Formula for constipated infants

The Ultimate 2022 Guide – Organic Life Start

You may feel super stressed about your baby struggling with constipation. One potential cause for constipation is your baby’s diet, especially if you’ve recently started feeding them baby formula.

Your baby may have slower digestion and constipation due to the consistency of powder-based mixtures and non-organic ingredients in the formula. Usually, switching to alternative baby formula can resolve this issue.

This article is an in-depth, parent-friendly guide that will help you choose the best formula for your constipated baby.

Formula-Fed Newborns And Constipation

It is very important for parents to figure out if their baby is suffering from constipation. Constipation is the difficulty to pass stool, not the inability to have a bowel movement. It means that irregular bowel movements do not necessarily cause constipation. Instead, it is important to pay attention to the texture and consistency of your baby’s stool. For example, if your baby’s stool is hard, dry, and looks like tiny pellets, he/she may be dealing with constipation.

For example, if your formula-fed baby has irregular movements, but their stool is pretty soft and appears normal, they may not have constipation. Furthermore, your baby turning red while pooping is absolutely normal. Your baby may be dealing with constipation if their stools are hard, dry, and look like tiny pellets.

Are Formula-Fed Babies More Prone To Constipation?

It is true that formula-fed babies are more likely to be constipated than breastfed babies. Breast milk serves as a natural laxative and can easily be digested by babies. On the other hand, baby formulas have larger proteins that cannot be easily digested and cause gastrointestinal problems, among which the most common is constipation.

This doesn’t mean that all formula-fed babies experience constipation, or it is impossible that a breastfed baby will never have constipation. Every baby has a different digestive system. When you introduce solids into your breastfed or formula-fed baby’s diet, it is common to see symptoms of constipation in your infant.

Signs Your Baby Is Constipated

Constipation is a common digestive issue in newborns and can be challenging to resolve. The following are some signs of constipation:

• Hard, dry stools that can appear like hard balls and rocks.
• Swollen belly with gas.
• Baby cries in pain while passing stools.
• Blood in the stool.
• Having bowel movements fewer than 3 weeks.
• Lack of interest in food.

It is important to make an appointment with your healthcare professional if your baby has any of the above-mentioned signs of constipation.

Common Issues Leading To Constipation In Formula-Fed Babies

Breastfed babies are less likely to be constipated than formula-fed babies and those who are transitioning to solid food. Below are some causes of constipation in formula-fed babies:

1.

One common cause of constipation in your formula-fed babies is a thicker formula. The formula is denser than breastmilk, which means the GI tract of the baby takes more time to process it. Using too much of a thick formula leads to constipation and dehydration.

2. Rice-Based Formula

If you’re giving your baby a rice-based formula, it may lead to constipation in your baby. Commonly, acid reflux formulas use rice in their formulas that are much thicker and need more time to be processed in the baby’s GI tract. This can lead to gas and constipation.

3. Milk Allergies

If your baby is allergic to milk protein or has lactose intolerance, the development of constipation will be inevitable.

Should You Switch Baby Formula To Help Your Constipated Baby?

If your baby’s formula is causing frequent constipation, then you should change the formula with a better one.

However, switching baby formula from one brand to another too often can make things even worse. Give your baby’s digestive system a couple of weeks to adopt the new formula. Also, don’t forget to consult your baby’s pediatrician.

Why Are European Formulas Better For Your Baby’s Health?

Europe-based formulas strictly follow the guidelines of the European Commission, which is similar to the U.S. FDA. The only difference between the EU and FDA is that EU rules and regulations are more stringent for the production of infant formula.

Traditional American baby formulas are manufactured using cheap and processed ingredients with empty calories that give no nutritional benefits to infants. Many pediatricians call these American formulas “baby milkshakes.”

Unlike cheap formulas, European infant formulas are organic, manufactured under strict organic farming practices with no processed sugars other than the natural milk sugar. Also, baby formulas manufactured under EU guidelines do not contain carrageenan - a thickening agent used in food products.

Carrageenan used in infant formula can irritate the baby’s digestive system and result in many problems, including constipation. European baby formulas do not contain any intestinal irritants like carrageenan and are considered best for alleviating constipation and other digestive issues in babies.

Best Formula For Constipation?

If you’re confused about what baby formula you should choose to alleviate constipation, you must go for HiPP baby formula. HiPP baby formulas are considered the best for constipation because they’re formulated with prebiotics & probiotics that take care of the baby’s digestive system. Here are some must-haves that you should look for in baby formula:

• GI Support: The formula should provide GI support because the digestive system of a baby isn’t mature enough to be optimally working.
• Age Appropriate: Make sure the formula you choose is appropriate to your baby’s current age.
• A Base Your Baby Tolerates Well: Make sure you provide your baby with a base that your baby tolerates well. For example, rice bases are too thick for some babies, and some babies do not tolerate milk bases.

