Which is better gripe water or gas drops?

Answered by Jeremy Urbaniak

When it comes to deciding between gripe water and gas drops for your baby, it can be a bit overwhelming as a parent. Both options claim to help relieve gas and discomfort in infants, but there are a few factors to consider before making a decision.

Firstly, let’s talk about gripe water. Gripe water is an herbal remedy that has been used for many years to soothe colicky babies. It usually contains a combination of herbs such as fennel, ginger, chamomile, and peppermint. The idea behind gripe water is that these herbs can help calm the digestive system and relieve gas.

On the other hand, gas drops are typically made with simethicone, a substance that helps break up gas bubbles in the stomach. Gas drops are often recommended for babies who have excessive gas or are experiencing discomfort due to trapped gas. They work by reducing the surface tension of gas bubbles, allowing them to be expelled more easily.

So, which one is better? Well, it ultimately depends on your baby’s specific symptoms and how they respond to each treatment. If your baby’s stomach seems firm and they constantly draw their legs toward their stomach to relieve built-up gas, gas drops may be a better option. Gas drops can help break up the gas bubbles and provide relief for your little one.

On the other hand, if your baby seems to respond more to soothing techniques and seems generally fussy or colicky, gripe water may be the preferred treatment choice. The herbal ingredients in gripe water can help calm the digestive system and promote relaxation, which may be beneficial for colicky babies.

It’s important to note that both gripe water and gas drops are considered generally safe for infants when used as directed. However, it’s always a good idea to consult with your pediatrician before giving any new medication or supplement to your baby.

In my personal experience, I found that gripe water worked well for my baby when he was colicky. The herbal ingredients seemed to help soothe his tummy and provide some relief from his discomfort. However, I have also used gas drops on occasion when he had excessive gas, and they seemed to help break up the bubbles and ease his symptoms.

To summarize, there isn’t a definitive answer as to which is better between gripe water and gas drops. It really depends on your baby’s individual symptoms and how they respond to each treatment. If you’re unsure, it’s always best to consult with your pediatrician for guidance.