Constipation is a big problem for babies who often can't tell us what's wrong. It can be difficult to communicate with them about their pain, but we can provide some relief with some natural, homemade tips that you can incorporate into your day-to-day life.
What you need to know about baby constipation
First we need to understand what constipation is and why it happens. Constipation is a condition in which bowel movements are hard and difficult or infrequent.
Colic or constipation in babies usually occurs during the first months of their lives because they are not mature enough to digest food properly. However, this condition can persist throughout childhood if we do not take some steps to correct it.
The most common causes of constipation in babies include:
- Change in your child's eating habits.
- Overeating can be another cause of constipation in babies.
- Colic, a condition that causes the baby to cry non-stop for hours, can also cause constipation and the crying itself makes it difficult for the baby to have a bowel movement.
However, if symptoms are persistent, it is always very important to consult your paediatrician.
Massage can help counteract the symptoms of constipation in your baby.
There are several causes of constipation, but what can you do to help alleviate these symptoms? Well, there are different types of massage that can help relieve this discomfort, such as abdominal massage and foot massage. It's never too early to start massaging your baby.
Massage is a great way to comfort, soothe and relax babies, as well as help them develop their body muscles.
Here are some simple techniques you can incorporate into a daily routine.
Drag massage
Crawling massage is a type of technique where the baby's back and stomach are rubbed with both hands, with one hand on the baby at a time. A crawling massage stimulates the baby's brain and helps the baby sleep better. It also gives your baby a chance to practice motor skills and coordination. It can also help your baby gain weight by stimulating his stomach and bowels. Crawling massage is best for babies who are about 3 months and up to 6 months of age.
Clockwise massage
With the tummy facing up, massage your baby with your fingertips in clockwise circles. Try to make slow, gentle movements for a few seconds, then stop for a moment and start again.
Massage with bent legs
Continue with the baby on his back, hold his ankles and gently bend his legs until they touch his stomach. Pause for a few seconds in this position and repeat the process a few more times.
Hands-free massage
There are several ways to massage your baby without using your hands. You can use a soft blanket to cuddle them, or you can try rolling them on the bed or holding them close enough to your chest for them to feel the warmth of your body. All of these techniques are likely to help soothe and comfort your baby.
Other natural tips for constipation
What foods are usually recommended
What you eat can affect your baby's bowel movements. Constipation is a common problem for babies and is usually caused by a lack of fibre or fluids in their diet. The following are some examples of foods that can help ease a baby's constipation and promote regular bowel movements:
- Give your baby plenty of water.
- Lactating fruits and fresh vegetables with high water and fibre content.
- Fibre-rich wholegrain cereals.
- Fruit juice with pulp (not just apple or pear juice)
- Black plums in moderation (a natural laxative)
Which foods are not recommended for constipation
Avoiding sugar and processed foods can also help the digestive system move faster, which will also lead to less constipation in your baby. Other counterproductive foods include:
- Sliced bread or white pastry
- Apples
- White rice
- Pasta or noodles
- Potatoes
Exercises for babies that help the digestive system
Some simple exercises can help get your baby's digestive system back to normal. One of the most effective exercises is to put them on their hands and knees and then rock back and forth. You can try doing this for about 10 minutes for it to be effective.
In addition, it is advisable to try walking more with them or at least rocking them in a rocking chair. Swimming is also a good idea, as it helps their abdominal muscles work better and stimulates their bowels.
