Complete Buyer’s Manual for the Best Formula for a Gassy Baby in 2023

We all know that babies are much more vulnerable than us on all things that are health-related. In particular, their digestive system is not as mature as ours, so they are having more difficulty in processing foods. Not only that, but they are also prone to developing a lot of gas.

As we have said earlier, the immature digestive system of babies tends to produce more gas. But at the same time, there are also many ways where babies can swallow air and lead to gassy tummies. These include basic actions like eating, crying, or sucking, which is why they can pass gas up to 21 times per day.

Sadly, a gassy baby is an unhappy baby. Well, we can’t blame them because it’s an uncomfortable and even a painful experience. The problem here is that sometimes, we have to use a formula for our babies, which can be extra difficult since some formulas themselves can cause gassiness.

But don’t worry. We have reviewed the formulas in the market that are gentle on your little one’s tummy, especially if he/she has a gassy tummy. Our list is complete with different products to make sure that you’ll find the best formula for a gassy baby. We also wrote a comprehensive buyer’s manual to answer your potential questions.

Best Formula for a Gassy Baby Comparison Table

Read also: Best Baby Food Maker

Best Formula for a Gassy Baby Reviews

Similac Total Comfort – Best Formula for Constipation and Gas

Later in this review, you’ll find the Similac Sensitive, which is what Similac markets specifically for fussiness and gas. The reason for this is because that formula is excellent for babies with lactose sensitivity, and it also has “gentle” proteins that are easier to digest.

However, while the product we have here doesn’t have the same label saying “for fussiness and gas,” we still think it’s worthy of being included in this list. Instead of having gentle proteins, Total Comfort has partially digested proteins.

Partially Digested Proteins

Easy to Digest

Basically, the reason why Total Comfort made it to this list is that it is gentle and easy to digest. These characteristics are what we are looking for in a formula for gassy babies. We don’t want to put their digestive systems to additional stress due to the difficulty of breaking down proteins.

Another characteristic of Total Comfort that makes it gassy baby-friendly is that it dissolves easily in water. This way, you don’t have to mix the solution too much and turn it bubbly, which can worsen gas. However, this formula does have a distinct smell compared to other products.

Because it is gentle to digest, we found Total Comfort beneficial for babies with other digestive problems. At the same time, it also has prebiotics that acts as “supporters” of the good bacteria in your child’s tummy. This can also help your gassy baby because other problems like constipation or fussiness won’t worsen his/her existing discomfort from gas.

OptiGRO

As for the nutritional standpoint, Total Comfort also has a combination of DHA, lutein, and vitamin E. Similac collectively calls them as OptiGRO and is common among their other formula variants. These ingredients are naturally found in breast milk, and aids in a baby’s development, particularly for their brain and eyes.

You can also check the Pro-Advance and Pro-Sensitive variants of Similac that have 2’-FL HMO, which is beneficial for the immune health of babies. However, hang on tight since our next product from Gerber also contains HMO.

Gerber Good Start Soothe – Editor’s Choice

HMO Formula without GMOs

The second product in our review comes from Gerber, and it is the Good Start Soothe (HMO) Non-GMO powder formula. HMO stands for human milk oligosaccharide, and non-GMO means that this product is free from genetically modified organisms. To help you understand it better, the cows where the milk is sourced are free from artificial growth hormones. At the same time, this formula has no other genetically engineered ingredients.

Being free from GMOs is an advantage for gassy babies because of the risk of developing allergies from those kinds of ingredients. From a consumer perspective, buying something free of artificial components is always going to be safer. And since this is formula we’re talking about, we want the product to be as close to breast milk as possible.

What is L. reuteri?

When babies are uncomfortable, of course, they are prone to fussiness and excessive crying. And when your baby cries a lot even after you soothe him/her or even without reasons, chances are your little one is colicky. He/she may also have a bloated tummy and tend to pass gas because of swallowing air from excessive crying. Now, with this formula, the probiotic L. reuteri and HMO components can help to soothe the symptoms mentioned in the label.

