What to Know About Baby Gas and How to Treat It

Another issue that can cause gas in breastfed babies is lactose overload. This happens when there is a foremilk and hindmilk imbalance. Foremilk, which contains less fat and more lactose, is the first breast milk the baby gets each nursing session. Hindmilk, which comes after the foremilk is drained, contains higher levels of fat.

If your baby gets full from foremilk and doesn't drink enough hindmilk, they may get gassy from the excess lactose. Possible signs your baby is experiencing lactose overload include watery, foamy, or greenish poop (indicating their food is moving through their system too quickly to be fully digested), persistent diaper rash (from contact with acidic stools), and gassiness.

This imbalance can happen if you switch sides too frequently before your baby gets down to the hindmilk. An overabundance of breast milk can also create a situation where the baby fills up on foremilk. Fully draining the breast before switching sides can help ensure your baby gets hindmilk at each feeding. You can also pump at the start of each session to drain off some of the foremilk. If needed, talk to your pediatrician or lactation consultant to help even out your supply.

Infection and other medical concerns

Finally, let your pediatrician know about any gassiness that's accompanied by fever, incontinence, diarrhea, severe abdominal pain, poor growth, blood in the stool, or other sudden symptoms. These symptoms might signal an underlying issue like an infection.