Introduction
As a new parent, you may be wondering how to choose the right baby formula for your little one. One of the most common issues parents face while feeding their babies is gas. Babies can develop gas from various sources, including swallowing air while feeding, intolerance to lactose or formula protein, and an immature digestive system. In this article, we will discuss different types of baby formula available in the market and which baby formula causes less gas.
Common Causes of Gas in Babies
Gas is a common issue among infants, and it can cause discomfort, fussiness, and sleep disturbances. As a parent, you need to understand the common causes of gas in babies to prevent it from occurring.
Overfeeding
Overfeeding your baby can cause gas because their digestive system is not developed enough to handle large amounts of milk or formula. Feeding your baby in small and frequent intervals can help prevent overfeeding.
Intolerance to Lactose or Formula Protein
Some babies are intolerant to lactose, a sugar found in milk and milk-based formula. In such cases, parents can opt for lactose-free formula or soy-based formula. Similarly, some babies may be sensitive to the protein in cow’s milk-based formula, so parents can choose hypoallergenic formula as an alternative.
Immature Digestive System
Babies’ digestive systems are not fully developed at birth, and it takes time to mature. During this time, babies can develop gas due to the inability to digest milk or formula properly.
Understanding the common causes of gas in babies can help you choose the right baby formula that causes less gas. In the following sections, we will discuss the different types of baby formula and their ingredients that can cause gas.
Types of Baby Formula
There are three main types of baby formula available in the market: cow’s milk-based formula, soy-based formula, and hypoallergenic formula. Each type of formula has its benefits and drawbacks, and parents should choose the right one based on their baby’s needs.
Cow’s Milk-based Formula
Cow’s milk-based formula is the most commonly used formula and is made from cow’s milk that has been modified to resemble breast milk. This formula is rich in nutrients and is suitable for most babies. However, some babies may develop gas due to the lactose and protein in the formula.
Soy-based Formula
Soy-based formula is an alternative to cow’s milk-based formula and is suitable for babies who are intolerant to lactose or have a milk allergy. Soy-based formula is made from soy protein and does not contain lactose. However, the formula’s taste may be slightly different from cow’s milk-based formula, and some babies may not like it.
Stay tuned for the next 2 sections where we will discuss the ingredients that cause gas in baby formula and the best brands that cause less gas.
Types of Baby Formula (Continued)
Hypoallergenic Formula
Hypoallergenic formula is specially designed for babies who have a milk allergy or intolerance to cow’s milk-based formula. This formula is made from extensively hydrolyzed protein or amino acids, which are easier to digest and less likely to cause an allergic reaction. Hypoallergenic formula is more expensive than other types of formula, but it may be the best option for babies with severe allergies or intolerances.
Baby Formula Ingredients that Cause Gas
Some ingredients in baby formula can cause gas in babies. It’s essential to understand these ingredients to choose a formula that causes less gas.
Lactose
Lactose is a sugar found in milk and milk-based formula. Some babies may not be able to digest lactose properly, leading to gas and other digestive issues. If your baby shows signs of lactose intolerance, you may want to try lactose-free formula or soy-based formula.
Whey Protein
Whey protein is a protein found in cow’s milk-based formula. Some babies may be sensitive to whey protein, causing gas and other digestive issues. If your baby shows signs of sensitivity to whey protein, you may want to try hypoallergenic formula or soy-based formula.
Casein Protein
Casein protein is another protein found in cow’s milk-based formula. Some babies may be sensitive to casein protein, leading to gas and other digestive issues. If your baby shows signs of sensitivity to casein protein, you may want to try hypoallergenic formula or soy-based formula.
Choosing the right baby formula that causes less gas can make a significant difference in your baby’s comfort and well-being. In the next section, we will discuss some of the best baby formula brands that cause less gas.
Baby Formula Brands that Cause Less Gas
Choosing the right baby formula brand can be overwhelming for parents, especially when they are not sure which brand causes less gas. Here are some of the best baby formula brands that cause less gas:
Similac Sensitive
Similac Sensitive is one of the most popular baby formula brands that cause less gas. It is designed for babies who are sensitive to lactose and helps reduce fussiness and gas. The formula contains OptiGRO, a blend of DHA, lutein, and vitamin E, which supports brain and eye development.
Enfamil Gentlease
Enfamil Gentlease is another popular baby formula brand that is gentle on the baby’s tummy and causes less gas. It is designed for babies who are sensitive to lactose or have a milk allergy. The formula contains partially broken down protein, which is easier to digest, and is enriched with DHA and choline, which support brain development.
Gerber Good Start Soothe
Gerber Good Start Soothe is a hypoallergenic baby formula that is gentle on the baby’s tummy and causes less gas. It is designed for babies who have a milk allergy, colic, or excessive crying. The formula contains probiotics that support digestive health and is enriched with DHA, which supports brain development.
Tips for Reducing Gas in Babies
Aside from choosing the right baby formula, there are other things that parents can do to reduce gas in babies. Here are some tips for reducing gas in babies:
Burping Techniques
Burping your baby during and after feeding can help release any trapped air in their tummy, reducing gas. You can burp your baby by holding them upright and gently patting or rubbing their back.
Correct Feeding Position
The correct feeding position can also help reduce gas in babies. Holding your baby in an upright position during feeding can help prevent them from swallowing air. Additionally, using an angled bottle can help reduce the amount of air your baby swallows during feeding.
Slow Feeding Pace
Feeding your baby in a slow and relaxed manner can also help reduce gas. Rushing the feeding process can cause your baby to swallow more air, leading to gas. Take breaks during feeding and allow your baby to rest and digest their food.
In conclusion, choosing the right baby formula and implementing these tips can help reduce gas in babies, making feeding time more comfortable for both the baby and the parent. At Reviews AZ, we understand the importance of providing parents with valuable information, and we hope this article has helped you choose the right baby formula for your little one.
