20 Foods That Cause and Relieve Constipation in Babies

If you are new parents, discussing your baby’s pooping habits must be a regular thing now. You’ll be surprised at how much you think, discuss, and worry about your baby’s poop schedule. If your baby has a hard time passing stool or passes a lot of gas daily, then without a doubt, you will worry and might think of consulting your baby’s paediatrician at odd hours. We understand your concern, but there is no need to panic. Your little one might be suffering from constipation, and it is very common in babies and toddlers.

A child’s pooping habits will depend on his eating habits. There are some foods which tend to constipate babies, especially when you start giving them solid foods. Read on to know about the various foods that can cause and relieve constipation in children, and foods to help baby poop, find out how you can ensure that your child has a good bowel movement.

Video: 20 Foods That Cause and Relieve Constipation in Babies

How Solid And Liquid Foods Affect Constipation In Babies?

As a parent, it can be hard to watch your little one struggle with constipation. Luckily, there are some things you can do to help, including adjusting their diet. The type of food your baby eats can play a big role in their digestive health, so it’s important to pay attention to what you’re feeding them. In particular, both solid and liquid foods can affect constipation in babies in different ways. Here are some things to keep in mind:

1. Solid Food

Introducing solid foods to your baby’s diet can be an exciting milestone, but it can also be a bit tricky when it comes to constipation. Certain solid foods can be constipating for babies, so it’s important to introduce them gradually and watch for any changes in bowel movements. Foods to be cautious of include bananas, applesauce, rice cereal, and cheese.

2. Liquid Food

When it comes to liquid foods, breastmilk or formula should be your baby’s main source of nutrition for the first several months. However, certain types of liquid foods can also be helpful in preventing constipation. Prune juice is a well-known constipation reliever, but you can also try other fruit juices like pear, apple, or grape. It’s important to dilute these juices with water and only offer small amounts to avoid giving your baby too much sugar.

By being mindful of what your baby is eating and making small adjustments to their diet, you can help ease their discomfort and keep them happy and healthy.

Is Constipation Painful For Babies?

Constipation is no fun for anyone, and that includes babies. In fact, constipation can be quite painful for little ones, who may be too young to understand what’s going on. When your baby is constipated, they may strain or cry during bowel movements, and their stools may be hard or pebble-like. You may also notice that your baby is more irritable or fussy than usual, which can be a sign that they’re in discomfort. It’s important to address constipation in babies as soon as possible to prevent it from becoming a chronic issue. Fortunately, there are many gentle remedies you can try, including offering more water, increasing fiber in the diet, and massaging your baby’s belly. With a little patience and TLC, you can help your little one find relief and get back to their happy, bubbly selves.

Foods That Cause Constipation in Infants

If your child has just started eating solid foods and he is having difficulty in passing stool or has a dry and hard stool, then it is a sign of constipation. Baby’s fluid intake and diet will determine his bowel movements. Here is a list of foods that cause constipation in babies.

1. Milk Protein

Milk protein can cause constipation in babies. Milk proteins other than in the breast milk can cause this problem, and as a parent, you need to be careful once you start giving formula milk to your baby. Sometimes, babies may even develop an allergy to the protein present in breast milk, which may result in constipation.

2. Formula Food

Babies are often fed formula in their early years. Formula food consists of ingredients that are difficult to digest, which might result in constipation. Formula milk even contains complex proteins that may harden the poop and thus cause constipation.

3. Rice

Rice and porridge are the two solid food for babies that most mothers think of introducing as the first food to their babies. But some babies may find it hard to digest rice and may feel constipated.

4. Carrots

Carrots, when given raw or in the form of juice, are usually good for babies. But, if you feed steam-cooked carrots to your baby, then he might feel constipated. Steamed carrots tend to solidify the poop making it difficult for babies to excrete.

5. Raw Bananas

Babies are often fed raw bananas, as cooked vegetable, or as a porridge made out of sun-dried raw banana powder. Although giving a ripe banana is good, unripe banana is not. If you give an unripe banana to your baby, he might feel constipated and have gastric problem. Under-ripe or unripe bananas have starch in them, which can be hard for a baby to digest.

