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How to manage acidic poop in formula fed baby?

This Premium Q&A, reviewed and published, features a real conversation between an iCliniq user and a physician.

Patient's Query

Hello doctor,

Why does my baby have colic, a swollen belly, smelly, acidic poop, and so much gas? His stomach rumbles a lot, and he is formula-fed.

Please help.

Thank you.

Answered by Dr. Urva Tahreem

Education:

MBBS

Professional Bio:

I am Dr.Urva Tahreem board certified pediatrician with almost 5 years of clinical experience in pediatrics, managing all Outpatient as well as complicated inpatient cases. Furthurmore, I am providing online consultation and queries solving, medical writing on various plateform.

This doctor is not available for online consultations on the platform anymore.

Hello,

Welcome back to icliniq.com.

I understand your concern.

It is most likely due to formula feed intolerance. Other causes may be

  1. Lactose sensitivity.

  2. Swallowing excess air during feeding.

  3. Immature digestive system.

  4. Cow’s milk protein allergy (less common but important).

You should give your mother food. Burp the baby well after every feed. Feed in a semi-upright position. Avoid overfeeding. Keep the baby upright for 20 to 30 minutes after feeds. Gentle tummy massage and bicycle leg exercises.

Please consult a pediatrician immediately if your baby develops:

  • Blood or mucus in stools.

  • Persistent vomiting.

  • Fever.

  • Poor weight gain.

  • Continuous or excessive crying.

  • Very hard or tense swollen abdomen.

Reassurance:

Your baby’s weight of 5.9 kg (13 lbs) is reassuring. In most infants, colic, gas, and digestive discomfort improve naturally by three to four months of age as the digestive system matures.

I hope this helps.

Kindly follow up if you have more concerns.

Thank you.

Medically reviewed by iCliniq medical review team
Published At February 23, 2026
Reviewed At February 24, 2026

Education:

MBBS

Professional Bio:

I am Dr.Urva Tahreem board certified pediatrician with almost 5 years of clinical experience in pediatrics, managing all Outpatient as well as complicated inpatient cases. Furthurmore, I am providing online consultation and queries solving, medical writing on various plateform.

This doctor is not available for online consultations on the platform anymore.

Same symptoms don't mean you have the same problem. Consult a doctor now!

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Acidic Poop in Formula-Fed Babies: Causes and Care Awareness Builder

Is your formula-fed baby experiencing acidic poop?

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This tool provides educational information only and does not diagnose, treat, or replace professional medical advice. Consult a qualified healthcare professional for personalized medical guidance.

Education:

MBBS

Professional Bio:

I am Dr.Urva Tahreem board certified pediatrician with almost 5 years of clinical experience in pediatrics, managing all Outpatient as well as complicated inpatient cases. Furthurmore, I am providing online consultation and queries solving, medical writing on various plateform.

This doctor is not available for online consultations on the platform anymore.

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