8 Best baby foods for constipation relief that works

A common compliant heard by parents are the baby constipated after starting solids. What foods for constipation should be tried to help baby poop?

Constipation is a common problem in babies, and it can cause discomfort and pain. If your baby is constipated, you may want to consider changing their diet to include more fiber-rich foods that can help regulate their bowel movements. In general, breastfed babies tend to have more regular bowel movements than formula-fed babies.

Table of Contents

• Common causes of constipation in babies include:
• Foods for constipation that help babies
  • Recipes for constipated babies
  • FAQs – foods to help baby poop
    • What should babies eat when constipated?
    • What foods should babies avoid when constipated?
    • What is the fastest way to relieve constipation in an infant?
    • Does oatmeal Constipate babies?

Common causes of constipation in babies include:

1. Formula or diet changes: Switching from breast milk to formula or introducing solid foods can cause changes in a baby’s bowel movements, leading to constipation.
2. Dehydration: Babies who do not get enough fluids can become dehydrated, leading to constipation.
3. Low fiber intake: Babies who are eating solid foods that are low in fiber, such as rice cereal or bananas, may be more likely to become constipated.
4. Medical conditions: Certain medical conditions, such as Hirschsprung’s disease, thyroid problems, or cystic fibrosis, can cause constipation in babies.

If your baby constipated after starting solids, there are several things you can do to help:

1. Offer more fluids: Make sure your baby is getting enough fluids, whether it’s breast milk or formula. If your baby is over six months old and eating solid foods, you can also offer water.
2. Increase fiber: If your baby is eating solid foods, offer foods that are high in fiber, such as prunes, pears, and peas.
3. Massage: Gently massaging your baby’s tummy may help stimulate bowel movements.
4. Warm bath: Giving your baby a warm bath may help relax their muscles and make it easier for them to pass stool.

If these remedies do not work, or if your baby seems to be in pain or discomfort, it’s important to consult your pediatrician.

Foods for constipation that help babies

1. Prunes: Prunes are high in fiber and contain a natural laxative called sorbitol. They are an excellent baby food to help relieve constipation in babies. You can give your baby pureed prunes or prune juice to help soften their stool and promote bowel movements.
2. Pears: Pears are a good source of fiber and can help regulate your baby’s bowel movements. You can offer your baby mashed or pureed pears or mix them with other fruits to make a tasty baby food.
3. Apples: Apples are high in fiber and contain pectin, a soluble fiber that can help soften stools. You can offer your baby pureed apples or mix them with other fruits like prunes or pears to create a delicious and nutritious baby food.
4. Sweet Potatoes: Sweet potatoes are a good source of fiber and can help promote bowel movements in babies. You can offer your baby mashed sweet potatoes or mix them with other vegetables like carrots or peas to create a nutritious and tasty baby food.
5. Broccoli: Broccoli is high in fiber and can help regulate your baby’s bowel movements. You can offer your baby pureed or mashed broccoli or mix it with other vegetables like carrots or sweet potatoes to create a nutritious and delicious baby food.
6. Brown Rice: Brown rice is a good source of fiber and can help promote bowel movements in babies. You can offer your baby mashed or pureed brown rice or mix it with other foods like vegetables or fruits to create a tasty baby food.
7. Oatmeal: Oatmeal is high in fiber and can help soften stools and promote bowel movements in babies. You can offer your baby oatmeal cereal or mix it with other fruits like bananas or apples to create a tasty and nutritious baby food.
8. Yogurt: Yogurt is a good source of probiotics, which are beneficial bacteria that can help regulate your baby’s digestive system. You can offer your baby plain or flavored yogurt as a snack or mix it with other foods like fruits to create a nutritious and delicious baby food.

Recipes for constipated babies

Here are a few easy recipes for constipated babies that I have tried to work best:

1. Homemade Prune puree – With just a handful pitted prunes and water, this recipe is easy to make. Prunes are known foods to help baby poop.

Homemade prune puree

If you’re looking for a healthy and natural way to introduce your baby to solid foods, homemade prune puree can be an excellent choice. Prunes puree for baby are high in fiber and contain essential vitamins and minerals such as potassium, iron, and vitamin A. Prune puree recipe is gentle on the digestive system helping baby poop.

Check out this recipe

2. Pears/ Pear puree – A ripened, soft and juicy pears make a great blw baby food to help relieve constipation. Check out the best pears you can choose from to make baby food.

3. Applesauce oatmeal – With just 2 ingredients, this makes a great baby foods to help baby poop.

Applesauce oatmeal

Applesauce oatmeal is a great breakfast option for growing babies and toddlers helping them get enough fibre in their diet. Try this easy recipe using a homemade applesauce today!

Check out this recipe

4. Dates Syrup – An easy 2 ingredient homemade dates syrup is one of the great recipes for constipated babies. You can use this dates syrup in oatmeal or spread it on the toast or smear it on apple.

