How to Treat Baby Constipation

When a baby has constipation, it can be very discomforting. Making dietary changes and adding exercise can get them regular again.

Step 1: Give water or fruit juice Supply your baby with 2 to 4 ounces of water or fruit juice in addition to their usual feeding. This will help keep their stool soft.
Step 2: Feed a high-fiber food Feed your baby high-fiber foods, such as pureed pears, prunes, or barley cereal.
TIP: Cut down on foods like carrots, bananas, and rice, which are associated with constipation.
Step 3: Encourage exercise Encourage your baby to move around if they are crawling; if they are not crawling yet, when your baby is lying on their back, move their legs in a forward, circular motion, like they're pedaling a bicycle.
Step 4: Give them a massage Give your baby a massage. Put your fingers a couple of inches below their navel and apply light pressure with your fingertips.
TIP: Massage for three minutes, maintaining a gentle but constant pressure.
Step 5: Switch formula Ask your doctor if you should switch formula brands.
Step 6: Add corn syrup Add corn syrup to the formula to ease constipation. Ask your doctor for the recommended amount for your baby.
Step 7: Contact your doctor Contact your doctor if vomiting or severe irritability occurs. The doctor may recommend a glycerin suppository if the baby is severely constipated.
FACT: Over 2.5 million doctor visits in the United States are due to chronic constipation.