the lactose overload which can be overcome with a change in the feeding pattern.