Hiccups can be the worst, even as an adult - let alone as a baby! While hiccups are common and generally harmless, they can still be frustrating.
1) Burp frequently
Hiccups are often caused by trapped gas, which can distend the stomach. So, you can reduce the hiccups by burping your child. Make sure you read our article on reducing infant gas on our blog!
2) Offer gripe water
This method is sworn by parents and even our staff members! It is a mix of purified water with natural herbs/spices known for settling stomachs. Some variations include:
- Fennel
- Chamomile
- Ginger
- Cinnamon
- Lemon balm
- Clove
- Licorice
It’s known as the counter remedy but always consult with your pediatrician before using it.
3) Change the position of the baby
Did you ever try the old wives' tale about standing on your head to get rid of hiccups? Well, don’t do it to your baby. But changing their position can help as it causes different muscle groups to engage, therefore relaxing the diaphragm.
4) Paced feeding
Milk flow can be difficult to control as well as the air your baby takes in during bottle feeding. Excessive gas is, of course, known to irritate the diaphragm and therefore cause hiccups. So finding ways to limit the intake of air during this time will help decrease the chance of hiccups. The main ways to do paced feeding are:
- Give the bottle on hunger cues, not a schedule
- The nipple is put in only when the baby opens their mouth
- The baby is in a semi-upright position
- The bottle was held horizontal to the floor and not at an angle
- Every 30 seconds there are breaks
- Feeding continues if the baby tries to find the nipple
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The baby must seek out the milk and the bottle, rather than the parent giving it to them. It allows the maximum amount of milk to be consumed with less air, which means a decreased chance of hiccups.
5) Wait it out
Ah yes, while frustrating, hiccups are harmless and so waiting them out is a viable option also. During this time, just distract the baby from the hiccups - and this may be the best method. However, if they are agitated, distressed, or uncomfortable by their hiccups, then consult a pediatrician who can help rule out any underlying causes.
We are here!
Many babies who are formula-fed struggle with gastrointestinal symptoms such as hiccups, which we have experienced as parents, so our team of expert technicians is here to help. We have a buyer’s guide to the best organic formula which can help answer questions about whether your baby’s formula is best for sensitive tummies or - if not - which one is best.