Has Probiotics, Prebiotics, and DHA

L. reuteri is a probiotic, and as we have seen in the studies, it is indeed clinically shown to be effective in reducing colic. As a result, it will also lessen the possibility of your baby swallowing air from excessive crying.

It is also worth noting that probiotics are normally present in breast milk, and they play a role in immunity and digestive health. This formula even has prebiotics, as well as DHA for brain and eye development. All of these components are beneficial for your baby’s development and health, and not just for his/her gassy condition.

Comfort Proteins

Another ingredient that we like in Gerber, and also helped establish it to become our top pick is the fact that its proteins are more baby-friendly. As we have mentioned in our buyer’s guide, formulas tend to be more difficult to process by baby tummies. The reason for this is that the proteins in cow’s milk are not as digestible as the ones in human milk.

That is why it’s a huge advantage that Gerber has so-called “comfort proteins,” which are more easily digestible. These proteins are hydrolyzed, and this simply means that they are already broken down, making them much easier to digest by baby tummies. Not only that, but hydrolyzed proteins are much gentler on babies who are at risk of having allergies or immune diseases as well.

Reflux happens when food backs up from your baby’s stomach, which will then cause spit-ups. However, this condition is normal and will eventually stop after your baby reaches 12 months of age. Remember that their digestive system is still not fully developed, which is why they usually spit-up after feedings. You can reduce or ease acid reflux with hydrolyzed proteins because the digestive system can process them easier.

So if you’re looking for the best formula for gassy baby with reflux, Gerber is also an excellent consideration.

Gentle Formula

Being a gentler formula means that your little one’s digestive system doesn’t have to work that hard, which can lead to excessive gas. And because the formula is not prone to causing allergies and other digestive problems, you don’t also run the risk of worsening the gassy condition of your baby.

What We Don’t Like

Now, the only drawback we have for this product is the fact that they have redesigned their container. According to Gerber, they have changed their button latch and lid, as well as the way they secure the scoop. However, the scoop itself is not transparent and not as easy to use when transferring the contents. The style of the can is also quite awkward, and we prefer the lid style of the old design.

Similac Sensitive for Neuro Support – Best Formula for a Gassy Fussy Baby

Next on our list is the Similac Sensitive for Neuro Support, and this is our choice for a gassy and fussy baby. First of all, this is also a non-GMO formula similar to our previous product. You can guarantee that it is free from any artificial growth hormones and other ingredient modifications.

Designed for Lactose Sensitivity

Now, what makes Similac Sensitive our choice for a gassy fussy baby? Similac has specifically designed this formula for lactose sensitivity. As you can see in the ingredient list, it has galactooligosaccharide, which is easier to digest than lactose. However, this is also the same reason why they label this product that it’s not for infants and children with galactosemia.

Lactose Intolerance and Gassiness

There are many reasons why a baby can get gassy. And one of them could be from lactose sensitivity, or more popularly known as lactose intolerance. If babies are unable to digest the sugar naturally present in milk (i.e., lactose), they can exhibit symptoms like bloating, diarrhea, and even gas. And because of the discomfort, babies can get fussy, which causes them to swallow more air from crying.

With DHA, Lutein, and Vitamin E

As for the other ingredients, this formula also has DHA, lutein, and vitamin E. These are naturally found in breast milk, and it is important that your baby will also get them in his/her formula. You’re going to see DHA a lot in formulas in the market because studies have shown its role in brain and eye development.

DHA stands for Docosahexaenoic acid, and it is an omega-3 fatty acid. Lutein, on the other hand, is a major carotenoid, which also has significant effects on eye and brain development. And lastly, vitamin E is beneficial for the immune system. Along with these ingredients, you’ll also see other common nutrients, as well as vitamins and minerals, that are typically in other baby formulas.

In Exchange of Lactose…

This sugar acts as the carbohydrate source of the formula, and since it is sweet, it helps in the overall taste of the formula. This makes the taste more acceptable for babies, however, it is still debatable if having a high amount of sugar is healthy for babies. Nonetheless, corn syrup is glucose, which is still not as concerning as fructose.

