How to Choose the Best Bottles for Colic: A Parent’s Guide

Welcoming a new baby into the family is a beautiful milestone. However, with all the joy and excitement that comes with it, there is also the stress and worry of ensuring that your child has everything they need to grow and thrive. One of the most common problems new parents face with their infants is colic. Babies with colic experience inconsolable crying and fussiness, and it can be a real challenge for parents to find ways to soothe them. Thankfully, there is a solution: bottles designed specifically to alleviate colic symptoms.

The Problem with Traditional Bottles

Colic is caused by trapped air in your baby’s digestive system. This can occur during feeding, which is why the type of bottle you use is critical. With traditional bottles, your baby may end up swallowing excess air, which can lead to discomfort and pain. Traditional bottles also often require a lot of suction, which can cause your child to gulp down air. This can result in more gas and discomfort, contributing to colic symptoms.

Bottles Designed to Alleviate Colic

Bottles designed specifically to reduce colic symptoms are often called anti-colic bottles. They are designed with special features to help prevent air from getting into your baby’s system while they are feeding. There are several types of anti-colic bottles available, and each offers its own unique features.

Anti-Colic Bottle Features

1. Venting System

One of the most common features of an anti-colic bottle is a venting system. These systems aim to reduce the amount of air your baby swallows during feeding. They work by creating a vacuum in the bottle, which prevents air from flowing into your child’s mouth. Some popular anti-colic bottles that incorporate a venting system are Dr. Brown’s Options+ Anti-Colic Bottles and Avent Anti-Colic Bottles.

2. Angled Design

Another feature that anti-colic bottles may have is an angled design. This design allows the nipple to remain full of milk, preventing your baby from needing to suck as hard to get their food. With less suction, your baby will swallow less air, reducing the likelihood of colic symptoms. Brands such as Tommee Tippee Closer to Nature Anti-Colic Bottles and MAM Anti-Colic Bottles have bottles with angled designs.

3. Straw System

Some anti-colic bottles come with a straw system. The straw is inserted into the bottle and extends all the way to the bottom. This design allows your baby to feed in a more natural position and reduces the amount of air they swallow during feeding, minimizing colic symptoms. Brands like Comotomo Baby Bottles use a straw system.

Conclusion

If your baby is experiencing symptoms of colic, finding the right bottle can make all the difference. Anti-colic bottles, equipped with features like venting systems, angled designs, and straw systems, can help reduce the amount of air your baby swallows during feeding, minimizing colic symptoms. It is essential to experiment with different bottles to find the one that works best for your baby’s needs. In the end, finding the right anti-colic bottle will make for a happier, more comfortable feeding experience for you and your little one.

• Venting systems
• Angled design
• Straw systems