Homemade dates syrup

This naturally sweetened dates syrup recipe makes everything tasty and you can give it to babies 6 months and older guilt-free without worrying about the sugar content in it. And you can make this date simple syrup within a few hours.

Check out this recipe

5. Applesauce – An easy homemade applesauce can be made using fresh apples and water.

Homemade Applesauce

With no added sugar and ready in 10 minutes, this applesauce is perfect for babies and toddlers and can be customized according to your preference. Use this applesauce to make other versatile recipes.

Check out this recipe

6. Apple cinnamon oatmeal – Simple oatmeal with steamed apples and a pinch of cinnamon makes a great recipe that is enjoyed by babies.

Apple cinnamon oatmeal

Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal or porridge makes the best breakfast for babies & toddlers with its smooth creamy texture and spiced apple with a pinch of cinnamon. With less than 10 minutes to make and less mess in your kitchen, this makes an easy breakfast for a healthy family.

Check out this recipe

7. Pineapple oatmeal – Add 1/2 cup of ripened chopped pineapple to a bowl and bring it to boil until its cooked. Add in roasted powdered oats and cook it until it turns creamy. A dollop of cream adds a great flavor to pineapple oatmeal for toddlers.

FAQs – foods to help baby poop

What should babies eat when constipated?

When babies are constipated, it’s important to offer them foods that can help soften their stool and make it easier to pass. Here are some examples of baby food to help relieve constipation in babies:

1. Prunes: Prunes are high in fiber and can help relieve constipation. You can offer your baby pureed prunes or prune juice.
2. Pears: Pears are also high in fiber and can help promote regular bowel movements. You can offer your baby pureed pears or sliced pears.
3. Peaches: Peaches are another fruit that can help relieve constipation. You can offer your baby pureed peaches or sliced peaches.
4. Plums: Plums are high in fiber and can help soften stool. You can offer your baby pureed plums or plum juice.
5. Broccoli: Broccoli is high in fiber and can help promote regular bowel movements. You can offer your baby pureed broccoli or steamed broccoli florets.
6. Beans: Beans are high in fiber and can help prevent constipation. You can offer your baby pureed beans or mashed beans.
7. Water: Offering your baby more water can also help relieve constipation.

What foods should babies avoid when constipated?

When baby constipated after starting solids, it’s important to avoid certain foods that can make the constipation worse. Here are some examples of foods to avoid:

1. Low-fiber foods: Foods that are low in fiber can contribute to constipation. Examples include rice cereal, bananas, applesauce, and white bread.
2. Dairy products: Dairy products such as cow’s milk, cheese, and yogurt can be constipating for some babies. If your baby is constipated, it may be helpful to limit or avoid dairy products for a short period of time.
3. Processed foods: Processed foods that are high in sugar, salt, and fat can contribute to constipation. Examples include cookies, chips, and fast food.
4. Certain fruits and vegetables: While most fruits and vegetables are beneficial for constipated babies, some can be constipating in excess. For example, carrots, potatoes, and sweet potatoes can be constipating if consumed in large quantities.
5. Overly starchy foods: Foods that are high in starch, such as rice and pasta, can contribute to constipation if consumed in large quantities.

Remember, every baby is different, and what works for one baby may not work for another. It’s important to consult your pediatrician if your baby’s constipation persists or they seem to be in pain or discomfort. They can provide personalized recommendations for your baby’s dietary needs.

What is the fastest way to relieve constipation in an infant?

If your infant is constipated and in discomfort, there are some fast ways to provide relief. Here are some things you can do to quickly relieve constipation in an infant:

1. Offer more fluids: Increasing your baby’s fluid intake can help soften their stool and make it easier to pass. You can offer your baby water, breast milk, or formula more frequently than usual.
2. Massage your baby’s tummy: Gently massaging your baby’s tummy in a circular motion can help stimulate bowel movements and relieve constipation.
3. Bicycle legs: Encourage your baby to bicycle their legs while lying on their back, which can help get their digestive system moving and relieve constipation.
4. Try a warm bath: A warm bath can help relax your baby’s muscles and promote bowel movements.
5. Offer fruit juice: If your baby is over six months old, you can try giving them a small amount of fruit juice, such as prune juice or apple juice, to help relieve constipation.

Remember, it’s important to talk to your pediatrician before trying any new methods to relieve constipation in your infant. They can provide personalized recommendations and rule out any underlying medical conditions that may be causing the constipation.

Does oatmeal Constipate babies?

Oatmeal can sometimes cause constipation in babies, particularly if it is introduced too early or in large quantities. However, it’s not a common cause of constipation in babies and many babies tolerate it well.

It’s important to introduce oatmeal gradually and in small amounts, particularly if your baby is new to solids. You can mix it with breast milk, formula, or water to create a thinner consistency, which can be easier for your baby to digest.

If your baby seems constipated after eating oatmeal, try reducing the amount you are giving them or stopping it temporarily to see if the constipation improves. You can also offer more fruits and vegetables that are high in fiber to help promote regular bowel movements.