INFANT CONSTIPATION
Constipation is common in the first months of life, especially, among infants who are fed with formula milk. Their stools “are harder and have more calcium soaps than infants who are breastfed, due to the different composition of the fatty acids”
The key is in the fact that they lack the microbiota of breast milk. “This does not make it any easier the development of the intestinal flora in the newborn, though it seems there are increasingly more brands which try to supply this deficiency”.
At the time of choosing formula milk for a constipated infant, “the formulas with a low amount of saturated fats, mainly containing lipids in the form of polyunsaturated fatty acids” are recommended.
However, the anti-constipation formula milks lack “lack evidence of its effectiveness”, “the risk-benefit ratio is completely positive and will not cause any negative effect in the infant”.
Among the laxative products sold in drug stores, experts point out that laxative fruit granulates are fibers which can be used from the very first weeks. There are also different vegetable-fiber presentations (liquid, powder, drops…), but should be determined by the physician.
Probiotics, a useful alternative to the baby colics, “in the constipation studies have yielded negligible results”; however, “they can help regulate intestinal flora”.
In the field of medical prescription, the pediatrician points out that magnesium sulfate can be useful and safe in infants, and babies above six months of age, Polyethylene Glycol Macrogol 4.000 in usual doses. This is the laxative “of choice in functional constipation lasting over six months”,
A classic to the rescue are glycerin suppositories. The pediatrician recognizes that it is an option that «likes little, taking into account the availability of very effective oral laxatives, which avoid interfering with the normal defecate mechanisms of the child and his learning.»
“They are useful in the treatment of intense constipation, but their use can cause anal irritation so it is recommended to use them for limited periods of time.
You can resort to these aids without forgetting that hygienic-dietary measures are the first pillar also banishing myths to avoid the despair of parents. For example, a critical stage is the introduction of complementary feeding. Although among the recommendations at this stage are to introduce foods with a lot of fiber; «At that age it is not a problem of fiber but of adjustment of liquids in a diet that is very dairy.»
Diet and habits, first steps
To avoid the settlement of chronic constipation in a young child, it is recommended to teach to their parents set up dietary measures, correct hygienic defecation habits, have a regular meal Schedule, to chew the food very well and urge the practice of physical exercise.
It is also important to reassure parents, «since in the process of intestinal maturation there are phases in which periods can occur in which it defecates less than usual.»
For more information, visit your doctor; not self-medicate; or write us.
