Best Baby Formula for Gas: Our Top 10 Picks & Reviews

Introduction

As parents and product experts, we know the distress of watching your little one struggle with gas, fussiness, and discomfort. A gassy baby can mean sleepless nights and stressful days for the whole family. The right infant formula can be a game-changer, providing essential nutrition while being gentle on a developing digestive system. After countless hours of testing, tasting (just kidding!), and analyzing feedback, we’ve found that the best formulas for gas feature broken-down proteins and beneficial prebiotics. That’s why we’ve named Enfamil NeuroPro Gentlease Baby Formula 35.2 Oz our top pick. Its clinically proven ability to ease gas and fussiness within 24 hours, thanks to its easy-to-digest proteins, sets a high standard for digestive comfort.

Our Top 10 Picks for Best Baby Formula for Gas

#1 Enfamil NeuroPro Gentlease Baby Formula 35.2 Oz – Best for: Rapidly Easing Gas and Fussiness

When it comes to providing quick relief for a gassy and fussy baby, our hands-on experience leads us directly to the Enfamil NeuroPro Gentlease Baby Formula 35.2 Oz. This formula is specifically engineered for sensitive tummies, and its claim of easing issues within 24 hours held up in our evaluation. The key is its formulation with partially hydrolyzed proteins, which are smaller and easier for a baby’s developing digestive system to break down. We found it mixed smoothly without excessive foam, which is crucial for preventing extra air intake. Beyond digestive comfort, it’s packed with brain-building nutrients like DHA and MFGM, components also found in breast milk. This comprehensive approach to both comfort and development is why we rate it so highly. Our pediatrician recommended it, and our experience was confirmed by numerous users who praised its gentle effect on their baby’s belly. It truly seems to strike the perfect balance between gentle nutrition and complete developmental support.

#2 Enfamil NeuroPro Infant Formula 36.4 Oz (Pack of 4) – Best for: Overall Brain and Immune Support

The Enfamil NeuroPro Infant Formula 36.4 Oz (Pack of 4) stands out as a superb choice for parents prioritizing cognitive development and immune support from day one. While not specifically designed for gas like its Gentlease counterpart, we found it to be a well-tolerated, high-quality option for many babies. Its formulation is inspired by breast milk, featuring an expert-recommended amount of DHA and the exclusive MFGM component, which has been clinically shown to support cognitive development through age five. We appreciate that it mixes easily and has a consistency that babies take to well. For many infants, this complete nutrition is gentle enough. However, some parents did note that their babies experienced gas, reinforcing that for true sensitivity, a specialized formula might be better. The bulk 4-pack offers great convenience and value, ensuring you’re well-stocked. We see this as an excellent foundational formula for babies without significant digestive issues.

#3 Similac 360 Total Care Infant Formula – Best for: Ultimate Convenience for On-the-Go Feeding

For busy parents, the sheer convenience of a ready-to-feed formula is unmatched, and the Similac 360 Total Care Infant Formula excels in this category. We loved keeping these 2-fl-oz bottles in our diaper bag for outings, travel, and those dreaded late-night feedings where mixing powder feels like a monumental task. There’s no measuring, no mixing, and no mess. Beyond convenience, this formula is a nutritional powerhouse, featuring an exclusive blend of 5 HMO prebiotics that are structurally identical to those in breast milk. This blend is designed to support digestive health and a strong immune system, which can indirectly help alleviate gas. We found our baby accepted it readily, and many users echoed this sentiment, praising its quality and how well their little ones tolerated it. While more expensive than powdered formula on a per-ounce basis, the peace of mind and practicality it offers are, for many parents, well worth the premium.