Below are the best-selling HiPP baby formulas for constipation:

1. HiPP Dutch Combiotic Formula

✓ Contains Probiotics & Prebiotics

✓ No sugar, no corn syrup, no soy

✓ No starch

✓ HiPP's most popular formula

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HiPP Dutch Combiotic formula is one of the safest and healthiest formulas for your baby’s digestive system. The Dutch version is easy on your baby’s digestive system, nourishes the gut, and alleviates symptoms of chronic constipation.

• HiPP Dutch Combiotic:
  • Doesn’t contain harmful ingredients that cause constipation.
  • Contains prebiotics and probiotics that increase infant gut health.
  • Comes in three stages, and all have stool-loosening effects

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HiPP Dutch doesn’t contain any of the following ingredients:

2.

✓ Contains Probiotics & Prebiotics

✓ No sugar, no corn syrup, no soy

✓ Reduced lactose with hydrolyzed milk protein

✓ Easy to digest formula for sensitive babies

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HiPP Comfort provides superior nutrition to your constipated baby due to its unique formulation stool-loosening effect. The formula promotes healthy bowel movements and soothes an irritated gut.

• HiPP Comfort not only helps babies with colic, constipation, and flatulence, it also contains healthy ingredients, including:
  • Hydrolyzed Protein: Fewer gastrointestinal symptoms, less constipation.
  • Prebiotics & Probiotics: Increased infant gut health.
  • Natural Cultures of Lactic Acid Bacteria: Relaxed bowel movements, increased growth of gut flora.
  • Evenly Distributed Fats: Fewer blockages, similar to breast milk

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3.

✓ Contains Probiotics & Prebiotics

✓ No sugar, no corn syrup, no soy

✓ Hydrolyzed milk proteins reduce allergic reactions

✓ Popular for constipated babies

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HiPP HA Germany is ideal for infants who have sensitivity to certain milk proteins. The formula is specially formulated with hydrolyzed proteins that reduce the allergic response and soothe constipation.

• This is why HiPP HA Germany is perfect for your baby:
  • Formulated with natural carbohydrates that supplement breast milk.
  • Contains prebiotics and probiotics to strengthen your baby’s gut microbiome.
  • Contains hydrolyzed proteins that are good for allergies and upset tummies.
  • Free of synthetic ingredients.
  • Contains no maltodextrin, starch, soy, or corn syrup.

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Baby Formula For Constipation

Cheap infant formulas interfere with your baby’s digestive system and cause constipation. Your baby needs the best formula that provides complete nourishment and optimal health. HiPP organic baby formulas that relieve your baby’s constipation, promote healthy stools and promote the gut flora. You can complement baby formula with prune, apple, or pear juice to treat constipation in infants.

If you’re considering buying the best formula for your constipated baby, Organic Life Start is the best platform that sells European organic baby formulas that value your baby’s health.

3 Best Formulas For Constipation And Gas

1. HiPP Dutch Combiotic Formula
2. HiPP Comfort Formula
3. HiPP Hypoallergenic (HA) Formula

Our top recommendations

Best Baby Formula for Constipation [Our Top 10 Picks!]

Many formula-fed babies experience constipation. Between the ingredients in the formula and the consistency of powder-based mixtures, slower digestion and constipation may occur. A quick way to resolve this issue is to consider the current formula your baby is consuming. Oftentimes, switching to a new formula can resolve their discomfort. That’s why we went on the hunt for the best baby formula for constipation!

These top 10 formulas for constipation were chosen because of their ingredients, consistency, and bases. All of which can provide relief and help reduce future occurrences. 

Constipation isn’t the inability to have a bowel movement, rather how difficult it is for your baby to pass stool. This means it’s important to pay attention to the consistency and texture of your baby’s stool as well as how often they are having bowel movements. Signs of constipation include difficulty passing stool, seeming uncomfortable or difficult to console, stools are hard, and bowel movements aren’t happening every 5 to 10 days. 

Babies sometimes have a slow digestive system because breastmilk and formula are both so nutrient-dense. Your baby’s system absorbs almost everything in the nutrient-dense milk, which leaves little to digest. Babies that are strictly breastfed may have a bowel movement just once a week because of this. Always be sure to keep track and follow your doctor’s guidelines for what is normal, though.

First off, keep track of your baby’s bowel movements so you know when there is a change in their normal pattern. There are some great apps that can help you easily track this, check them out here!

