Constipation in babies starting solids: Is it normal?
Constipation in babies starting solids is a very common complaint and one that can be quite distressing for both the baby and parents.
It is normal for your babies bowel habits to change when moving from breastmilk or formula to solid foods. But is constipation normal, and should you be concerned?
What is constipation in babies?
Constipation causes a lot of worry with parents which is understandable as it can lead to a lot of discomfort.
But what is constipation in babies and what isn't?
Constipation is when your babies stools become hard and difficult to pass. Poos that are dry, firm and resemble bunny droppings are common in babies with constipation. Your baby will also demonstrate if they are constipated with intense straining and redness in the face.
It's not uncommon for baby's not to poo daily. The frequency of your babies bowel movements will depend on several factors including whether they are breastfed, formula-fed and how much solid foods they are consuming. The development of your baby's digestive system will also affect their bowel movements.
When introducing your baby to solids, it's normal to notice changes in their poo texture, colour, smell and amount.
Ideally, once they move predominately onto solids, they should be passing one stool easily a day.
What could be causing my babies constipation when introducing solid foods?
If you're introducing solids to your baby, you may notice:
Your baby is pooing more often
Your baby is pooing less frequently
The colour of your baby's poo is darker or light
Your baby's poo smells more or different
There is undigested food in your baby's poo
Your child's appetite has decreased.
When they are consuming formula or breastmilk, there isn't much to break down, process and digest.
When you introduce solids, your baby's digestive system needs to adapt and work harder to break down the proteins and fibres in the whole foods, even if it's just purée. There are more digestive enzymes to help digest these new foods.
While your baby's digestive system is still developing, the small intestines are now becoming better at forming stool through compacting the matter and reabsorbing the water. This can reduce the frequency of bowel movements and cause all sorts of changes in the appearance of stool.
Starting your baby on solids too early can cause constipation. The type of diet is also a big contributing factor. Diets low in fibre, high in dairy products, high in iron, frequent intake of constipating foods or a lack of fluids can cause or worsen your baby's constipation.
The presence of an intolerance or allergy and your diet (if breastfeeding) can lead to chronic infant constipation.
We also know, your baby's gut health and digestive system function is also contributing factor to the regularity of your child's bowel movements.
Should I be concerned about my baby's constipation?
Changes to your baby's bowel movements are normal when introducing solid foods. Remember, digestion is an adaptation process so there is usually a period of adjustment.
If you're noticing the occasional bout of constipation in your baby as you introduce more solid foods, this shouldn't be cause for alarm.
However, if constipation is reoccurring or if you're seeing blood or mucous in your baby's stool you should get support from your health care practitioner.
Our nutritionist or naturopath team can help to identify the cause of your baby's constipation by assessing if there are underlying issues such as digestive problems, intolerances or an allergy.
We can offer dietary and lifestyle strategies to help stimulate bowel movements and keep things flowing while you continue to expand your baby's diet.
Getting to the bottom (pardon the pun) of the issue during a consultation can help prevent further complications later on such as undesirable toilet behaviours, nutritional deficiencies or fussy eating.
Let's hope your and your baby's struggle with constipation is short-lived.
If you are concerned about your baby’s constipation or changes in their bowel movements, we’re here to help. Book a complimentary wellness call with us to put a plan in place.