Newborn Mom’s Best Friend
Sharing a great product
Ever hear of one of those products that every mother should have in her newborn arsenal? I wanted to take a quick moment to share one such product. I used to carry it, myself, for my home studio but with Covid and sanitary conditions being a concern, I no longer feel it prudent to keep it here. So, instead, I highly recommend it.
Gripe Water
The “it” that I keep referring to, is a product called “Gripe Water”. It’s formulated specifically for newborns and young babies to help alleviate symptoms of gas and other tummy troubles that like to plague our littles as their tiny digestive tracks get the hang of things. As you know (or are about to find out), tummy issues are really uncomfortable to babies and the only way they have to voice their irritation and frustration is crying…a lot of it. It’s really hard for any parent, especially a new one, to hear their baby crying. It makes us feel helpless and useless and inadequate. Not good feelings, at all. So, if there’s a chance it can provide relief (and only if your pediatrician ok’s it), then it’s worth a try.
Is it safe?
While some say it works and others don’t, the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) did say that Gripe Water isn’t harmful. It contains natural herbal ingredients like ginger and chamomile, though variations containing a variation of ingredients like dill, peppermint and others are also available. It’s to be noted that these aren’t the same as “gas drops”, which act a little differently inside the body. You can read a little more about it HERE.
Other possibilities.
Gerber also has a line of products that many parents swear by. I haven’t personally tried any of these but Gerber is a trusted name in all things “baby”, so it’s worth doing your research, including these products.
Best ideas
Of course, the old saying “an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure” comes into play here. It’s best to just avoid upset tummies, if at all possible. Breastfeeding is generally considered to be the most natural and least troublesome feeding option but that’s not always an option, I realize. If you do breastfeed, just bear in mind that what you eat, your baby eats (through milk). It’s best to try avoiding spicy foods, greasy and fatty foods, strong herbs like garlic, etc. Be sure to discuss your best options with your pediatrician.