If your baby seems to be exhibiting signs of constipation it may be useful to change their formula. There are so many formulas on the market, each of which offers unique ingredients and formulations to provide nutrients. Many also have additives for growth, colic, and other infant conditions. The current formula you are using may be difficult on your baby’s system, so an adjustment can reduce their symptoms.

Common Issues Leading to Constipation in Formula Fed Babies

• Thick Formulas: Babies that are formula-fed often have more constipation than breastfed babies because the formula is thicker than breastmilk. This means it takes more time to be processed in their GI tract.
• Milk Allergies: It could also be that your baby has a milk allergy. Luckily, there are formulas that use different bases if this is the case. 
• Rice Based Formula: Another situation where changing the formula can help is if the baby is receiving a rice-based formula. This is often common in acid reflux formulas, as they are thicker to help the baby keep them down. This thicker formula can lead to constipation.

So, what are the best baby formulas for constipation? We recommend considering the 3 must-haves on our check list below and then choosing from one of the ten options on this list.

The formula options listed below are widely available through local and online retailers. All 10 of these formulas are considered the best for constipation due to their formulation with specific ingredients that may help reduce constipation symptoms and may help keep your child on a more regular bowel movement schedule. You will also find alternatives for milk-based formula here, as this commonly clears up constipation issues. 

• A base that your baby can tolerate: some babies don’t do well with milk bases while others may find rice bases too thick
• GI support: the digestive system may need some added support since it hasn’t been functioning at an optimal level
• Age-appropriate: make sure the new formula you choose is providing the correct support for your child’s current age

This formula by Enfamil was designed specifically to help relieve and reduce constipation. The ingredients include easy to digest proteins that can be broken down more quickly than other formulas. The formula also contains baby probiotics for intestinal support.

This blend should help your baby to produce an easy to pass stool and keep them regular.

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The ProSobee formula is one of the best soy-based blends to prevent baby constipation. It is definitely worth a try if you think your baby’s discomfort has to do with being dairy and lactose intolerant. The plant-based powder is more gentle on sensitive tummies and can reduce fussiness, gas, colic, and constipation.

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This is a sensitive baby formula with a special blend of fats that are commonly found in breastmilk. This means it not only supports brain growth but can also help reduce intestinal discomfort. This formula offers complete nutritional support for babies through 12 months.

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Good Start Soothe offers complete nutrition that is very similar to breastmilk, supporting babies up to 12 months. The specific formula of this blend provides prebiotics, comfort proteins, and probiotics. This makes it easy to digest, provides healthy bacteria, and helps to produce more comfortable bowel movements.

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Gerber also offers a soy-based formula that also offers many of the benefits of the Good Start line. With soy as a base, this formula is lactose-free which can reduce gas, fussiness, and provide constipation in your baby. 

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There aren’t too many hypoallergenic baby formulas on the current market. However, this one by Gerber offers babies with dairy allergies some relief. It is a clean product that caters to their needs. This formula uses whey protein which is easier to digest and babies with dairy or milk sensitivities can usually tolerate it. There’s also a probiotic and MCT oil included in this blend to help with digestive health and fat absorption.

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The pro-sensitive blend is specific for sensitive tummies and offers relief from common digestion difficulties. The formulation and blend were designed to support lactose sensitivity and they work to reduce gas and fussiness. Other ingredients in this formula offer brain and eye development support.

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Similac Soy Isomil is also dairy-free. The blend offers complete nutrition with plant-based soy and can be more gentle on sensitive tummies. This specific formula is both gentle and easy to digest. Plus, it relieves digestive upset symptoms such as gas and constipation.

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If you are looking for a more natural and organic powdered formula, the Earth’s Best line is a great option. This particular blend uses a milk base with added natural fats commonly found in breastmilk that aid in eye and brain development. Another draw to this formula is that it’s non-GMO and Kosher!

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Lastly, this soy plant-based alternative offers all the benefits of the Earth’s Best line with the base you’re looking for. There are no artificial colors or additives, it is non-GMO, and Kosher along with high-quality proteins, carbohydrates, and fats to support the baby’s first 12 months.

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Having a baby with tummy issues is no fun, I know because I have been there! Trial and error will eventually lead to a solution if your baby is having constipation issues due to their formula. Don’t be afraid to reach out to your doctor if you feel like you cannot find a solution, though! 

Frequently Asked Questions

Should I change formula if baby is constipated?

Many formula-fed babies experience constipation. Between the ingredients in the formula and the consistency of powder-based mixtures, slower digestion and constipation may occur. A quick way to resolve this issue is to consider the current formula your baby is consuming. Oftentimes, switching to a new formula can resolve their discomfort.

What is the easiest baby formula to digest?

The easiest baby formula to digest is going to vary from baby to baby. Enfamil Reguline Constipation is one great option to try. It was designed specifically to help relieve and reduce constipation.

