Abstract:

This chapter describes the emerging evidence suggesting the association between intestinal microbiota, use of probiotics and infant crying and behaviour, with particular focus on infant colic. It first describes the challenges in defining and measuring infant colic, its epidemiology and burden, and its association with later mental health problems. The chapter discusses the aetiological theories of infant colic, from the traditional hypotheses to the more recent evidence of the role of gut microbiota, inflammation and the gut-brain axis. The chapter then outlines the evidence on the role of probiotics in treating and preventing infant colic. It proposes recommendations on managing infant colic, and finally concludes with suggestions for future clinical research.