Enfamil NeuroPro Gentlease – Best Formula for a Gassy Newborn

The fourth product in our review is the popular Enfamil NeuroPro Gentlease. This is the first Enfamil product out of the four that made to this list. But for now, let’s take a look at what’s unique about the Gentlease.

MFGM and DHA Blend

From the name itself, Enfamil markets this formula as a gentle milk powder. Like our previous products, it is also non-GMO, so you’re ensured that it doesn’t have modified ingredients. However, Gentlease is different among other “gentle” formulas in the market because of its blend of fat and protein. Specifically, we’re talking about its MFGM and DHA omega-3 blend.

What Does NeuroPro Means?

MFGM stands for milk fat globule membrane, and of course, you’re already familiar by now with DHA since it is popular among formulas. Gentlease has isolated MFGM from cow’s milk, and it is also helpful in brain development and cognitive function. This is what separates Gentlease from the other formulas in the market, in addition to having the popular DHA.

Because of the combination of DHA and MFGM, Enfamil markets this with the label NeuroPro, in relation to their health benefits. You’ll also see other usual ingredients like choline for brain and digestion health, as well as probiotics for your little one’s immune system.

Gentler Version

But how does Gentlease helps for gassy babies? As we have mentioned previously, Enfamil markets this formula as NeuroPro because of MFGM and DHA. However, this product is also labeled as Gentlease because it is marketed as a gentler version of Enfamil NeuroPro.

We found that compared to the regular NeuroPro, babies are less fussy, which means they are less prone to crying and swallowing excess air. We’ve also found that this formula is better for gassy babies if you want to start them on NeuroPro, but you need a “gentler” product.

Easy to Digest Proteins

At the same time, the proteins in Gentlease is easy to digest, so your little one’s tummy won’t have to work too hard and produce more gas. In fact, we found that Enfamil is true to their claims that it can ease fussiness within 24 hours. However, this will still vary for each baby.

Does Not Clump

Overall, this product is our top choice for a gassy newborn. It is easy to digest, and it contains all the necessary nutrients, particularly those that aid in brain development. It also helps that the powder itself doesn’t clump during mixing.

But if we have a feature that we don’t like with this product, it is that corn syrup solids are first on its ingredient list. Nonetheless, similar to what we’ve discussed in Similac Sensitive for Neuro Support, corn syrup is easier to digest than lactose.

Enfamil Nutramigen – Best Hypoallergenic Formula for Gassy Baby

Hypoallergenic

The next formula in the list is also from Enfamil, and it is the Nutramigen variant. If you’re looking for a hypoallergenic formula, this is our choice for you. Normally, when you label a formula as “hypoallergenic,” it means that it has hydrolyzed proteins. This way, babies who are allergic to intact cow’s milk proteins will have fewer chances of experiencing an allergic reaction to the formula.

Free From Lactose and Sucrose

But other than having hydrolyzed proteins, Nutramigen is also lactose and sucrose-free. As we have discussed in our review in Similac Sensitive, lactose intolerance can cause gassiness. Therefore, being lactose-free means that lactose intolerant babies or those with lactose sensitivity can take this formula. This formula also has no additional sucrose, so you don’t have to worry about excessive sugar content.

Hydrolyzed Milk Proteins for Managing Colic

We have previously mentioned that the hydrolyzed cow’s milk proteins in Nutramigen make it hypoallergenic. But this feature also helps in managing colic, which can cause or worsen gassiness. This is also the reason why we found gassy babies who found relief in using Nutramigen.

Probiotics for Digestion and Immunity

Besides hydrolyzed proteins, Nutramigen also contains Enflora LGG probiotics. If you remember how we discussed probiotics in Gerber Good Start Soothe, you know that they also help in digestive health. At the same time, probiotics also provide immune support, which is beneficial for future allergy prevention. Again, all of these features work together in avoiding the chances of worsening a baby’s gassy condition.

