Constipation in babies and toddlers is often misunderstood as “normal.” While changes in bowel movements are common as little ones transition to solids, constipation should never be ignored. Healthy and regular bowel movements are a window into your child’s digestive health, gut integrity, and even potential food sensitivities.

If your baby is experiencing constipation, this blog provides a starting point. For more in depth or tailored guidance, our Constipation Masterclass and online clinic can help you uncover the root causes and create a personalised plan.

What Does Constipation Look Like?

Signs of constipation in babies and toddlers can vary, but common symptoms include:

• Infrequent bowel movements (less than 3 per week)
• Pain or excessive straining when passing stools
• Hard, pellet-like stools
• Abdominal pain or distension
• Foul-smelling gas
• Blood in the stool or bright bleeding at the anus (indicating fissures or tearing)
• Reduced appetite or early fullness

If you’re seeing these symptoms, it’s important to take action. Constipation isn’t just uncomfortable—it can lead to behavioural issues like withholding stool if a painful experience occurs.

Common Causes of Constipation

Constipation in babies and toddlers can arise for a variety of reasons, including, but not limited to:

1. Starting solids before readiness: A baby’s digestive system might not be mature enough for solids. Waiting until developmental signs of readiness—like sitting up unsupported—can help.
2. Constipating foods: Some foods, like bananas (especially unripe), rice, cooked apples, white bread, and dairy, can contribute to harder stools in some children.
3. Insufficient fluids: Keep up their milk and start sips of water when you start solids. Water should not replace breastmilk or formula, that needs to remain the priority until at least 12 months, but you can introduce some sips of water with meals.
4. Excessive insoluble fibre: While fibre is important, too much too soon can overwhelm a baby’s digestive system.
5. Potential food sensitivities or intolerances: These can cause digestive upset and should be evaluated with a healthcare practitioner – our team of nutritionists and naturopaths in our online clinic can help.
6. Altered gut microbiome: Factors like antibiotic use, birth method, or maternal gut health during pregnancy may impact the balance of gut flora.
7. Formula type: Some babies may find cow’s milk-based formulas more constipating.
8. Certain medications: Some medications can be constipating (discuss this with your health care provider if you think this is the cause).

Supporting Healthy Digestion

Preventing and managing constipation starts with a diet rich in whole foods, healthy fats, and gut-supportive ingredients.

Foods That May Help Prevent or Alleviate Constipation:

• ‘P’ Fruits: Prunes, pears, peaches, plums, nectarines, and mangoes.
• Fermented foods: Small amounts of sauerkraut brine, beetroot kvass, or coconut kefir can boost gut flora. Consult one of our experienced practitioners for probiotic recommendations specific to your baby’s needs.
• Healthy fats: These are essential for gut motility and overall health.

Healthy fat sources to include:

• Avocado
• Butter, ghee, or coconut oil (for cooking)
• Ground flaxseeds or chia seeds (soaked)
• Fatty fish (like salmon, mackerel, sardines—note: fish is an allergen)
• Grass-fed meats and bone marrow
• Coconut cream or coconut-based products

Avoid highly processed oils (like vegetable or canola) and fried or packaged foods. For more recipes incorporating these healthy fats, see our book Milk to Meals, which also features the highly effective “Poo Poo Purée” recipe.

When to Seek Support

If you’ve tried dietary changes and your baby’s constipation persists, it’s important to address the root cause rather than relying solely on laxatives. Medications can provide short-term relief, but they don’t resolve the underlying issue.

Our Constipation Masterclass offers practical, research-backed strategies to understand and manage constipation in babies and toddlers. For individualised support, our online clinic connects you with our experienced practitioners who can provide tailored advice and solutions.

Take the Next Step

Constipation can feel overwhelming, but with the right support, you can help your little one get back to comfortable, regular bowel movements. By focusing on dietary adjustments, gut health, and individualised care, you’ll address the issue at its root rather than just treating the symptoms.

For personalised advice, book a consultation with our expert team, or explore our Constipation Masterclass for comprehensive insights into managing and preventing constipation.