What To Do If Baby Is Constipated After Starting Solids?

What To Do If Baby Is Constipated After Starting Solids?

Constipation in babies after introducing solids can be concerning. There are a couple of primary reasons why this might occur:

  • Dietary Imbalance: A diet heavy in meats and low in vegetables can lead to insufficient fibre intake, resulting in constipation.
  • Allergies: Constipation can sometimes be a sign of an allergy. Certain foods in your baby's diet might be triggering this reaction. Identifying and eliminating these allergens is crucial.

If allergies are suspected, a "dietary avoidance" strategy is necessary. Ensure your baby's meals are free from potential allergens and maintain a balanced diet for healthy growth.

If allergies aren't the issue, here's how to help relieve your baby's constipation:

  1. Balanced Diet:

    Alongside their daily milk intake, ensure a balanced diet with plenty of fruits and vegetables, and a good mix of meat and veg. Consider supplementing with dietary fibre (e.g., prebiotics) to encourage healthy gut bacteria and prevent constipation caused by intestinal issues.

  2. Increase Fluid Intake:

    Dehydration can lead to hard, dry stools, making it difficult for your baby to pass a bowel movement. Offer warm water to increase their fluid intake.

  3. Encourage Movement:

    Physical activity aids digestion. Encourage crawling, rolling, and walking. For younger babies, gentle leg exercises can help:

    • Bicycle Legs: Gently move your baby’s legs as if they are riding a bicycle.
    • Knee-to-Chest: Gently push their knees alternately towards their abdomen.

What Exercises Help Babies Poop?

As mentioned above, bicycle leg movements and knee-to-chest exercises are very helpful. Tummy time also helps with bowel movements.

Newborn Constipation:

Constipation in newborns, especially those exclusively breastfed, is less common but can happen. It is important to know the difference between infrequent stooling and actual constipation. Newborns can sometimes go several days without a stool, and this does not always mean they are constipated.

How to Relieve Constipation in Newborn Babies Quickly:

  • Gentle Tummy Massage: Gently massage their tummy in a clockwise direction.
  • Warm Bath: A warm bath can relax their muscles and ease discomfort.
  • Rectal Stimulation: If your doctor advises, a lubricated rectal thermometer tip can gently stimulate a bowel movement. Never do this without consulting a medical professional.

When Should I Worry About Baby Constipation?

  • If your baby's stools are hard, dry, and pebble-like.
  • If they strain excessively or cry while passing stools.
  • If there's blood in their stools.
  • If they experience a significant change in bowel habits.
  • If your baby is vomiting, or their stomach is distended.
  • If you are concerned about your newborn, and they have not had a bowel movement for several days.
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