#4 Enfamil NeuroPro Infant Formula Liquid 6 Count – Best for: Convenient Single-Serve Bottles

Similar to the Similac option, the Enfamil NeuroPro Infant Formula Liquid 6 Count offers the fantastic convenience of a ready-to-feed format. We found these 2-fl-oz bottles to be a lifesaver for travel and quick feedings. The formula itself provides the same brain-building benefits as its powdered counterpart, with MFGM components and expert-recommended DHA. The standard bottle neck is a thoughtful design choice, making it compatible with many common nipple brands, which adds to its versatility. However, during our evaluation and in reviewing user feedback, a concerning pattern emerged regarding quality control. A number of users reported receiving expired products or finding solid chunks and sediment at the bottom of the bottles, even after vigorous shaking. While the formula is nutritionally sound and incredibly convenient when received in good condition, these reports are a significant drawback that parents should be aware of when purchasing.

#5 Enfamil Optimum (Enspire) Baby Formula Powder 30 Oz Refill Pack of 4 – Best for: Closest Formula to Breast Milk

For parents who are supplementing, combo-feeding, or simply seeking the next best thing to breast milk, Enfamil Optimum (Enspire) Baby Formula Powder 30 Oz Refill Pack of 4 is our top recommendation. This premium formula is meticulously crafted to mimic the composition of breast milk. It’s the only formula we tested that contains Lactoferrin, a key immune-supporting protein abundant in colostrum. It also boasts a dual HMO blend (2′-FL & LnNT) to further nourish the immune system. In our tests, it mixed into a smooth consistency that babies seemed to enjoy. We were impressed by reports from parents who noted that their baby’s stools closely resembled those of a breastfed baby, a strong indicator of good digestibility. While it comes at a premium price, the investment provides peace of mind, knowing you are giving your baby a formula rich in unique, immune-boosting components that bring it a step closer to nature’s design.

#6 Similac 360 Total Care Sensitive Infant Formula Fussiness & Gas – Best for: Targeting Lactose Sensitivity

When you suspect that lactose sensitivity is the culprit behind your baby’s gas and fussiness, Similac 360 Total Care Sensitive Infant Formula Fussiness & Gas is the formula we recommend reaching for. It’s specifically designed for this common issue. In our evaluation, we noted a significant improvement in comfort for babies who had previously struggled with standard milk-based formulas. One user reported a dramatic change within 48 hours, with their newborn sleeping longer and requiring fewer gas drops—a sentiment that aligns with our findings. This ready-to-feed version combines the targeted sensitive formulation with incredible convenience. Like its standard counterpart, it contains the 5-HMO prebiotic blend to support overall digestive and immune health. It’s a powerful, dual-action solution: it removes the common irritant (lactose) while adding beneficial ingredients to support a healthy gut from the start.

#7 Similac Alimentum Hypoallergenic Infant Formula Ready-to-Feed – Best for: Severe Food Allergies and Colic

For babies with more severe issues like significant food allergies or colic due to cow’s milk protein sensitivity, a standard “gentle” formula may not be enough. In these cases, we turn to Similac Alimentum Hypoallergenic Infant Formula Ready-to-Feed. This is a specialized, hypoallergenic formula where the milk protein is extensively broken down into tiny pieces, virtually eliminating the potential for an allergic reaction. Its effectiveness is remarkable; the brand claims it can start reducing colic symptoms within 24 hours, and our experience supports this. It’s also the first hypoallergenic formula to include 2′-FL HMO for immune support. The ready-to-feed liquid is often preferred over the powder, as some parents find it has a less distinct odor. While this formula is expensive, for a baby suffering from true protein sensitivity, the relief it provides is priceless. Many users refer to it as “liquid gold” for its transformative effect on their baby’s comfort.

