Managing Constipation with Babyfood Introduction

Constipation is not an uncommon experience with the introduction of solids for babies.  While this is not uncommon, there are lots of things to consider to help to prevent it, and/or to manage if it becomes part of a baby's experience. 

1. Consider is the total amount of solid intake:

Breastmilk or formula are still intended to be the primary source of baby's nutrition until around 12 months of age, and so we want to be cautious that we're not increasing solids too quickly.

For most babies, starting at one meal a day and waiting to increase to two meals until closer to 8 or 9 months is preferred. We may not add in three meals until closer to 10 or 11 months. This depends on a number of different factors which would be different for every baby but this works well for most babies.

2. Consider is iron fortification:

While we know that iron is absolutely an essential nutrient for babies, the fortified foods have a higher potential for constipation. There are lots of easier to digest sources of iron that do not include fortified cereals.  

3. Water intake is another important thing to assess:

We want to offer water with meals.  Be mindful that water intake is not replacing formula or breast milk intake, but learning the skill of managing water and increasing the fluids in that way can help to manage constipation. 

The recommendation is to start with 2 oz with each meal maximum.  And then maybe increase from there depending on breastmilk/formula intake, food intake and bowel movements.

4. Supporting the intake of fibrous foods also helps with constipation:

Some great options include: kiwi, pears, prunes, berries, oats, broccoli, beans, chia seeds, lentils… 

We also want to be mindful of the total amount of starchy foods, meat, dairy products and processed foods (which we generally want to avoid anyways) as these are more constipating.

Clockwise belly rubs help to move things along in the baby's digestive tract. They can be done during diaper changes, or any time of day, to support bowel movements.

There are a variety of other things to consider. Sometimes we will use stool softeners or laxatives, probiotics, physical therapy, and other dietary changes to support bowel regularity. 

We really don't want baby to be constipated. They can start to develop fear around having bowel movement which then exacerbates the process.

If your baby is struggling with constipation, getting early support is helpful!

If you're looking for support with feeding your baby, my next FREE virtual Baby Food Introductory Class is coming up on 

May 8th at 9:30AM.

Can't make it live? No worries! A recording of the class is sent to all who registered afterwards!