Introduction: 

Relieve gas in babies sounds easy, right? But if you’re a sleep-deprived parent holding a crying baby at 2 a.m., you know it’s not that easy. Gas and bloating in babies can be a huge pain, and often, the reasons behind it aren’t so obvious.

Could it be something baby ate? Or something mom ate while breastfeeding? Is your formula to blame? And most importantly what can you do right now to make your baby feel better?

Let’s break down the doctor approved solutions for relieve gas in babies fast, understand the role of breastfeeding (especially milk),home remedies for gas relief in babies, Gas relief formula milk and how you can prevent gas in the future.

1. Understanding Baby Gas: What’s Normal and What’s Not.

It’s perfectly normal for babies to pass gas 13-21 times a day. Their digestive system is still developing, and they often swallow air while crying or feeding.

Common signs of gas in babies:

• Frequent crying or fussing
• Discomfort
• Tummy tucking
• Legs pulled toward the belly
• Trouble sleeping
• Bloating or flatulence

Not all gas needs treatment but when it causes visible discomfort, that’s when you step in.

“Babies aren’t born with fully developed guts so gas is really just a part of growing up,” says Dr. Lena Matthews, a pediatric gastroenterologist.

2. Breast milk and gas: Is mom’s diet a problem?

Breast milk is often called “liquid gold,” and rightly so. It’s the most natural and digestible food for newborns. However, what a mother eats can pass into the milk, potentially causing gas in sensitive babies.

Limiting gas producing foods while breastfeeding:

• Cruciferous vegetables like broccoli, cabbage, cauliflower
• Onions and garlic
• Beans and lentils
• Carbonated drinks
• Dairy (with lactose sensitivity in some babies)

It’s not always necessary to cut them out, but if your baby is unusually gassy after feeding, try eliminating one food at a time for a week and observe.

“When in doubt, go easy for a few days and monitor your baby’s reaction,” suggests Dr. Ayesha Malik, a pediatric nutritionist.

3. Formula milk and Gas problems: Choosing the Right One for Your Baby

Formula milk and gas problems are related in most cases as not every baby thrives on your first formula. Some formulas can be difficult to digest, causing more gas and bloating.

If your baby is formula fed and has frequent gas, consider switching to:

• Hydrolyzed or partially hydrolyzed formulas: The proteins are broken down, making them easier on the stomach.
• Anticolic or comfort formulas: These are designed with less lactose and modified proteins to reduce gas.
• Soy-based formulas: For babies with milk sensitivities (consult a doctor first).

Gas relief formula milk

Here is the popular gas relief formula milk options:

• Enfamil Gentlease
• Similac Pro-Total Comfort
• Gerber Good Start Soothe

Always talk to your pediatrician before switching, especially if your baby is under 3 months old.

4. Doctor Approved Home Remedies for gas relief in babies fast

You don’t always need medicine to relieve gas in babies. Try these safe, time tested home remedies for gas in babies to give your little one quick relief.

1. Burping After Each Feed – Natural Home Remedies for Gas Relief in Babies

Hold your baby upright and gently pat his back to release trapped air. For breastfed babies, burp after each breast; for bottle-fed babies, burp every 2-3 ounces.

2. Bicycle Leg and Abdominal Massage for Gas Relief in Babies

Lie your baby on their back and gently move their legs in a pedaling motion. Massaging the abdomen clockwise with warm hands or oil helps to speed up digestion and reduce discomfort.

3. Warm Bath – An Easy Home Remedy for Gas Relief in Babies

A gentle warm bath relaxes the abdominal muscles, improves circulation, and often helps babies pass gas naturally.

4. Tummy Time for Gas Relief in Babies

Supervised tummy time strengthens baby’s core muscles, reduces gas buildup, and supports healthy digestion.

5. Swaddling and Gentle Rocking – Relaxation-Based Gas Relief in Babies

Swinging gives babies a sense of security, while gentle rocking soothes fussiness and promotes the passage of gas.

