Constipation In Babies
Some Common Causes And Cures For Constipation In Babies
Constipation in babies is quite common, and there a few very simple explanations for this inconvenient and often uncomfortable condition. Before you run about in a panic and start pumping prune juice into your little bundle, there are some things that you will need to try and consider. First of all, prune juice is great for adults, as we can feel, express, and understand what’s going on with our bodies much easier than an infant can. Children over 2 months of age can benefit from the administering of ½ ounce of prune juice diluted with ½ ounce of sterile water, but even this needs to be approved by your babies doctor before proceeding. Infants under the age of 2 months should not be given any water or fluids aside from formula or breast milk, so you will have to dig deeper for answers and cures.
Formula is the number one cause of constipation in babies, and this is due to the fact that it is not as perfect a food source as is breast milk, though breast milk can also cause binding if mama isn’t careful about what she eats. Formula made of soy may be a better choice for your baby if he is showing signs of constipation. In babies younger than nine months of age, you will want to first consult with a physician, and then switch the formula gradually over a weeks time. This will prevent a severe reaction to the sudden change in nutrients and food composition, making the problem better rather than worse.
The big milestone, that wonderful moment when your baby eats her first solid foods, can also cause constipation. In babies who are fed rice cereal, there are often cases of binding and discomfort. This is not to say that the rice cereal should not be fed, but it may help if you mix a bit of pureed fruit of vegetables in with her normal feeding. Oat or wheat cereal may also be alternated, as all three types will offer her important nutrients and a bit of variety.
Dehydration is also a common cause for constipation in babies, so be careful that you don’t mistake her needs. Most people feel that dehydration causes diarrhea only, but in some cases the opposite is true. You will do well to have your baby checked thoroughly by a trusted pediatrician to determine what the issue is and how to best take care of it. There are a few medical conditions which can also cause constipation in babies, such as hypoglycemia, so if all else fails, your doctor may recommend some tests and treatments to cure the problem.