Family Magazine

Natural Remedies for Constipated Babies

By Craftycrunchymama
Since Baby J has started solid foods, he has had a little problem with constipation. Last month it got much worse (no more bananas or rice for us!). It got so bad that I felt it would be best to call the doctor. They prescribed a stool softener, which made me very nervous. I mean, how do I know if it is making his tummy uncomfortable? Watching my baby try and push was so painful (more so for him than me, but still). I felt so helpless!
I decided that I would only use the softener until he pooped easily a couple of times. Then I turned to some more natural remedies. I looked to my handy dandy "The Baby Book" by Dr. Sears and spoke to someone at my local health food store for some ideas.
What we use:
  Flax Oil - Besides being a great source of Omega-3 fatty acids, it helps move the bowels along. One teaspoon per day mixed into a puree or yogurt does the trick!
Natural Remedies for Constipated Babies 
Probiotics - Balances the micro flora in the intestinal tract.We put 1/2 tsp. in about 4 ounces of water and let him sip it throughout the day. Natural Remedies for Constipated Babies
Water - I make water available with every meal as well as throughout the day. Water helps with moving things along in the intestines.Natural Remedies for Constipated Babies
High Fiber Fruits and Vegetables - We typically use peaches, pears, and prunes. Natural Remedies for Constipated Babies
These four things seem to be helping Baby J to be more regular. He still gets hard stools sometimes (especially when I forget to give him his flax oil or let him eat too many rice puffs - he loves those things.), but overall I am really pleased with the results. These things aren't hard to do, but make a big difference. 
I would love to learn about some of the other remedies out there. What do you use for your little one?

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