Formula-Fed Newborns And Constipation
It is very important for parents to figure out if their baby is suffering from constipation. Constipation is the difficulty to pass stool, not the inability to have a bowel movement. It means that irregular bowel movements do not necessarily cause constipation. Instead, it is important to pay attention to the texture and consistency of your baby’s stool. For example, if your baby’s stool is hard, dry, and looks like tiny pellets, he/she may be dealing with constipation.
For example, if your formula-fed baby has irregular movements, but their stool is pretty soft and appears normal, they may not have constipation. Furthermore, your baby turning red while pooping is absolutely normal. Your baby may be dealing with constipation if their stools are hard, dry, and look like tiny pellets.
Are Formula-Fed Babies More Prone To Constipation?
It is true that formula-fed babies are more likely to be constipated than breastfed babies. Breast milk serves as a natural laxative and can easily be digested by babies. On the other hand, baby formulas have larger proteins that cannot be easily digested and cause gastrointestinal problems, among which the most common is constipation.
This doesn’t mean that all formula-fed babies experience constipation, or it is impossible that a breastfed baby will never have constipation. Every baby has a different digestive system. When you introduce solids into your breastfed or formula-fed baby’s diet, it is common to see symptoms of constipation in your infant.
Signs Your Baby Is Constipated
Constipation is a common digestive issue in newborns and can be challenging to resolve. The following are some signs of constipation:
- Hard, dry stools that can appear like hard balls and rocks.
- Swollen belly with gas.
- Baby cries in pain while passing stools.
- Blood in the stool.
- Having bowel movements fewer than 3 weeks.
- Lack of interest in food.
It is important to make an appointment with your healthcare professional if your baby has any of the above-mentioned signs of constipation.
Common Issues Leading To Constipation In Formula-Fed Babies
Breastfed babies are less likely to be constipated than formula-fed babies and those who are transitioning to solid food. Below are some causes of constipation in formula-fed babies:
1. Thick Formulas
One common cause of constipation in your formula-fed babies is a thicker formula. The formula is denser than breastmilk, which means the GI tract of the baby takes more time to process it. Using too much of a thick formula leads to constipation and dehydration.
2. Rice-Based Formula
If you’re giving your baby a rice-based formula, it may lead to constipation in your baby. Commonly, acid reflux formulas use rice in their formulas that are much thicker and need more time to be processed in the baby’s GI tract. This can lead to gas and constipation.
3. Milk Allergies
If your baby is allergic to milk protein or has lactose intolerance, the development of constipation will be inevitable.
Should You Switch Baby Formula To Help Your Constipated Baby?
If your baby’s formula is causing frequent constipation, then you should change the formula with a better one.
However, switching baby formula from one brand to another too often can make things even worse. Give your baby’s digestive system a couple of weeks to adopt the new formula. Also, don’t forget to consult your baby’s pediatrician.
Why Are European Formulas Better For Your Baby’s Health?
Europe-based formulas strictly follow the guidelines of the European Commission, which is similar to the U.S. FDA. The only difference between the EU and FDA is that EU rules and regulations are more stringent for the production of infant formula.
Traditional American baby formulas are manufactured using cheap and processed ingredients with empty calories that give no nutritional benefits to infants. Many pediatricians call these American formulas “baby milkshakes.”
Unlike cheap formulas, European infant formulas are organic, manufactured under strict organic farming practices with no processed sugars other than the natural milk sugar. Also, baby formulas manufactured under EU guidelines do not contain carrageenan - a thickening agent used in food products.
Carrageenan used in infant formula can irritate the baby’s digestive system and result in many problems, including constipation. European baby formulas do not contain any intestinal irritants like carrageenan and are considered best for alleviating constipation and other digestive issues in babies.
Why Are European Formulas Better For Your Baby’s Health?
If you’re confused about what baby formula you should choose to alleviate constipation, you must go for HiPP baby formula. HiPP baby formulas are considered the best for constipation because they’re formulated with prebiotics & probiotics that take care of the baby’s digestive system. Here are some must-haves that you should look for in baby formula:
- GI Support: The formula should provide GI support because the digestive system of a baby isn’t mature enough to be optimally working.
- Age Appropriate: Make sure the formula you choose is appropriate to your baby’s current age.
- A Base Your Baby Tolerates Well: Make sure you provide your baby with a base that your baby tolerates well. For example, rice bases are too thick for some babies, and some babies do not tolerate milk bases.
Below are the best-selling HiPP baby formulas for constipation:
1. HiPP Dutch Combiotic Formula
HiPP Dutch Combiotic formula is one of the safest and healthiest formulas for your baby’s digestive system. The Dutch version is easy on your baby’s digestive system, nourishes the gut, and alleviates symptoms of chronic constipation.
2. HiPP Comfort
HiPP Comfort provides superior nutrition to your constipated baby due to its unique formulation stool-loosening effect. The formula promotes healthy bowel movements and soothes an irritated gut.
3. HiPP Hypoallergenic (HA) Germany Combiotic
HiPP HA Germany is ideal for infants who have sensitivity to certain milk proteins. The formula is specially formulated with hydrolyzed proteins that reduce the allergic response and soothe constipation.