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Five Natural Ways To Relieve Infant Constipation

Anyone can suffer from constipation. It is fairly common. As a matter of fact, not even babies are exempted. There are so many factors that can cause constipation. According to the National Digestive Diseases Information Clearinghouse or NDDIC, constipation is having a bowel movement less than three times a week.

Somebody who is constipated normally suffer from straining and difficulty eliminating dry and hard stools. Also, other symptoms of constipation are bloating and lower abdominal pain.

When it comes to babies, constipation is defined in a different way. Customarily, what is observed is the consistency or the condition of the bowel and not the frequency of having a bowel movement. It is acceptable for babies not to have bowel movement for a number of days most especially the newborns.

How To Tell If Your Child Is Constipated

Constipation is difficult to determine in babies. As mentioned earlier, it is acceptable for babies not to pass out stools after several days, most especially babies who are nursed by their mommies. Furthermore, babies cry a lot, making it more difficult to tell if the baby is suffering from pain or just annoyed.

To tell if the baby is constipated, check the stools if they are hard and looks like pellets or if they are too large. In addition, if babies are having hard time to relieve themselves and may have frequent cries due to discomfort, this is a clear indication of constipation.

Safe Home Remedies To Relieve Constipation In Babies

Many parents will consult their physicians each time the child is upset. This is a good thing. However, there are some home remedies which mothers can do to help soothe this condition.

1. Nursing The Baby Or Reducing The Number Of Milk Formulas

This is the safest and most effective remedy to help alleviate the pain and discomfort of constipation. If the baby is fed with formula milk, it is expedient to cut down the number of scoops and add more water. Increasing the amount of water can assist to soften the stools.

2. Hydrolyzed Formula

Babies who are suffering from constipation may receive hydrolyzed formulas to assist normalize the bowel movements. Proteins in milk are broken down into smaller pieces which make it easier to assimilate.

3. Corn Syrup

To alleviate constipation, corn syrups can be added in baby's feeding milk. Adding sugar in the feeding can help entice fluids. It can make bowels softer and easier to eradicate.

4. Prune Juice

This type of juice can be given to babies who are not under six weeks of age. Prune juices have sorbitol, a sugar which acts as a natural stool-loosening agent that naturally helps in relieving constipation. Sorbitol is also colonic stimulant that leniently helps to expedite the transit time of the stools.

5. Tummy Massage And Warm Bath

Tummy massages and warm baths can make the baby’s muscles to loosen. This approach can also help in relieving pain and discomfort of constipation.

Constipation is not life threatening still it is a very discomforting experience. It can be a very painful experience for babies and may cause parents to worry and to become distressed. This condition may be prevented by proper baby diet. On the other hand, if constipation occurs, which is most likely to happen, these home remedies are very efficient and safe. Although these home remedies have no hazardous side effects, is it still suggested to visit doctors and pediatricians first for proper prognosis and accurate management.

By: Daryl B. Chapman

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