Babies with persistent fussiness, gas problems, or colic might not find relief from Gripe Water, as stated in the report.
Gripe water, an over-the-counter remedy commonly used to alleviate symptoms of colic, gas, and fussiness in babies, is not regulated by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) as it's not classified as a medicine or food. This lack of regulation leaves the ingredients and manufacturing process at the discretion of the company.
Gripe water brands today have various combinations of ingredients, including fennel, ginger, sodium bicarbonate (baking soda), and various flavorings. However, there's no scientific evidence that these ingredients are proven to get to the root of colicky or gassy babies' issues.
One concern with gripe water is its potential dangers. Over the last 15 years, various brands have been recalled due to potential hazards for babies. Recalls have been issued due to the presence of the parasite cryptosporidium, undissolved ingredients that could be a choking hazard, and contamination with bacteria such as Pseudomonas aeruginosa, which caused septic shock in a 9-month-old baby.
Despite these concerns, some parents may still turn to gripe water to soothe their babies. It's essential to note that there's no assurance that gripe water is safe or effective for babies. Pediatrician Christina Vernace emphasizes that there's no scientific evidence confirming gripe water is safe or effective for colicky and fussy babies.
So, what can parents do if they're concerned about gas, fussiness, or colic symptoms in their baby? The best course of action is to talk with a children's healthcare provider about it. They can help figure out what's causing the symptoms and suggest the best remedies.
Common methods for managing colic include soothing techniques like rocking, swaddling, warm baths, white noise, and using a pacifier. Gassy babies can often be soothed with methods like burping, bicycling their legs, changing formula, and using gas drops with the ingredient simethicone.
It's important to remember that colic is a diagnosis of elimination. A baby's healthcare provider will first want to look for other causes for an uncommonly fussy baby before landing on a colic diagnosis. Research published by the National Institutes of Health suggests the probiotic Lactobacillus reuteri may provide relief for babies with colic.
In conclusion, while gripe water may seem like a quick fix for colic and gas symptoms, it's crucial to approach its use with caution. Parents are advised to consult with a healthcare provider for guidance on the best methods to soothe their baby and manage any symptoms.