6. Apples

Apples are known to harden the stool so eating them while suffering from diarrhoea can help. But steamed apples, a popular baby food, can cause constipation in babies. So don’t give steamed apples to your baby. Also avoid giving applesauce to your baby as it contains pectin protein, which hardens the stool.

7. Cheese

Cheese is an excellent source of many essential vitamins and minerals and is a superfood for babies. It is usually given to babies as a snack. However, cheese is low in fibre and can cause constipation.

8. White Bread

White bread, made with all-purpose flour, is a processed form of grain and is low in fibre. Fibrous foods are known to improve digestion. However, white bread lacks fibre in substantial quantity and can cause constipation in babies.

9. Potatoes

Regular potatoes with skin have about 3 gm of fibre and can prevent constipation. If you give your baby potatoes with other veggies, then it won’t be a problem. However, if you give him potato chips or potatoes with butter or sour cream, then he may suffer from constipation.

10. Yoghurt

Yoghurt contains good bacteria that facilitate digestion. But, it also has a binding effect on food substances and sometimes may cause constipation in children.

Foods That Help Relieve Constipation in Infants

Now that you know which foods cause constipation in babies, so avoid incorporating them into your baby’s diet. If your baby is already suffering from constipation, then include these high-fibre foods in your baby’s diet. These foods will not only relieve the condition but also prevent it from occurring in future.

1. Prunes

Prunes are rich in fibre and a great source of multivitamins. Being a good source of fibre, they can ease and speed up the bowel movements. Prunes can be soaked overnight and given to a baby first thing in the morning. You can also give your baby prune juice. Prunes and prune juice are an excellent remedy for constipation.

2. Beans

Beans are packed with fibre and can be included in a baby’s diet if he is suffering from constipation. Eating beans will improve his bowel movements. As beans contain both soluble and insoluble fibre, it will help in digestion of food and help your little one excrete properly.

3. Green Peas

Fresh green peas available in winters are loaded with fibre – they are a perfect food to include in your baby’s diet if he is constipated. Peas can be given as a simple snack by just boiling and seasoning. Infants can be given boiled peas in the pureed form to aid bowel movements. 

4. Apricots

Apricots are another seasonal fruit used for treating constipation. It can be given raw or in the form of juice. Dried apricots are also available in the market, which can be soaked overnight and given to babies.

5. Oatmeal

Oatmeal, a common and widely preferred food for babies, is an excellent food for children with recurrent episodes of constipation. Oatmeal can provide your baby with much-needed fibre and can prevent constipation.

6. Pears

Pears are rich in fibre and Vitamin C. Both fibre and Vitamin C aid in proper digestion and relieve constipation. Babies can also be given a few drops of fresh pear juice to cure constipation.

7. Broccoli

Broccoli, a superfood for babies, is a rich source of protein and fibre. Broccoli is also a good source of fibre, Vitamin C, Vitamin K, and folate. Green vegetables like spinach and broccoli add weight to stools, making them easier to pass through the gut. You can give small steamed broccoli florets to your baby as finger food. Broccoli also contains sulforaphane, which may protect the gut and aid digestion.

8. Sweet Potatoes

Sweet potatoes, unlike other tubers, are one of the best baby foods and they do not cause constipation. Sweet potatoes can help in relieving constipation and provide essential nutrients and carbohydrates to your growing baby.

9. Berries

Berries are rich in antioxidants and are an excellent food for babies and toddlers. They are also high in fibre, which is why they are a must-include in your baby’s diet. You can give berries to your baby in pureed form. By eating berries, your little tot won’t complain of constipation.

10. Whole Grain Bread

Whole grains foods have high fibre content in them, which is good for the heart as well as for the digestive system. You can give whole wheat bread to your baby – it is high in fibre and will prevent constipation in your little one.

Food Recipes/Purees To Help Baby’s Constipation

Got a constipated baby on your hands? We feel you, parents. It’s tough to watch your little one struggle with something as uncomfortable as constipation. But fear not, we’ve got some food remedies that might just do the trick!