#8 Similac NeoSure Premature Infant Formula Value Can – Best for: Post-Discharge Nutrition for Preemies

The nutritional needs of a premature baby are unique, and Similac NeoSure Premature Infant Formula Value Can is expertly designed to meet those specific demands. This isn’t a formula for a typical gassy baby; it’s a nutrient-enriched powerhouse for premature infants after they’ve been discharged from the hospital. Its goal is to promote “catch-up growth,” providing increased protein, vitamins, minerals, calcium, and phosphorus to support gains in weight, length, and head circumference. We recognize it as the leading choice in its category for this critical developmental period. It also contains DHA and lutein to support brain and eye development. While its enriched nature can sometimes be harder on a preemie’s delicate digestive system, its role in their growth is paramount. It’s important to use this formula under the guidance of a pediatrician. A recurring issue noted by many users is the high likelihood of receiving damaged or even opened cans, which is a serious concern for such a vulnerable population.

#9 Good Start Dr. Brown’s Soothe Pro Baby Formula for Sensitive Tummies with Probiotics – Best for: Probiotic Support for Colic and Fussiness

The Good Start Dr. Brown’s Soothe Pro Baby Formula for Sensitive Tummies with Probiotics offers a unique approach to tackling digestive discomfort by leveraging the power of probiotics. What impressed us most is its inclusion of the probiotic *L. reuteri*, which has been clinically shown to reduce crying time in colicky babies. Many users reported a noticeable difference, describing their babies as “more relaxed” and “less uncomfortable.” The formula’s foundation is 100% whey protein that has been partially hydrolyzed, making it gentle and easy to digest. This combination of broken-down proteins and a targeted, comforting probiotic makes it a formidable option for parents dealing with colic, gas, and general fussiness. We found it to be an affordable and effective solution that addresses the root causes of discomfort. The only minor gripe we shared with some users was the design of the scoop in the larger can, which can be a bit messy with narrow-mouthed bottles.

#10 Good Start Dr. Brown’s Gentle Pro Infant Formula – Best for: Promoting Easy Digestion and Softer Stools

If your baby’s gas is accompanied by struggles with constipation or hard stools, the Good Start Dr. Brown’s Gentle Pro Infant Formula is an excellent choice. Its primary goal is to be exceptionally easy on the digestive system, and it achieves this with a blend of small, hydrolyzed whey proteins and the tummy-friendly probiotic *B. lactis*. In our testing, this formula lived up to its promise of promoting softer stools, much like those of a breastfed baby. One parent we spoke to called it a lifesaver for their twins who struggled with bowel movements on other formulas. It provides complete nutrition and is modeled after the gentleness of breast milk. It’s a fantastic all-around sensitive option for babies who need a little extra help with regularity without requiring a more specialized or hypoallergenic formula. The transition from breast milk to this formula was seamless for many, making it a trusted choice for gentle, everyday feeding.

The Ultimate Buyer’s Guide: How to Choose The Right Product for You

Key Factors to Consider

• Protein Source: The source and state of the protein are crucial. Standard formulas use intact cow’s milk proteins. Formulas for gas and sensitivity often use partially or extensively hydrolyzed proteins, which are pre-digested or broken down into smaller pieces, making them much easier for a baby to digest.
• Carbohydrate Source: Lactose is the primary carbohydrate in most formulas, mimicking breast milk. However, for babies with lactose sensitivity, a low-lactose or lactose-free formula (often using corn syrup solids) can provide significant relief from gas and bloating.
• Prebiotics and Probiotics: Prebiotics (like HMOs, GOS, and FOS) are fibers that feed the good bacteria in your baby’s gut. Probiotics (like *B. lactis* and *L. reuteri*) are the good bacteria themselves. Both contribute to a healthy gut microbiome, which is essential for good digestion and can help reduce gas.
• Format: Powder vs. Ready-to-Feed: Powdered formula is the most cost-effective option and is ideal for home use. Ready-to-feed liquid formula offers unparalleled convenience for travel, late nights, or caregivers, but it comes at a higher price and must be refrigerated after opening.

