Almost all babies suffer from gas and abdominal problems because of their weak digestive systems. It is considered to be a regular part of the life of babies.
Most parents think about gripe water to solve their babies’ gas and tummy problems. Several parents prescribe gripe water to solve infant digestive system problems.
What gripe water is, the method of working with gripe water, and how to relieve gas bubbles using gripe are much more important to know.
In this article, our main topic of discussion is gripe water for babies: Does it work?
What Is Meant By Gripe Water?
Several products are available in the market to relieve babies’ colic problems. Their primary purpose is to ease the gas problem by improving digestive health.
If you want to choose a home remedy that is safe for your little one, you must try gripe water which is safe for infants.
As far as gripe water is concerned, it is an herbal supplement that comes in liquid form.
It is also solid in grocery stores, pharmacies, and health food stores.
Its primary purpose is treating the gas, colic, and other related problems.
The basic formulation of gripe water varies, but some other formulas come with a mixture of different herbs:
- fennel
- ginger
- chamomile
- licorice
- cinnamon
- lemon balm
When your baby experiences stomach discomfort, it is natural that he will suffer from a gas problem. Children cry for more hours, days, and weeks.
Gripe water is essential for relieving gas problems because it contains herbs that help treat digestion problems.
Naturally, it was made to relieve gassiness. But remember, this is proved from studies from adults, not infants.
Some gripe water ingredient includes alcohol particles, and they will also come in other ingredients like sugar and flavoring agents.
The gripe water is also responsible for treating tooth pain and hiccups.
Read more: 6 Natural Remedies To Relieve Constipation In Your Newborn
What Are The Adverse Effects Of Using Gripe Water?
As you know, several brands are making gripe water, and they commit that it is safe, but it has some adverse effects.
With the newer formulations of gripe water, it has been claimed that they are generally safe.
However, it is essential to monitor for any of these side effects:
- Rashes are commonly observed in babies who use gripe water.
- Itching can also occur in these babies.
- With the use of gripe water, there are chances of vomiting.
- Watery eyes are also responsible for gripe water use.
- Swelling of the lips or tongue
- Change in the breathing pattern of the baby.
- Indigestion problem is also seen in these babies.
- Diarrhea may also occur in these babies.
- National Capital Poison CenterConstipation is a substantial adverse effect of gripe water.
- Diarrhea may also occur in these babies.
- Indigestion problem is also seen in these babies.
- Problems in teething.
- Fever is also observed in some cases.
- Fussiness can also occur.
What Do You Know About The Ingredients Of Gripe Water?
Ingredients vary based on the brand you buy but usually include water, baking soda, and a variety of herbs. Some gripe waters also contain sweeteners.
Here’s what you’re likely to find:
The ingredients of gripe water vary from brand to brand, but mainly these brands include water, herbs, and baking soda.
Most of the gripe water ingredients include sweeteners.
- Ginger root extract
- Fennel seed extract
- Sodium bicarbonate (baking soda)
- Chamomile flower extract
- Lemon balm leaf extract
- Passionflower extract
- Preservatives
- Water
- Agave or other sweeteners
Is It Possible To Give Gripe Water To Infants And Newborns?
It is essential to consult a doctor before introducing your baby’s stomach to gripe water.
Modern research shows that introducing gripe water to your baby’s stomach helps prevent the colic problem and may hurt your newborn’s stomach.
Some studies show that babies with colic problems may suffer from vomiting and constipation.
Gripe Water Is Safe For Your Baby Or Not?
Gripe water is safe for your baby or not is much more challenging to say.
Most medical consultants did not recommend using any of these products because these products contain herbal products, and we have no evidence about the strength, quality, and quantity of products.
According to a study by the National Capital Poison Center, some medical problems can occur because of herbal supplements:
- Seizures in babies with the use of herbal teas and home remedies.
- Mercury and lead poisoning may happen if you use traditional treatments.
- Liver damage is most commonly seen in babies who use supplements.
- Some allergic reactions also occur in babies who use herbal supplements.
In past histories, many studies show that most babies suffer from intestinal infections using herbal supplements.
Due to these reasons, gripe water is not preferred for babies. You must consult your medical specialist if you want to use gripe water for your baby.
What Are Alternative Brands Of Gripe Water?
The alternative brands of gripe water are given below:
Anti-gas drops
Anti-gas drops are considered to be the best alternative because it is pretty helpful in treating colic and relieving gas pain in infants.
Probiotics:
Lactobacillus reuteri.Probiotics help relieve colic problems in breastfeeding babies because they contain bacteria named Lactobacillus reuteri.
You can also avoid colic problems in babies by avoiding allergic products like dairy products, eggs, peanuts, tree nuts, wheat, fish, and soy.
If your baby is formula-feed, you can prevent colic by switching to a hydrolyzed formula.
Gripe Water For Babies: Does It Work- Conclusion
Gripe water for babies: Does it work? This is a common question for parents. The gripe water is helpful for babies to relieve the colic gas problem.
It is efficient in his work, but continuing to use gripe water can cause a digestive problem and GIT infection. In the United States, it is not preferred for babies.
Related: What Are The Symptoms Of Constipation?
