Many times a baby’s constipation can be treated with common herbs; however, be sure to use the appropriate dosages for your babies age and size. Some of the more common herbal constipation treatments are below:

• Oatmeal prepared or cooked in a flaxseed tea can be very soothing the babies intestines and relieve the babies constipation.
• Licorice Tea or a tincture prepared with licorice tea also helps sooth the intestinal walls and relieves the constipation.
• For a longer term milder soluton include a  few drops of flaxseed oil twice daily in food or juice will help ease your babies constipation.

As always consult your doctor or pediatrician before treating your child.

There are several methods for treating Baby Constipation outlined below are some of the most common ways to help your baby become more regular.

• Try a different brand of formula if you’re bottle feeding. (Constipation should never be considered a reason to discontinue breastfeeding.)
• Add a little non-absorbable sugar or dark fruit (prune or pear) juice to your baby’s formula. Or just give some extra water or electrolyte solution between feedings, especially in hot weather.
• Increasing the amount of Fiber or Fluid is the best way to start treating constipation
• Using a stool softener which may be prescribed to help soften the stool and pass through the intestines
• A bulk-forming laxative such a psyllium or Maltsupex increases the amount of bulk in the intestinges and makes stools softer and easier to pass and they also help initiate contractions in the intestines which push the stool along.
• Stimulant Laxatives such as castor oil and senna leaf extract. These work by agitating the the intestinal wall then stimulating peristalsis
• Try a little help from below, like a glycerin suppository or a well greased thermometer if the addition of a little sugar does not work.

As with any treatment it is always best to consult with your doctor or pediatrician first.

What is Baby Constipation?

Low frequency of bowel movements or straining does not determine if a baby is constipated, it’s the consistency of the stool. A baby is usually constipated if he passes firm, dry pebbly poop. However, if his poop is fluid, soft or paste consistency, then he’s not constipated.

SIGNS YOUR BABY IS CONSTIPATED
Crying while passing a bowel movement, bleeding from the anus, abdominal pain and reduced appetite can also be signs a baby is constipated.

WHAT INFANT STOOLS LOOK LIKE
When baby is breast fed
Consistency: Soft or runny.
Color: Yellow mustard to orange with little white flecks that look like seeds.
Frequency: Can vary from every feed to once per week.

When baby is formula fed
Consistency: Soft paste.
Color: Grayish green, yellow, tan or brown, depending on the type of formula.
Frequency: Every 1 to 2 days.

When baby is eating solid food
Consistency: Paste to formed stools. Often contains undigested food.
Color: Can vary depending on what is eaten.
Frequency: Can be less frequent – particularly for a breast fed baby.

Since each babies eating habits are different, there is no “normal” number or schedule when it comes to a baby’s bowel movements. Some babies may pass a stool after every feeding, or wait a day or more between bowel movements. The babies pattern will depend mainly on what he or she eats and drinks, how active they are, and how quickly they digests their food. With a routine schedule of feeding you should be able to tune in to your baby’s unique habits.