6. Feeding Position Adjustment – Prevents gas buildup in babies.

Keep your baby’s head slightly elevated during feedings to minimize air swallowing. A slow-flow nipple for bottle feedings can also reduce excess gas.

7. Use a warm compress as a home remedy for gas in babies

Place a warm (not hot) compress or towel on your baby’s stomach. The heat relaxes the intestines and encourages the trapped gas to move forward.

Expert Tip:

“Simple physical touch works wonders it stimulates the nerves in the baby’s intestines to move the gas along,” says Dr. Sana Tariq, a pediatrician.

5. Prevention tips:

How to avoid gas buildup in the first place.

While finding how to relieve gas in babies is helpful, prevention is even better. Here’s how:

• Use anti-colic bottles: These are designed to reduce air intake.
• Feed in a semi-upright position: Helps milk go down more easily and reduces swallowed air.
• Watch for rapid let-down during feedings: If the milk is coming in too quickly, try leaning back or expressing a little before feeding.
• Avoid overfeeding: Smaller, more frequent feeds are often better.
• Track feeding habits: Keep a record of what and when your baby eats to identify patterns.

6. When to Worry: Conditions to Rule Out if Your Baby’s Gas Is Persistent or Accompanied by Other Symptoms

While it’s common for babies to experience gas, especially in the first few months of life, prolonged or unusually severe gas pain may signal an underlying issue. If you’re trying to relieve gas in your baby naturally but the discomfort persists or if other signs appear it’s essential to rule out more serious conditions.

1. Cow’s Milk Protein Allergy (CMPA)

One of the most common causes of excessive gas, irritability, and digestive upset in infants is cow’s milk protein allergy. This can occur in formula-fed babies or breastfed babies sensitive to dairy in the mother’s diet. Other signs may include mucus or blood in stool, skin rashes, and poor weight gain.

2. Lactose Intolerance

Though rare in newborns, some infants may have difficulty digesting lactose, a sugar found in milk. This can lead to bloating, gas, and diarrhea. If symptoms worsen after feeding, discuss testing with your pediatrician.

3. Infant Reflux (GERD)

Gastroesophageal reflux can cause gas-like symptoms in babies, including arch­ing of the back, frequent spit-up, poor feeding, and irritability. This is especially concerning if your baby seems to be in pain during or after feeding.

4. Colic

If your baby cries for more than 3 hours a day, more than 3 days a week, and for over 3 weeks, they may have colic. Gas may worsen symptoms, but colic is a broader condition that often peaks around 6 weeks of age and improves by 3–4 months.

5. Intestinal Obstruction or Infection (Rare but Serious)

In very rare cases, persistent abdominal swelling, bilious (green) vomiting, or bloody stools may indicate a serious problem like intestinal blockage or infection. Seek immediate medical attention in such cases.

When in doubt, always consult your pediatrician, especially if your baby’s gas is associated with fever, lethargy, weight loss, or feeding refusal.

Conclusion: a calm baby, a happy home

So, how to relieve gas in babies fast? Start with simple, doctor approved home remedies for gas relief in babies like burping, tummy rubs, and keeping a close eye on feeding habits. Consider how both breast milk and formula can affect your baby’s digestive system. If not breastfeeding try to use gas relief formula milk.

Yes, gas is common. Yes, it can be frustrating. But with the right knowledge and a few proven strategies, you can ease your baby’s discomfort and your stress, too.

Remember, every baby is different, and what works for one may not work for another. Trust your instincts, track symptoms, and consult your pediatrician when in doubt.

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🧑‍⚕️ About the Author

Dr. Asif, MBBS, MHPE

Dr. Asif is a licensed medical doctor and qualified medical educationist with a Master’s in Health Professions Education (MHPE) and 18 years of clinical experience. He specializes in gut health and mental wellness. Through his blogs, Dr. Asif shares evidence-based insights to empower readers with practical, trustworthy health information for a better, healthier life.

⚠️ Medical Disclaimer

This blog is intended for educational and informational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or another qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Never disregard or delay medical advice based on content you read here.