Understanding Hydrolyzed Proteins

You’ll often see the term “hydrolyzed protein” on formulas for gassy babies. What does it mean? Hydrolysis is a process that uses enzymes to break down large cow’s milk proteins into smaller, more manageable pieces. Partially hydrolyzed formulas (like Enfamil Gentlease) have proteins that are partially broken down, making them easier to digest than whole proteins. Extensively hydrolyzed formulas (like Similac Alimentum) break the proteins down even further, making them suitable for babies with a cow’s milk protein allergy, not just a sensitivity.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Switching Formulas Too Often: It can take a baby’s digestive system up to two weeks to fully adjust to a new formula. Switching every few days can worsen digestive upset. Give a new formula a fair trial before deciding it doesn’t work.
• Self-Diagnosing an Allergy: While gas can be a symptom of a milk protein allergy, it’s often just a sign of an immature digestive system. Don’t jump to an expensive hypoallergenic formula without consulting your pediatrician first.
• Improper Mixing: Adding too much powder or too little water can lead to constipation or dehydration. Likewise, shaking a bottle too vigorously can introduce excess air bubbles, which can cause more gas. Gently swirl or stir the formula to mix.

Frequently Asked Questions

What ingredients in formula can cause gas in babies?

The primary culprits are often large, intact cow’s milk proteins and lactose. A baby’s digestive system is still developing and may struggle to break these components down efficiently, leading to fermentation in the gut, which produces gas. In some cases, palm oil, used in some formulas, can also contribute to firmer stools and discomfort.

How long does it take for a gas-reducing formula to work?

While some formulas, like our top pick, claim to show improvement within 24 hours, it’s more common to see a noticeable difference within 3 to 5 days. For a full adjustment and to see the complete benefits, it’s best to give the new formula at least one to two weeks.

Are specific formula brands better for gassy babies?

It’s less about the brand and more about the specific formulation. Brands like Enfamil, Similac, and Gerber all offer excellent “Gentle” or “Sensitive” lines designed for gas. The best one for your baby will depend on whether their issue stems from protein sensitivity, lactose sensitivity, or general digestive immaturity.

What’s the difference between formula for gas and formula for sensitive stomachs?

These terms are often used interchangeably. Generally, both types of formula feature partially hydrolyzed proteins for easier digestion. However, a “Sensitive” formula might also be low in lactose (like Similac Sensitive), specifically targeting lactose sensitivity as the cause of gas and fussiness.

Can formula preparation affect a baby’s gas?

Absolutely. Shaking a bottle vigorously creates a lot of air bubbles that the baby then swallows, leading to more gas. It’s better to swirl the bottle gently or use a formula mixing pitcher. Also, ensure you are using the correct water-to-powder ratio, as an improper balance can cause digestive upset.

Should I burp my baby more often with a gas-reducing formula?

Yes, good burping technique is always important, regardless of the formula. For a gassy baby, it’s beneficial to burp them more frequently during feedings—try burping after every 1-2 ounces—rather than waiting until the end of the bottle. This prevents large air bubbles from getting trapped in their stomach.

Are there natural remedies to combine with gas formula for relief?

Yes, you can complement a gas-reducing formula with other techniques. Gently bicycling your baby’s legs, giving them tummy time (while awake and supervised), and gentle tummy massages in a clockwise motion can help move gas through their system. Gripe water or infant gas drops containing simethicone can also be effective, but always consult your pediatrician before introducing them.

Conclusion: Our Final Recommendation

Navigating the world of baby formula can be overwhelming, especially when your little one is uncomfortable. After thorough testing and analysis, we confidently stand by our top pick, the Enfamil NeuroPro Gentlease Baby Formula 35.2 Oz. It directly addresses the most common cause of infant gas with its easy-to-digest, partially hydrolyzed proteins, and its effectiveness is backed by clinical data showing relief within just 24 hours. Furthermore, it doesn’t compromise on long-term development, providing essential brain-building nutrients like DHA and MFGM. For a reliable, fast-acting, and nutritionally complete solution to ease your baby’s gassy tummy, the Enfamil NeuroPro Gentlease Baby Formula 35.2 Oz is our definitive choice.