The Potential Drawback

However, Nutramigen does list corn syrup solids first in its ingredient list. So far, this feature is a trend on the products we reviewed that aim to be lactose intolerant baby-friendly. If you want to know more about the possible effects of this sugar to your baby, we recommend that you talk to your pediatrician. Nonetheless, there are no supportive claims that prove the negative effects of having corn syrup solids in a baby formula.

Enfamil Enspire Gentlease – Best Formula for Transition from Breast Milk of Gassy Baby

Coincidentally, following Enfamil Nutramigen is also another formula from Enfamil. This time, we’re taking a look at the Enfamil Enspire Gentlease. And like the Enfamil NeuroPro Gentlease, this formula is also non-GMO, so you know that it’s free from any modified ingredients.

Gentle Version of the Famous Enspire

By the name itself, you know that the Enspire Gentlease is going to be the “gentler” version of Enfamil Enspire. And we have also introduced you to another Gentlease product earlier on, which is the Gentlease NeuroPro. Again, the Gentlease line of Enfamil is the brand’s label on their products that are going to help reduce fussiness, gas, and crying.

Good for Digestion

We also recommend this product if your baby is experiencing constipation because it has a blend of baby prebiotics. Just like what we’ve discussed in Similac Total Comfort, prebiotics is beneficial for digestive health. They serve as food for the “good bacteria” in your little one’s GI system.

Has Lactoferrin

However, what separates Enspire Gentlease from other formulas in this list is that it has lactoferrin. Lactoferrin is a protein found in colostrum and breast milk. And as we’ve been saying throughout this review, we want formulas to be as close to breast milk as possible. Now, this protein is advantageous because it aids in immune support. At the same time, it plays a role in the health, development, and functioning of the gut in infants.

Brain Support

Enspire Gentlease is also marketed for its brain developing benefits thanks to its MFGM and Omega-3 DHA content. You are probably familiar with the combination of these two. But if you haven’t read them on our NeuroPro review, MFGM supports cognitive development. And of course, the ever-popular DHA among formulas also plays a role in brain and eye health.

Immune Health

We think that lactoferrin and these brain-building nutrients make this formula excellent for transitioning your little one from breast milk. It also has choline and vitamins D, C, and E for immune health. However, Enspire Gentlease does have a certain smell to it that some babies may not like.

We also want to remind you to consult your pediatrician first if you’re going to transition your little one. But nonetheless, Enspire Gentlease is indeed a gentle formula that gassy babies can benefit from.

Enfamil ProSobee Soy Sensitive – Best Plant Protein-Based Formula for Gassy Baby

Our next product is also from Enfamil, and it is the ProSobee Soy Sensitive. This is our pick if your baby has to use an alternative to a milk-based formula. At the same time, it is meant for sensitive tummies, so it will still be gentle on your gassy baby.

However, please remember the guidelines set by AAP if you’re going to start your baby with any soy-based formula. As we have continuously mentioned throughout this article, consult your little one’s pediatrician first. Nonetheless, certain conditions of babies would require them to have an alternative to a milk-based formula. So now, let us take a look at Enfamil ProSobee.

Lactose and Milk Alternative

Lactose intolerance or sensitivity on dairy products can cause babies to get gassy and experience other symptoms like diarrhea. And because of the discomfort, they’ll eventually get fussy and, therefore, are more prone to swallowing more air and worsening their gassiness.

Hydrolyzed Proteins

Lessens Spit-Ups

We also found that ProSobee is effective in reducing spit-ups among babies. Spit-up is common in babies, and it happens when they mildly vomit milk or saliva. But sometimes, it can also be a sign of gas build-up. Similar to getting gassy when they swallow excessive air, babies can also spit-up more when they have too much air in their tummies.

Brain and Immune Health

Like the other formulas in this review, ProSobee is also beneficial for brain development. It has DHA and choline that you have probably seen in the previous Enfamil products. And of course, this formula is also helpful for immune health because of its blend of vitamins.

However, you will see that it also has corn syrup solids. We have expected this since this is a trend on formulas that aims to be lactose sensitive-friendly. On the bright side, corn syrup solids have no claims that will prove it to be detrimental to your baby’s health. It serves as the sugar replacement for lactose and acts as the carbohydrate source in the formula.

