Your baby cries inconsolably and it seems like nothing can soothe him or her to sleep. You feel helpless, not knowing what to do next—until you realize your baby has constipation! Here, we will help you determine the best baby formula for constipation, so that your baby can return to his or her normal self in no time. Here’s everything you need to know about this issue.
How Babies Get Constipated
Babies may get constipated when they don’t eat enough fiber or fluids, or when their poop becomes too hard and dry. There are a few ways to help a baby who is constipated:
- Keep your baby well-hydrated by giving them enough fluids (breastmilk, formula, water) – Try giving your baby cereal mixed with breastmilk or formula before bedtime.
How Parents Can Deal With Baby Constipation
Parents, when your baby suffers from constipation, it can be both frustrating and worrying. It’s important to know that you are not alone in this situation and there are many things you can do to help. Here are five steps to help you deal with baby constipation:
- Have your baby drink more water each day. This will allow more fiber to move through the digestive system more quickly.
Which Formulas are Right for My Infant?
All babies are different, and what might work for one might not work for another. Babies with constipation may need more fiber, while those with allergies may need a hypoallergenic formula. Check with your pediatrician about which formula is best suited to help your baby’s specific needs.
Cow’s Milk vs. Soy vs. Almond Milk
It can be difficult to determine the best baby formula for constipation as there are many different options on the market. As a general rule, it is best to stay away from dairy-based formulas and stick with plant-based alternatives such as soy or almond milk.
Cow’s milk is the primary ingredient in most American formulas, but this can cause digestive issues in some babies.
Do Probiotics Help Infants with Constipation?
Probiotics are beneficial bacteria that help your body maintain a healthy balance of gut bacteria, which can be upset by things like travel, illness and the general ups and downs of life. Some people believe that probiotics may help with constipation in infants. There are few studies on this topic but one study done in 2015 found that infants who took probiotics were less likely to experience constipation than those who didn’t.
Tips to Determine if Your Baby is Full Grown
Are you wondering if your baby is ready to move on from formula and start solid foods? Here are some things to watch for.
- Smiling. If your baby is looking at you, paying attention, and smiling when you talk to him or her, then it may be time to introduce solids!
- Yawning. If your baby has a wide mouth and yawns often, this could be a sign that he or she is ready for more food.
What Else Can I do to Help My Child?
There are several other things that you can do to help your child if they are suffering from constipation. Some of these include: 1) Keep a healthy diet which includes plenty of fibre and lots of water 2) Make sure that your child is maintaining a regular schedule, going to the bathroom around the same time every day 3) Give your child a high-fibre breakfast cereal like Fruitful O’s or Cheerios 4) Make sure that your child is getting enough exercise.