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Constipation is one of the most common problems that an infant goes through. And while this happens, it becomes difficult for new parents to deal with it as not excreting on a regular basis may lead to several digestive issues including gas and others. In this article, we are going to share some remedies suggested by an expert which can help get rid of constipation and gas in your baby.
“Constipation can occur at any age even infants under 1 year. While the frequency of passing stools can vary as per child’s age and diet, constipation in young babies can be seen after switching to solid foods lacking soluble fibre and less water intake”, says Dr. Milind Jambagi, Paediatrician, Rainbow Children’s Hospital.
Despite constipation being common in infants with prevalence ranging from 1 to 30% based on age, the expert suggested these 5 easy to follow ways to relieve constipation and the built-up gas and bloating in your baby.
Cycling exercise for your baby
Lie your baby down on the back, lift their legs, and do the cycling motion to help relieve gas and to stimulate stools. This should also calm them down. If they are receptive, also give them a gentle tummy massage. Do not forget to burp your baby well after every meal to prevent gas and colic.
Continue Breastfeeding
Breast milk is naturally rich in soluble fibre that can prevent constipation in your baby. If you are still breastfeeding, continue doing so as it will help your baby to ease.
Extra water and juice from some fruits
If your baby is already on solid foods, keep feeding them water throughout the day. Post 6 months, you can try feeding a teaspoon of prune or plum juice. These fruits are rich in soluble fibre that will help your baby feel better soon. Fennel or saunf water can also help in speeding digestion and relieving gas.
Fibre up your baby’s meals
Fruits like bananas, pears, plums, prunes, and apples with no skin are great. Green leafy vegetables like spinach, yogurt, and oats porridge are also good to kickstart the pooping reflex.
FOS for your baby
FOS stands for Fructo-oligosaccharides. It might sound like a complex molecule, but it is actually a natural fibre that is found in wheat, banana, and artichokes. It is extracted and fortified in many foods. Research finds that soluble fibre FOS helps in softening the stools of infants while also increasing the counts of good gut bacteria in your baby. In all, it will calm your baby and help them pass a hassle-free poop.
Is constipation a regular occurrence despite lifestyle and diet changes in your child? Then the expert recommends checking with the pediatrician to help identify if there are any other underlying causes. “Constipation in infants & children can be easily addressed with dietary and lifestyle changes in early stages. Many times, infants are simply adapting to this alien feeling of pushing things out of their bodies. It will all be fine,” reassures Dr. Milind Jambagi.
Disclaimer: This article was originally published on Zoom TV Digital. MomJunction has reposted the article with only the title and image changed.
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