Digestive issues are among the most common concerns for new parents, but most are normal, manageable, and temporary.
First-time parents know the feeling well: Baby is uncomfortable, but of course, you don’t know why. After all, they can’t talk. Maybe they’re spitting up due to reflux, or they’re crying ceaselessly, or they’re grunting when trying to poop. These are all examples of potential digestive issues in little ones, and despite being distressing for Mom, Dad, and baby alike, they’re not uncommon, and there are ways to help baby find relief.
Digestive problems in babies
Reflux may be affecting your child if they spit up most or all of their feedings. They may also choke or gag. Reflux happens when stomach contents come back up through the esophagus, causing irritation. Children may vomit or breathe those contents into the lungs. Sometimes, parents may even feel their babies’ bodies rattle. Tips to help babies with reflux include burping often, feeding slowly and upright, and making sure their diaper is loose. Reasons to call your baby’s doctor can include worsening reflux, refusal to feed, and choking spells.
Colic affects about 20% of babies and is thought to be a sign that the child is sensitive to gas. Colic won’t hurt babies, as long as they are getting enough nutrition and are on track with their weight. That said, colic, which is associated with long bouts of crying, can be challenging for parents. Know that in time, this digestive issue will pass, and patience is key. You may also consider talking to your child’s pediatrician about switching from formula with cow’s milk to formula with soy milk, as some babies may tolerate soy milk better. For colic to be caused by an actual milk allergy is rare.
Dyschezia, or trouble pooping, is also known as “grunting baby syndrome.” In other words, babies grunt when trying to release stool. Believe it or not, pooping requires some muscle power, and some babies may have more trouble with it than others. The thinking goes that babies who cry — usually for about 30 minutes — before pooping are doing so to help increase pressure in their abdomen, facilitating the bowel movement. Soft poop that is brown, green, or yellow is normal. Harder stool may indicate constipation.
Diarrhea and vomiting are two other recognizable digestive issues in children that can similarly affect adults. Contact your baby’s doctor if either occurs, as they can lead to dehydration or may indicate a more serious issue.
Supporting your baby’s digestive health
When your little one is six months old, and you and your child’s doctor have determined they are ready to begin solids, you may introduce the following foods to their diet. According to the Gerber Medical Hub, these foods are appropriate for babies ages six to 12 months and can support a healthy microbiome, thus promoting better digestive health:
- Plant-based foods such as veggies, fruits, legumes, and whole grains
- Lean protein such as chicken, turkey, and beans
- Healthy fats such as avocado, fish, and seeds
- Probiotics such as yogurt, fermented foods, or fortified infant cereal
- Water, in small quantities and in addition to breast milk or formula
