Just like us, when your bubba is constipated they'll be bloated, sore and grumpy.
It can also impact their dietary intake as they won't want to eat when they are uncomfortably full.
Obviously prevention is best, so in this video I'm going to explain how to avoid constipation
in babies.
Stay tuned!
Hello!
If this is our first time connecting, welcome!
My name is Melanie McGrice and I'm a pre and postnatal dietitian.
I help couples give their baby's the best start possible with the power of good food.
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Firstly, just because your baby doesn't open their bowels every day or strains when they
poo, doesn't necessarily mean that your baby is constipated.
Constipation is defined as difficulty, delay or pain on defecation, with dry, hard stools
like a 'sausage' or 'rabbit droppings' - and foul-smelling wind.
When a baby is constipated, they usually experience less than three complete stools per week.
But if that's the only symptom, don't worry.
Now, before we get into my tips, it is important to note that constipation can also be a symptom
of more serious underlying causes, so if symptoms persist it is best to see the healthcare professional.
More serious conditions associated with constipation can include:
Hirschsprungs disease - which is a disorder that occurs when part of the large intestine
has no nerves and therefore cannot function.
Behavioiural problems - resulting from a fear of going to the toilet in public,
or a Cows' milk protein allergy.
So, presuming that there's no underlying issues, let's discuss how to avoid constipation in babies.
Number 1: if possible, continue to breastfeed.
Constipation is much more rare in breastfed babies than in formula fed babies which is
believed to be due to natural prebiotics and other compounds found in breastmilk.
If your baby needs to drink formula and constipation is a recurring issue, speak to your dietitian
about the best formula for your baby.
Secondly, ensure that your baby is getting adequate fluid.
Dehydration is a common cause for constipation.
As long as your baby is a healthy weight, they can start drinking water from a sippy
cup from around 6 months of age.
If your baby is younger, speak to your dietitian about whether they require more feeds.
Number 3: Encourage physical activity.
Physical activity gets the muscles of their bowel working.
In a young baby, this may look like gently assisting them to lift their legs and providing
adequate opportunities for tummy time.
In an older infant, limit screen time and encourage active play instead.
Number 4: Once your baby has started solids, ensure your baby consumes soluble fibre every day.
Soluble fibre is fibre that absorbs fluid which helps to soften their poo.
Great examples for little ones include pasta, bananas and porridges.
Number 5: As soon as possible, introduce insoluble fibre.
Insoluble fibre is fibre that helps to speed up transit time of your baby's bowel motions.
The skins on fruit and veggies, and seeds and grains all contain insoluble fibre.
Now, obviously these can be a choking risk, so you need to be really careful about introducing
insoluble fibre, but when possible, good options for little ones include blueberries, grating
the soft skin of vegetables such as zucchini and carrots into minced meat or veggie patties
and choosing multigrain bread.
If you have any further questions, please feel free to reach out.
And I look forward to seeing you in my next video!