Reduction of crying episodes owing to infantile colic: A randomized controlled study on the efficacy of a new infant

F Savino1, E Palumeri, E Castagno

  • 1Department of Paediatrics, University of Turin, Turin, Italy. francesco.savino@unito.it

Insights

A new infant formula with partially hydrolyzed whey proteins and prebiotics significantly reduced crying episodes in colicky infants. This specialized formula offers a promising alternative for managing infant colic.

Area of Science:

  • Pediatrics
  • Infant Nutrition
  • Gastroenterology

Background:

  • Infantile colic is a common condition characterized by excessive crying in healthy infants.
  • Current management strategies for infantile colic include behavioral interventions and pharmacological treatments.
  • Dietary interventions, such as specialized infant formulas, are explored for their efficacy in managing colic symptoms.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To evaluate the effectiveness of a novel infant formula in reducing crying episodes associated with infantile colic.
  • The study assessed a formula containing partially hydrolyzed whey proteins, prebiotic oligosaccharides (OS), and high beta-palmitic acid content.

Main Methods:

  • A prospective randomized controlled study was conducted in Italy.
  • 267 infants under 4 months with colic were randomized to receive either the new formula (study treatment) or a standard formula with simethicone (control treatment).
  • Parental questionnaires tracked daily colic episodes and crying time over 14 days.

Main Results:

  • Infants receiving the new formula showed a significant reduction in colic episodes after 7 days (2.47 vs. 5.99 in control, P < 0.0001).
  • This significant difference in crying episodes persisted at day 14 (1.76 in study group vs. 3.32 in control group, P < 0.0001).
  • 199 infants completed the study, with 96 in the study group and 103 in the control group.

Conclusions:

  • Partially hydrolyzed infant formula supplemented with fructo- and galacto-oligosaccharides (OS) effectively reduces crying episodes in infants with colic.
  • The study demonstrates a significant reduction in crying after 7 and 14 days compared to standard formula and simethicone.
  • This specialized formula represents a viable option for managing infantile colic.
Abstract

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