A study shows that probiotics may be useful in some cases of infant colic.Daily crying times were statistically significantly reduced in the babies supplemented with probiotics versus the placebo group – both of whom were exclusively breastfed. The symptoms of infantile colic improved and was well tolerated and safe in the probiotics group.
There is also a small amount of evidence to support mums eating a low allergen diet when babies have colic.
This is especially interesting as a recent systematic review systematic review of medical and conventional therapies shows little scientific evidence to support the use of Infacol or Dentinox (Simethicone) or colief (Lactase enzyme). Antispasmodics are generally not recommended for babies as they can have serious adverse effects.
J Paediatr Child Health. 2012 Feb;48(2):128-37. doi: 10.1111/j.1440-1754.2011.02061.x. Epub 2011 Apr 7. Infantile colic: a systematic review of medical and conventional therapies. Hall B, Chesters J, Robinson A.
Lactobacillus reuteri DSM 17938 in infantile colic: a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial. Pediatrics. 2010; 126(3):e526-33 (ISSN: 1098-4275). Savino F et al.