Love & Care Gentle – Best Partially Hydrolyzed Formula for Gassy Baby

Another formula that the manufacturer labeled as “gentle”, is this product from Love and Care. It comes in an eye-catching purple container, and it also has a tag at the front saying it’s for fussiness, gas, and crying.

Non-GMO, Gluten-Free, and Certified-Kosher

As you can expect, this formula is also non-GMO, like the previous ones in this list. It is also certified Kosher by the Orthodox Union, and is gluten-free if these factors are significant for you. Now, what makes this formula gentle is that even though it has cow’s milk proteins, they are still going to be easy to digest.

Partially Hydrolyzed Cow’s Milk Proteins

Love and Care uses partially hydrolyzed cow’s milk proteins, which by now, you know, is an advantage for a gassy baby. This feature is also useful if your little one has difficulty in processing milk proteins. However, note that this is different from hypoallergenic formulas like the Enfamil Nutramigen earlier on.

When choosing the best partially hydrolyzed protein formula, they’re all in the same playing field. It will boil down to the other features of the formula, especially if your baby is gassy. As for the formula itself, we only don’t like that it has a yellow color and a distinct smell. This is a common feature among formulas, which is why it’s difficult for babies to like them instantly. However, we like that it doesn’t get clumpy so it wouldn’t turn bubbly from overmixing.

25% Less Lactose

Other than having partially hydrolyzed cow’s milk proteins, it is worth noting that Love and Care has 25% less lactose compared to standard milk-based formulas. Some babies are not able to process lactose as easily as others, so having them partially hydrolyzed and in a lower amount can be beneficial for these babies.

As you can assume by now, in exchange for the lactose content, this formula will use corn syrup. Corn syrup acts as the carbohydrate source to make up for the low lactose content of this formula. But the good news is Love and Care doesn’t use high fructose corn syrup, which every parent won’t like seeing in their baby formula.

Blend of Nutrients for Development of Brain, Digestive, and Immune Health

Other than the features above, this formula also has familiar ingredients such as DHA, choline, prebiotics, vitamins, and minerals. Again, these nutrients are essential for brain development, as well as immune and digestive health. We also notice that it has similarities with the nutritional profile of another popular formula, which is the Enfamil Premium Gentlease. So if you are a fan of this product, Love and Care is a more affordable alternative to consider.

Inositol

Enfagrow Toddler Transitions Gentlease – Best Formula for Gassy Toddler

We want this review to be inclusive, which is why our next product is a formula for babies ages 9 to 18 months. If your toddler is experiencing gassiness, our recommendation is the Gentlease variant of Enfagrow Toddler Transitions.

Gentlease

As we have previously said, this formula also has the label Gentlease. This means that it is similar to the other Gentlease products that we’ve reviewed earlier on. Enfagrow uses partially hydrolyzed proteins, which makes them easier to digest.

Partially Broken Down Proteins

When cow’s milk proteins are already partially broken down, it can help in reducing gas because your little one’s digestive system doesn’t have to “work” too hard. And because they are not feeling discomfort, your child will also feel less fussy, which is again, helpful in reducing excess gas.

Triple Health Guard

Toddler Transitions also has a blend of nutrients that Enfagrow collectively calls as Triple Health Guard. It has a similarity with the previous formulas in this review because it is composed of a prebiotic, DHA, and a combination of vitamins and nutrients. We already know that prebiotics are helpful for immunity and digestion, while DHA is excellent for brain development. Nutrients and vitamins are, of course, a must in any formula, whether it’s for toddlers or babies.

The only drawback we have for Toddler Transitions is that corn syrup solids is first on its ingredient list. But as we have already discussed earlier, this ingredient makes up as the carbohydrate source of the formula. Nonetheless, you can always check with your pediatrician about your child’s consumption of this ingredient.

Baby’s Only LactoRelief – Best Organic Formula for Gassy Baby

We have reviewed Baby’s Only LactoRelief in our article about the best organic formulas in the market. However, this product also makes our list for gassy babies because of its tummy-friendly blend and other characteristics.

