Where does gas come from in infants and newborns?
There are different ways that air can get into babies’ digestive systems. Gas is produced in the digestive tract from the moment baby has his or her first drink of breast milk or formula. Newborn gas is a natural byproduct of digesting lactose, proteins and other nutrients contained in breast milk or formula.In addition, some pediatricians and lactation specialists assert that traces of gas-producing foods such as cruciferous vegetables and legumes can be passed from mother to baby. Some experts also warn against excessive acidity in the maternal diet. Citrus fruits and juices, strawberries and tomatoes are high in acidity and may irritate the infant. Dairy products in mother’s diet can also lead to “intolerances” in baby. The problem is usually linked to the milk protein found in milk, cheese, butter, yogurt, ice cream, etc. Soy and peanut intolerance in babies often accompanies dairy intolerance. When breastfeeding, a mother can test how these common culprits may be affecting her chi