How To Prevent and Manage Baby Constipation When Starting Solids?

As a new parent, you’ll likely find yourself discussing your baby’s bowel movements more than you ever expected. While it might seem overwhelming, monitoring your baby’s nappies is actually an important part of keeping them healthy — changes in their poo can signal if something’s wrong.

Baby constipation occurs when your little one passes hard, dry bowel movements. The good news? It’s uncommon in babies under 6 months old and typically only becomes an issue as they transition to solid foods.

How Can You Recognise If Your Child is Constipated?

Many parents worry unnecessarily about constipation. It’s completely normal for babies to strain, make noises, or turn red when having a bowel movement – as long as their poo remains soft.

Watch for these warning signs^[1]:

• Hard, dry stools that look like pebbles
• Blood in the stool
• Excessive crying or distress during bowel movements
• Refusing to feed due to tummy discomfort
• Prolonged crying that seems related to discomfort

Causes of Baby Constipation When Starting Solids

Several factors can affect your baby’s bowel movements:

• Feeding Method: Breastfed babies experience constipation less often than formula-fed babies because breast milk contains different fats, proteins, and minerals that are easier to digest.
• Dietary Transition: As your baby starts eating solid foods, constipation becomes more likely due to inadequate fibre or fluid^[2].

Solutions by Age Group

Before the use of medications, there are some home remedies you can try.

Babies under 6 months (breastfeeding)

• Increase fluids by offering more feeds throughout the day.
• There is the potential that something you are eating or drinking could be causing your baby to be constipated^[3]. A dietitian can help with an elimination diet if needed.

Babies under 6 months (formula fed)

• Double-check that you are making the formula exactly as follows the instructions on the tin. Too much formula or too little water can lead to constipation.
• Increase fluids by offering extra drinks of cooled boiled water.
• Try changing the formula to a different brand^[4]. Different brands of infant formulas have different ingredients that may help to soften your baby’s stools. In particular, a formula fortified with prebiotics such as galacto-oligosaccharides (GOS) may be helpful^[5]. Breastmilk is rich in Human Milk Oligosaccharides (HMO), which are believed to be the reason why breastmilk-fed babies experience constipation significantly less frequently than formula-fed babies.  Increasing evidence suggests that baby formulas containing oligosaccharides such as GOS may be helpful to reduce constipation in babies^[6]. It may be helpful to speak to a paediatric dietitian to get advice on the best type of formula for your baby’s requirements.
• Consider trying a course of infant probiotics^[7].

Babies over 6 months:

• Increase fiber-rich foods:
  • Whole grains and oats
  • Seeds, beans, and lentils
  • Vegetables and fruits (especially prunes, kiwifruit, plums, and pears)
• Encourage water intake with meals and between meals using a sippy cup
• Try a warm bath to relax bowel muscles
• Offer small amounts of 100% natural prune, pear, or apple juice
• Consider probiotics (consult your healthcare provider first)^[8].

When to Seek Professional Help

If you’re still concerned about your baby’s bowel movements or diet, a pediatric dietitian can:

• Perform a detailed nutrition assessment
• Provide personalized advice for your baby’s specific needs
• Help ensure optimal digestive health

Remember, every baby is different, and what works for one might not work for another. Trust your instincts, and don’t hesitate to seek professional guidance when needed.

Disclaimer: This guide is for informational purposes only and should not be used to diagnose health conditions or make changes to medical treatments. Always consult with your healthcare professional for advice.