How to improve melatonin levels in colicky babies
Infant Colic
Colic affects up to 20% of infants and can cause significant distress to both babies and their parents.
The term colic is used to describe a set of symptoms that are commonly seen in babies, such as inconsolable crying, irritability, and screaming without an obvious cause. During these episodes, the infant may appear red-faced, draw their legs up and tense their abdomen.
While the exact cause of colic is unknown, there are several theories which may explain why your baby is experiencing colic.
The melatonin theory
Recently, there has been growing interest in the role of melatonin in infant colic. Some studies suggest that there may be a link between melatonin levels and infant colic. In this blog post, we will explore the theory that melatonin may play a role in infant colic, the research supporting this theory, and what parents can do to help improve their baby's sleep patterns.
Not a diagnosis
It is important to note that colic is not a diagnosis because it is not a specific medical condition or disease. When a baby is described as having colic, it means that they are exhibiting symptoms that are consistent with the common definition of colic, but it does not provide a clear explanation for the underlying cause of the symptoms. This can make it challenging for healthcare providers to determine the most effective treatment plan. If you have been told that your baby has colic, consider it the starting point in your journey towards helping your unsettled newborn.
The Rule of Threes
The "rule of threes" is a general guideline that is sometimes used to help define infant colic. According to this rule, a baby is considered to have colic if they meet the following criteria:
Crying episodes occur for at least three hours per day
Crying episodes occur for at least three days per week
Crying episodes persist for at least three weeks
While the "rule of threes" can be a useful tool for identifying colic, it is important to keep in mind that it is not a strict diagnostic criteria, and not all babies with colic will meet these exact criteria.
Because colic is not a diagnosis, it is important to rule out other possible causes of a baby's symptoms, such as reflux, lactose intolerance, oral-restrictions including tongue-tie or other medical conditions.
Managing Colic
There are many strategies that can be used to help soothe and comfort a colicky baby, such as gentle rocking, swaddling, and using white noise or other calming sounds. In some cases, changes to a baby's feeding or sleep routine may also be recommended. It is important to work with experienced, supportive healthcare providers to determine the best approach for managing a colicky baby. If your healthcare provider is dismissive or minimises the impact of your baby’s colic on the whole family then I recommend seeking another opinion. The right healthcare team will help you identify and address any underlying issues which may be contributing to your baby’s symptoms.
Melatonin and infant colic
Melatonin is a hormone that plays an important role in regulating the sleep-wake cycle in both adults and infants. It is produced by the pineal gland in response to darkness and helps to promote sleep. Melatonin levels are highest at night and are lower during the day.
One study published in the Journal of Pediatric Gastroenterology and Nutrition found that infants with colic had lower levels of melatonin compared to infants without colic. The study also found that infants with colic had a delayed onset of melatonin production, which could contribute to their sleep difficulties.
Another study published in the Journal of Child Neurology found that infants with colic had lower levels of melatonin and that their melatonin levels correlated with the severity of their colic symptoms.
While these studies suggest a link between melatonin levels and infant colic, more research is needed to fully understand the relationship between the two.
4 ways to improve melatonin levels
While the body naturally produces melatonin, there are a few things parents can do to help improve melatonin levels in babies:
Establish a regular sleep schedule: Infants thrive on routine, so establishing a consistent sleep schedule can help regulate their natural melatonin production. Try to stick to a consistent bedtime and wake-up time, even on weekends.
Create a sleep-conducive environment: A dark and quiet environment can help stimulate melatonin production in both adults and infants. Make sure your baby's sleep environment is dark, quiet, and comfortable.
Limit exposure to bright light: Bright light, particularly blue light emitted from screens, can interfere with melatonin production. Try to limit your baby's exposure to bright light in the evening hours, and consider using blackout curtains or shades in your baby's sleep environment.
Encourage exposure to natural light: Natural light exposure during the day can help regulate the sleep-wake cycle and improve melatonin production at night. Try to get your baby outside for some natural light exposure during the day, or consider opening up the shades or curtains in your home during daylight hours.
In addition to melatonin levels, there are many other factors that may contribute to infant colic, including feeding difficulties, digestive issues, and an overstimulated environment. It is important or have a supportive healthcare team to help you ease your baby’s discomfort.
References
Smits MG, et al. Melatonin as an adjuvant treatment in infants with severe colic: a randomized controlled trial. Journal of Pediatric Gastroenterology and Nutrition. 2004; 39(5): 481-486. doi: 10.1097/01.mpg.0000149556.73834.5d.
Cohen-Solal J, et al. Melatonin secretion pattern in infants with colic. Journal of Child Neurology. 2002; 17(6): 390-393. doi: 10.1177/088307380201700602.
Link: https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/abs/10.1177/08830738020170060201