Certified USDA Organic

Baby’s Only is certified USDA Organic. This guarantees that it complies with the guidelines of the USDA, making it a genuine organic product. Overall, this formula is free from pesticides, hormones, and antibiotics. And like our previous formulas, it is non-GMO.

No Corn Syrup and Palm Oil

Now, what makes Baby’s Only stand out among this list is the fact that it has no corn syrup and palm oil. Remember that corn syrup can be a drawback in a formula because it is a sweetener in replacement of lactose. On the other hand, some babies may be sensitive to palm oil.

Lactose Intolerant-Friendly

As you can see on its label, this formula is called LactoRelief. And as you can assume, this means that this product is gentle for those with lactose sensitivity. Again, lactose intolerance can cause gassiness, so this is an excellent characteristic. Baby’s Only is lactose intolerant-friendly because they use an organic enzyme to reduce its lactose content.

Organic DHA and ARA

The bottom line is the fact that this formula uses organic ingredients that makes it much gentler on your little one’s tummy. It is also mild enough for those with lactose sensitivity, and it still is complete with nutrients for growth and development. The only comment we have is that some babies may still react differently with this formula. However, this is true to all formulas, so it’s best that you check all the ingredients.

Buyers Guide

Why is My Baby Gassy?

The air in the stomach or intestines of babies can be painful and uncomfortable. And there are also a lot of reasons that can cause your baby to get gassy.

Some cases of gassiness maybe from your little one’s diet. Certain foods can induce more gas in the digestive process more than other foods. And other than the natural digestive process, your baby might have an intolerance for specific foods. But then again, each baby differs, so your baby might react differently to these foods as well:

• Dairy products (e.g., milk, cheese, yogurt, ice cream)
• Wheat
• Corn
• Fish
• Eggs
• Peanuts
• Cruciferous vegetables (e.g., broccoli, cauliflower, kale, cabbage)

When babies latch on the breast incorrectly, or when they cry or babble, they tend to swallow air in the process. And speaking of swallowing air, drinking too fast, or too slowly can also cause your baby to gulp more air.

Digestive problems like constipation or reflux can also cause gassiness. However, it is still best to consult your doctor beforehand, especially when your little one pass gas more often.

How to Prevent Baby Gas

1. Make sure you’re listing what foods you’re introducing your baby to know which one is the possible culprit. Your baby might be sensitive to certain foods, which can cause intestinal problems like constipation or even gassiness.
2. As we have mentioned earlier, when your baby fails to latch properly, he/she may also take some air in with his milk. You can prevent this by feeding him/her before he/she gets very hungry. This way, he/she won’t drink too quickly.

At the same time, help him/her to slow down in feeding. What you can do is interrupt him/her when you notice that he/she is starting to suck air. When interrupted, you can let your little one to relatch and get a better seal to prevent smacking.

1. You can also keep your baby’s head higher than his/her stomach when feeding. And if you’re using bottles, you can tilt the bottle in an angle, so your baby doesn’t have to suck more air in trying to get the milk.
2. During and after feeding, you can burp your baby every 10 or fewer minutes. If your baby is suffering from gas pain, you can also place him/her on his/her tummy 30 minutes after feeding. Use a slightly convex surface, so that you are adding a slight pressure on his/her tummy.
3. You can also place your little one on his/her back and offer him/her a gentle tummy and back massage in a clockwise motion. Some even give their baby gentle leg lifts or leg bicycles. These exercises are great in addition to burping your baby before and after feeding to stimulate his/her digestive tract muscles. Note that the clockwise motion is important as it helps the gas move along the same route of the digestive tract.
4. Lastly, the best thing that you can do to prevent or alleviate your gassy baby is to consult his/her pediatrician. Like with any other health conditions, you’ll feel more at ease knowing that you’ve talked with an expert. While gas is completely normal, follow your parent instinct when you feel like you need to consult your little one’s doctor.