Here are 5 delicious purees that can help ease your baby’s constipation:

1. Prune puree

This recipe is simple to make and delicious to devour. With 3 simple ingredients, you’ll be making a treat in less than 30 minutes, so let’s get going!

What You Will Need

• 2 cups pitted prunes
• 1 cup water
• 1 tsp lemon juice
• 1 tsp ginger paste

How To Make:

1. Combine all ingredients in a saucepan and bring to a boil.
2. Reduce heat and let it simmer for 20 minutes.
3. Puree the mixture until it’s smooth.

2. Apple and pear puree

This puree is the best mix of fruits and to get well hydrated while you’re at it. Combining the goodness of apples and pears, this one is a definite favourite for your little ones!

What Will You Need

• 2 apples, peeled and cored
• 2 pears, peeled and cored
• 1/2 cup water

How To Make:

1. Steam the apples and pears for about 15-20 minutes until they’re soft.
2. Blend the fruit with water until you get a smooth consistency.

3. Avocado and pear puree

Who doesn’t love themselves a fresh ripe avocado, and combine that with a juicy pear, there’s a dish no one can resist. So get your spoons and dig in!

What Will You Need

• 1 avocado, peeled and pitted
• 2 pears, peeled and cored
• 1/2 cup water

How To Make:

1. Steam the pears for about 15-20 minutes until they’re soft.
2. Blend the avocado, pear, and water until you get a smooth consistency.

4. Sweet potato puree

Sweet potatoes are a staple growing up and not only are they delicious but they’re gentle on the stomach too. Your little one is going to thank you and come back asking for more, with this recipe, trust us.

What Will You Need

• 1 sweet potato, peeled and chopped
• 1/2 cup water

How To Make:

1. Steam the sweet potato for about 20-25 minutes until it’s soft.
2. Blend the sweet potato and water until you get a smooth consistency.

5. Prune and apple puree

The prune and apple puree may be the easiest dish out there to ensure your little one’s tummy gets that cooling relief.  A simple 15 minute preparation, 2 fruits and a bowl of goodness!

What Will You Need

• 1 cup pitted prunes
• 2 apples, peeled and cored
• 1/2 cup water

How To Make:

1. Steam the apples for about 15-20 minutes until they’re soft.
2. Blend the prunes, apples, and water until you get a smooth consistency.

There you have it, folks! These purees are not only delicious but can also help your baby poop like a champ. Try them out and let us know which ones your little one loves.

Does Juice Help To Relieve Constipation In Baby?

Got a constipated baby and wondering if juice can help? We know you’re desperate for a quick solution, but hold on a minute!

While juice might seem like an easy fix, it’s important to choose the right kind of juice for your baby. Some juices, like apple and prune juice, can help relieve constipation due to their high fiber and sorbitol content. But other juices, like pear and peach juice, can actually make things worse.

So, if you’re considering juice as a solution, be sure to consult with your pediatrician first. They can guide you on which juice to use and in what quantity. Remember, your baby’s health is the top priority!

But hey, if you’re not keen on giving your baby juice, we’ve got you covered with some food remedies that can help ease constipation. Check out our previous post for 5 delicious purees that can get things moving in the right direction.

What Else You Can Do To Ease Your Baby’s Constipation?

Uh-oh, does your baby seem to be struggling with constipation? We know how tough it can be, but there are some other things you can try to ease their discomfort.

Here are 3 simple tips to help get things moving:

1. Increase fluid intake

• Offer water or breast milk/formula more frequently.
• If your baby has started solids, try offering pureed fruits and vegetables with a high water content, such as watermelon or cucumber.

2. Encourage physical activity

• Give your baby tummy time or encourage them to crawl or roll around.
• Gentle belly massages or bicycle leg movements can also help stimulate bowel movements.

3. Adjust feeding habits

• If your baby is formula-fed, consider switching to a formula that contains prebiotics and probiotics.
• For babies who have started solids, offer high-fiber foods like oatmeal, whole-grain cereals, or pureed beans.

