Alison Odey

Colic is usually caused by an immature gastrointestinal system.
The digestive process is inadequate and the undigested food causes gas and distension which is very distressing to the child.

This is quite possible even when the child is totally breast-fed and the mother is consuming dairy proteins and not digesting these adequately herself or alternatively is consuming other foods to which baby is intolerant. These can include brassicas, green apples, fried foods, excess sugars, tomatoes etc. The nursing mother needs to eliminate these from her diet.

Most times however, colic does not tend to be an allergic reaction, but more a problem of protein intolerance.
Digestive enzymes need to be used to improve the digestion before the condition alleviates. If the child is totally breast-fed, then often only the mother needs to take the enzymes. If the child is bottle fed or on solid foods as well, then the child needs to be given a small amount of enzymes with each feed.

The type of enzyme supplements used is important. Many enzyme supplements on
the ‘over the counter’ market are ineffective, and unsuitable for young children.

I usually recommend a product which is entirely plant derived, contains an effective dosage of digestive enzymes and are extremely well tolerated. They are in capsulated form so the capsule can be opened up and the formula administrated to the child as a powder. Alternatively, a papaya based tablet is often reasonably successful if protein seems to be the only problem. It is also advisable to limit the amount of dairy proteins in the diet, both for Mum and baby.
See page on ‘Enzymes – facts’.

Homeobotanical remedies are also suitable for young children and can be used to improve digestion – but the method is less direct.
However, if mixed so as to be calming as well as digestive, the effect can be very good and may be used in conjunction with enzymes.

If these methods fail, then seek the advice of a good cranial osteopath as at times colic in young babies can be caused by birth traumas and possible minor spinal imbalance.