12 Natural Ways To Stop Constipation In Infants (#5 Is Super Easy!)

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9. Probiotics

One study, published in the JAMA Pediatrics Journal in 2014, found that infants, who consumed lactobacillus during the first three months of life, had reduced episodes of gastrointestinal disorders such as reflux, colic, and constipation. Probiotics are loaded with live bacteria, similar to the ones already present in our digestive systems. You can give your baby probiotics by feeding them a bit of plain yogurt that contains live cultures, or you can speak to your pediatrician about a probiotic supplement that would be beneficial for your little one.

10. Prunes

You probably already know that prunes, which are dried plums, are some of the best remedies for constipation for adults but most people do not know that prunes also work for infants and children. For infants up to six months, give one to two tablespoons of prune juice in four ounces of water, formula, or breast milk. Give this to your baby once or twice a day. Over six months of age, you can simply add some diluted prune juice to your baby’s formula. If you have started your baby on solid food, you can offer them some pureed prunes. Prunes can irritate some infants, so you might want to speak to your pediatrician first.

11. Fennel Seeds

Fennel seeds encourage smooth muscle movements in the digestive tract, which can ease overall digestion as well as encourage regular bowel movements. Fennel seeds also prevent gas. To use fennel seeds, boil one teaspoon of crushed fennel seeds in two cups of water. Allow this mix to simmer for 10 minutes, then strain and allow to cool completely. Give one to two teaspoon of fennel water to your baby three times each day. If you are breastfeeding, drink fennel tea two or three times each day.

12. Increase Fluids

For regular bowel movements and softer stools, proper hydration is essential. For small babies, water and milk are sufficient enough to keep them hydrated, prevent gas pains and constipation. Give your baby water at regular intervals. To improve digestion, warm the water slightly. Be sure that you offer your baby plenty to drink throughout the day. If you are unsure exactly how much your baby should be drinking, speak with your pediatrician.

Extra Tips:

Breastfeeding mothers should limit the amount of dairy products in their diet
Do not give your baby over the counter medicine for constipation unless your doctor has given you the OK
Avoid giving your baby foods that tend to constipate the body including bananas, cooked carrots, and rice
Avoid formulas thickened with rice cereal
Do not treat infant constipation with several of the above treatments at the same time. Choose only one treatment at a time
For babies under nine months, avoid citrus fruits as the acids in these fruits are hard on young tummies

References:

http://www.bsg.org.uk

http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov

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