Tummy Trouble Toolkit: At-Home Interventions That (May) Actually Help

Here’s the good news: you don’t need fancy gadgets or exotic supplements to support your baby’s digestion. In most cases, a few calming, consistent habits can make a big difference. Think of these as your go-to tools for easing gas, preventing reflux, and encouraging happy poops—without the overwhelm. Each baby will respond differently to each intervention. Try them all and use what works! :-)

🚲 1. Bicycle Legs (A Classic for a Reason)

Lay baby on their back and gently move their legs in a pedaling motion. This helps release trapped gas and encourages bowel movement. Bonus: it’s great bonding time too.

💆‍♀️ 2. Baby Belly Massage

Use a warm hand and gentle clockwise circles around baby’s belly button (following the path of the colon). Even a few minutes a day can relax tense tummy muscles and stimulate digestion. Try after a warm bath or diaper change.

🪑 3. Feed Upright, Hold Upright

Position matters! Feeding your baby at a slight incline (rather than flat) can help reduce gulping and reflux. After feeding, hold them upright against your chest for 15–30 minutes to help milk settle and air bubbles

4. Bottle Basics: Slow and Steady

Make sure you’re using the right nipple flow size (review the chart in the last section!).Pair it with:

• Paced bottle feeding: Let baby draw the milk, rather than it pouring in too fast.

• Frequent burping: Try mid-feed burps, not just at the end. Think of it like “air breaks.”

  
  

🌿 5. Tummy Time (Even If They Hate It)

Gentle, supervised tummy time strengthens baby’s core and helps push out trapped gas. Start with just a minute or two and build from there—it doesn’t have to be a wrestling match.

🦠 6. What About Probiotics?

Some parents consider infant probiotics to support gut flora, especially in formula-fed babies or after antibiotics. While research is mixed, some strains (like L. reuteri) have shown promise in easing colic. Always run supplements by your pediatrician first.

🔁 Be Consistent, Not Complicated

Routine and rhythm often matter more than a single miracle solution. Try interventions for a few days before switching things up. And don’t forget—you’re adjusting too. Give yourself grace as you both learn what works.

🧡 Gentle truth: You can’t “fix” baby digestion overnight. But you can make it more comfortable—bit by bit, burp by burp.