Which is better Similac or Enfamil?

This is really just going to depend on what you are looking for in your baby formula as both brands have a variety of options. Enfamil does contain more natural ingredients and less sugar. However, Similac options tend to be more budget-friendly.

Pin for Later- Best Baby Formula for Constipation [Our Top 10 Picks!]

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Infant formula for constipation: which one to choose

Tiunova Elena

Published: 01/15/2023

Reading time: 5 min

129

Young parents have many sleepless nights and hectic days. And all because the baby is worried about something. Digestive problems are among the most common causes of yelling and crying. The gastrointestinal tract in newborns is just being formed, so there may be colic, flatulence, regurgitation and defecation disorders. Every fifth child suffers from constipation. nine0003

Childhood disorder of the gastrointestinal tract

More often, a violation of the gastrointestinal tract occurs in children who are on artificial or mixed feeding. This is due to the fact that the baby's digestive system in the first year of life is prepared by nature for the assimilation of mother's milk, and infant formulas are created according to the model of breast milk and are only as close as possible to its composition. However, sometimes it also happens that a violation of the gastrointestinal tract occurs in infants. There can be several reasons - from the mother's unsuitable diet to nervous disorders. What to do if a newborn has constipation? First of all, go to the doctor. nine0003

What is the normal frequency and consistency of stools in a child?

The stool of children of the first year of life changes and may be more liquid or more dense:

• in the first weeks of life
• when switching to artificial feeding
• when changing milk formula
• during the introduction of complementary foods.

Symptoms of constipation

• Bowel emptying irregularly (less than once every 36 hours).


• The stool is dry and hard, which means that later the child may try to hold on to the feces, since the last time a bowel movement caused him pain (relevant for older children).


• The baby pushes hard, pulls his legs up to his chest, but his efforts do not give any results. nine0072
  
• The baby is naughty, frowns, cries when trying to empty the intestines.


• The child has trouble sleeping and refuses to eat.


• There is bloating.

Other conditions can lead to similar symptoms, so you should always see a doctor to make a diagnosis.

Breastfeeding constipation

The quantity (and quality) of mother's milk is affected not only by mother's diet, but also by the state of her nervous system and lifestyle*. It is, of course, very difficult not to be nervous, but a parent can manage her lifestyle. A woman cannot breastfeed normally if she is in constant stress and nervous exhaustion. The less time a mother spends on household chores, the better for her, and therefore for the newborn. So all household duties can be safely delegated to the second parent, grandparents, other relatives, friends or hired nannies. It is important to pay attention to nutrition:

• Be sure to include in the daily menu at least half a kilogram of various (preferably fresh) fruits, vegetables and berries, as well as other foods and dishes containing fiber.
• No matter how trite it may sound, but drink enough liquid during the day (1.5-2 liters).

You can understand what kind of diet is suitable for a mother by the reactions of the child. If in doubt, but really want to eat something special, eat a little and see how the baby's digestion reacts. If the baby does not have reddening of the skin and rash, there are no problems with the stool, there are no colic and constipation, then the chosen dish is quite suitable *. But strict restrictive diets of a nursing woman without special need (individual allergic reactions to food and other food intolerances) are not allowed. For the prevention of nutritional deficiencies, both in her and in the child. nine0017

Causes of constipation

1. Immaturity of the digestive organs. Due to the fact that the gastrointestinal tract of a newborn is only adapting to new conditions, there may be various functional failures in its work.


2. Immaturity of the nervous system. Insufficient maturity of the baby's nervous system prevents him from correctly recognizing signals about the need to defecate.


3. Somatic diseases. nine0125 Rare pathologies include dolichosigma (an increase in the length of the sigmoid colon), lactase deficiency (absence or insufficient amount of enzymes for the breakdown of lactose), Hirschsprung's disease (accompanied by impaired innervation in the intestine). Colds and viral diseases can cause constipation, leading to dehydration of the child's body. Also, constipation can be one of the manifestations of hypothyroidism, rickets, liver disease, myasthenia gravis, and some other disorders.


4. Features of nutrition. If a child is breastfed, then the mother's malnutrition can affect the work of his gastrointestinal tract. Doctors recommend that lactating women exclude confectionery, fatty broths, cheeses, nuts from the diet. In artificers, constipation can be caused by a lack of fluid. Also, a sharp change in the brand of the mixture can lead to violations in this area.


5. Taking certain medications. Constipation may be a reaction to treatment of the mother or baby with antibiotics, anticonvulsants, and antispasmodics. nine0072
   
6. Psychological problems. Children often suffer from constipation, whose parents are constantly in nervous tension, often get irritated, violently solve some family problems.