Probiotics prevent colic in babies

What the research found

A 2019 Cochrane review pooled six placebo-controlled trials with 1886 babies. All were given probiotics from birth, or from pregnancy, to see if colic could be prevented. In three studies (1148 babies), the rate of new colic cases was not clearly different between groups. The certainty of this finding was low.

The review found probiotics may reduce crying time, and no safety concerns. That is a different question from stopping colic from starting. The authors said more research is needed to work out whether the onset of colic can be reduced.

Treatment studies look more promising. A 2024 meta-analysis of trials in babies under 3 months who already had colic found probiotics cut crying by an average of 51 minutes a day. The drop was larger in exclusively breastfed babies (about 74 minutes). A 2020 review of reviews also found the best results in breastfed babies, with 25 to 65 minutes less crying over 24 hours.

What it doesn’t mean

• This does not mean probiotics are useless for colic. For breastfed babies who already have it, one strain (Lactobacillus reuteri DSM 17938) is listed as a treatment option. Results in formula-fed babies are less clear.
• Experts say large, high-quality trials are still lacking, so no colic treatment is strongly recommended. Parent support and reassurance remain a key part of care.
• Colic is only diagnosed after other causes are ruled out. See a GP or child health nurse if your baby seems unwell, feeds poorly or you are worried, and check with them before starting any supplement.