Remember, it’s important to consult with your pediatrician before trying any remedies or making changes to your baby’s diet. But with a little patience and perseverance, you can help your little one find relief from constipation. Good luck, parents!

FAQs

1. How Will You Know That Your Baby is Constipated?

If your baby is constipated, he obviously won’t be unable to communicate that to you. So watch out for these signs of constipation in him –

• He has three or fewer than three bowel movements in a week.
• His stools are hard and dry.
• He has a hard time pooping.
• He cries continuously and has a stomach ache.

2. How Can You Prevent Constipation in Your Baby?

To prevent and treat constipation in babies, here’s what you can do:

1. If your baby has crossed the six-month mark, you can make him sip water in small amounts. Before six months, he will get all the hydration he needs through breast milk. Later, you can start with foods that contain water and fibre, as water and fibre will improve his bowel movements.

2. Include high-fibre foods in his diet. Make prunes, berries, whole grains, and pulses in his diet as they are high in fibre content and aid digestion.

3. Get your child into the habit of pooping. Once he is ready for potty training, make sure you make him sit on the toilet seat for at least 10 minutes at about the same time daily. It will get him into the habit of going to the toilet.

3. Is Apple Juice Good For Constipation In Babies?

If you’re dealing with a constipated little one, you might be wondering if apple juice could be the magic potion to get things moving. Well, the good news is that apple juice can be helpful in relieving constipation in babies! Apples contain a natural sugar alcohol called sorbitol that can help soften stools and make them easier to pass. But don’t go overboard with the apple juice, as too much can have the opposite effect and lead to diarrhea. As with any new food or drink, it’s best to introduce apple juice in small amounts and monitor your baby’s reaction. And don’t forget to consult with your paediatrician if you have any concerns!

4. Can Avocado Cause Constipation In Infants?

Ah, the age-old question of whether or not to add avocado to your baby’s diet. If you’re worried that this trendy fruit might back up your little one’s pipes, fear not! Avocado is actually a great food for promoting healthy digestion in infants. It’s packed with healthy fats and fiber, which can help keep things moving smoothly through the digestive tract. So, you can feel free to whip up some guacamole for your little guac-star without worrying about any unfortunate constipation consequences. Of course, as with any new food, it’s always a good idea to introduce avocado slowly and keep an eye on your baby’s reaction. And as always, check in with your paediatrician if you have any concerns.

5. Is Gripe Water Good For Baby Constipation?

There’s magical elixir known as gripe water! If your little one is suffering from constipation, you might be tempted to reach for this beloved remedy. However, while gripe water can be helpful for soothing a fussy baby’s tummy, it’s not necessarily the best solution for constipation. Gripe water typically contains a blend of herbs and spices, like fennel and ginger, which can help ease gas and bloating. But it doesn’t contain any ingredients specifically targeted at relieving constipation.

So, if your baby is backed up, you might want to try some other remedies, like a warm bath or massage, before turning to gripe water. And, as always, check with your paediatrician if you have any concerns about your baby’s digestion.

6. Does Teething Cause Constipation?

Ah, teething! That magical time in a baby’s life when they discover the joys of drooling, chewing on everything in sight, and generally making their parents feel like they’re losing their minds. But can teething also cause constipation? While there’s no scientific evidence to support the idea that teething directly causes constipation, it is possible that changes in a baby’s diet during teething could lead to constipation.

For example, if a breastfed baby is cutting teeth and their mom is eating a lot of foods that cause constipation, like cheese or bananas, it’s possible that the baby could become constipated as a result. So, as always, it’s important to be mindful of what you’re eating when breastfeeding and to make sure your baby is getting plenty of fluids and fibre-rich foods to keep things moving smoothly. And when in doubt, consult with your paediatrician!

Many times, parents go through a lot of stress when their babies suffer from constipation. Whether its about foods that cause constipation in breastfed babies, or their dietary requirements, if your child is constipated, don’t worry. By making slight changes in his diet and encouraging him to do some physical activity (however, small) regularly can cure constipation and other stomach-related problems in him. However, if the problem persists and your baby doesn’t feel better, consult a doctor.

Also Read: Indigestion in Children