Factors to Consider in Buying a Formula for a Gassy Baby

Type of Baby Formula

If you have seen our review on the best organic baby formula, then you are also familiar with the different types of baby formula. Or, more specifically, the various forms of baby formula. Why is this factor significant for a gassy baby?

Let us first discuss the different forms of baby formula:

• Powdered: The most popular form of baby formula is powdered because it is cheaper and easier to store. However, you have to make sure that you have measured the water and powder. Otherwise, your baby is not going to get the proper amount of nutrients. You also have to be extra careful with the water you’re using to make sure it’s not contaminated.

When the powdered formula you’re using is not dissolving quickly into the water, you’re going to be mixing the solution more often. This will then result in more bubbles in the solution, which can cause gas. Therefore, you have to choose a powdered formula that dissolves easily. Thus, you won’t have to shake and mix the solution too much.

• Concentrated Liquid: This type of formula still requires it to be mixed with water. This is necessary so that its texture is smooth enough to be drinkable by babies. However, the advantage of this form for gassy babies is that you don’t have to wait for the powder to dissolve. Nonetheless, you still have to be mindful when mixing the solution and water so that it doesn’t get too bubbly.

• Liquid: The last form of baby formula is the liquid type and doesn’t require to be dissolved in water. This is really convenient because they are ready-to-use, at the expense of costing more than the previous two types of formulas. At the same time, you also have to be diligent in checking the bottles they’re in to make sure that it’s free from chemicals like BPA, which can worsen gassiness.

Ingredients in the Baby Formula

The second important factor in choosing a baby formula is, of course, the ingredients in it. The straightforward explanation to this is that there are ingredients that babies are unable to properly process and digest. In particular, these ingredients are the proteins found in cow’s milk.

This is also the same reason why you’ll see formulas with probiotics and prebiotics because they help with digestion. What they do is they help in breaking down the proteins so they’ll be much easier to process and digest by your baby. This way, your baby’s digestive system will not produce too much gas in an effort to break the proteins down. Probiotics can also be beneficial for the digestive system so your baby can avoid digestive conditions like acid reflux and constipation.

You might also want to check out formulas that underwent partial hydrolysis. Basically, what this means is that the milk’s proteins are slightly broken down in the process. Ergo, it will be easier for your little one to digest the proteins. Remember that the proteins in cow’s milk are not as easy to digest as the ones in human milk, so breaking them down beforehand can make the formula gentler on your baby’s tummy.

Other than proteins, the whey balance of the formula also affects how easy it will be for your baby to digest it. Cow’s milk has a higher casein content compared to breast milk, making milk-based formula harder to digest than human milk.

Overall, look for a formula that has a higher whey content since it remains liquid compared to casein that hardens in the stomach, making it much harder to digest. Consequently, this can cause the digestive system to produce more gas in the process.

Speaking of digestion, lactose is also another ingredient that makes digesting milk-based formula more difficult for your baby. In fact, there is a 2011 study that showed the improvement of the gassy conditions in babies fed with low-lactose formula.

Depending on your little one, he/she may have a harder time processing formulas with high lactose content compared to other babies. Lactose intolerance can cause the passing of gas along with other conditions like diarrhea. This is the reason why it’s important to know if your baby has this condition. This way, your pediatrician can recommend other types of formula for your baby. It is also worth noting that some babies might have sensitivities or allergies to dairy. Ergo, you might want to choose plant-based formulas over milk-based formulas.

Read also: Best Electric Breast Pump

Conclusion

In conclusion, there is no magic all-around formula that can solve a baby’s gassiness. Every baby can react differently on each formula, so it’s always a matter of trying which one is going to be the most effective. Make sure you’re always observing how your baby reacts to the formula and check with his/her pediatrician beforehand.

Our top pick in this list is the Gerber Good Start Soothe. The reason for this is that it has hydrolyzed proteins, so it’s going to be easier to digest. For a gassy baby, this means his/her digestive system will not have to overwork, and worsen his/her condition. It also has prebiotics, probiotics, and DHA for the development of the brain, digestive, and immune health. We also like that it has positive effects on colicky and even babies with reflux. 

Do you have any questions for us? Feel free to leave them below!