A colicky baby is crying from intense abdominal pain and intestinal cramping. Their immature digestive systems are not yet capable of handling food. Their intestines do not have the probiotics or good bacteria to break down enzymes in what they are fed. By the age of six months, these good bacteria are established and colic disappears. Experts estimate about 25% of  babies around the world suffer from colic.

 Some babies cannot tolerate formulas containing large amounts of iron. They do better on soy or rice milk products. My two youngest did. A baby with colic will have the same symptoms about the same time everyday and usually after a meal. They will cry loudly with arms and legs flailing or perhaps have their legs drawn up to their tummies. The abdomen may be bloated and baby might be gassy.

If your baby has any of these symptoms, your doctor will ask what he or she has eaten and, if you are nursing, what you are eating. If you are eating a lot of cruciferous vegetables or spicy foods that cause gas, these elements are getting into baby's system. This does not make you a bad mom. Tweaking your diet will help. There are a number of homeopathic formulas on the market called 'gripe waters'. Most contain bicarbonate of soda, essential oils and plant extracts that are known to have negative side effects. These gripe waters and antacids are likely to disrupt baby's electrolytes. Their products are not FDA approved. One company produces Colic Calm Gripe Water that is used only as needed. Relief is just minutes away. Colic Calm is available in some doctors' offices, select health food stores and online. It is an alternative to pharmaceuticals and chemicals.When your baby is screaming, they are in pain and need you to continue to be loving and soothing to them regardless of how frazzled you might be. This helps to estabalish a loving bond.