Determining what may be causing colic and trying new ways to soothe babies can help both parents and their children.

Taking care of a baby is no small task.

Babies operate on their own schedules, forcing parents to consistently readjust when they eat, work and, of course, sleep.

Various factors can make such adjustments especially tiring, and colic might be at the top of that list.

The American Academy of Family Physicians, or AAFP, notes that colic occurs when an otherwise healthy baby cries or fusses frequently for no apparent reason. All babies cry and fuss, and it's important that parents do not misinterpret normal crying and fussing as colic.

Colic is defined as crying for more than three hours per day at least three days per week for more than three weeks.

How can colic be treated?- Feeding the baby: Breastfeeding mothers can document what they're eating to determine if there's any rhyme or reason behind their babies' colic. Document when the baby exhibits symptoms of colic as well, and then look for patterns. If a child tends to be colicky after breastfeeding mothers eat a certain food, then moms can cut that food out of their diets to see if that's what is triggering the episode.- Formula: The AAFP notes that babies may be sensitive to certain proteins in formula, so treating colic may be as simple as changing brands. Slowing down formula feedings also may work, as it can ensure babies are not eating too much and/or too quickly.- Holding the baby: How a baby is held or rocked may help reduce symptoms of colic. Massaging a baby's back while holding the baby across your arm or lap might work. In addition, holding the baby in the evening and while walking also can help. If a baby has gas, holding the child upright might alleviate the pains contributing to colic.