As a pediatrician, I understand the concerns that mothers often face when it comes to their child's health. One of the most common issues that parents encounter is hard stool in their children. This can cause discomfort, pain, and even tears in young children, which can be a discomfort experience for both the child and the parents.
While there are many over-the-counter medications and prescription drugs that can be used to treat this condition, there are also several effective home remedies that can help alleviate the problem.
Simple Remedies for Baby Constipation
If your infant is experiencing constipation, there are several home remedies you can try before seeking medical attention. Here are some simple remedies to keep in mind:
- Fluids: Ensure your infant is well-hydrated. Milk, fruit juice, and ORS water can aid in the motility of the digestive tract.
- Bathe in warm water: A warm bath might help ease constipation. Warm water and baking soda should be added to your baby's bathtub to open the rectal muscles and help with bowel movements.
- Consume fruit & vegetable juice: Juices made from fruits and vegetables such as apple, prune, tomato, papaya, and pear can help alleviate constipation in infants and young children. Sodium sorbitol, present in apple and pear juices, has been found to be effective in relieving constipation.
- Apple, prune, and diluted pear juice are safe for infants over four months old to consume.
- Tomato juice and papaya pulp or chunks can be given to babies over six months old.
- Probiotics: Probiotics such as yogurt can speed up the transit time and make the stools softer.
- Coconut oil: Incorporate 2–3 ml of organic coconut oil into your baby's diet if above six months or apply around the anus of a six-month-old baby to ease bowel movements.