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Maternal and Child Health Journal
Published in: Maternal and Child Health Journal 6/2012

01-08-2012

Dietary Management of Infantile Colic: A Systematic Review

Authors: Marina Iacovou, Robin A. Ralston, Jane Muir, Karen Z. Walker, Helen Truby

Published in: Maternal and Child Health Journal | Issue 6/2012

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Abstract

Infantile colic, the cause of 10–20% of all early paediatrician visits, can lead to parental exhaustion and stress. A systematic review was conducted to examine whether dietary change provides an effective therapy for infantile colic. Six databases were searched from 1960, and 24 studies selected for inclusion. In breastfed infants, evidence suggests that a hypoallergenic maternal diet may be beneficial for reducing symptoms of colic. In formula-fed infants, colic may improve after changing from a standard cow’s milk formula to either a hydrolysed protein formula or a soy-based formula. Fibre-supplemented formulae had no effect. Removal of poorly digested carbohydrates from the infant’s diet has promise, but additional clinical studies must be conducted before a recommendation can be made. Use of a universal definition to measure symptoms of infantile colic and consistent analysis of urine and faecal samples would improve the evidence in this area.
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Metadata
Title
Dietary Management of Infantile Colic: A Systematic Review
Authors
Marina Iacovou
Robin A. Ralston
Jane Muir
Karen Z. Walker
Helen Truby
Publication date
01-08-2012
Publisher
Springer US
Published in
Maternal and Child Health Journal / Issue 6/2012
Print ISSN: 1092-7875
Electronic ISSN: 1573-6628
DOI
https://doi.org/10.1007/s10995-011-0842-5

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