Natural Remedy for Baby Constipation

Constipation is a common affliction that causes severe discomfort and pain in babies. Generally caused by a reaction to solid food or overall diet, constipation can cause irregular and painful bowel movements in a baby. Natural remedies can alleviate constipation and put a baby at ease.

Stomach Massage

Massaging a baby's stomach in a circular motion can calm a constipated baby and encourage the movement of the bowels. Moving the legs in a bicycle motion can help alleviate gas caused by constipation.

Warm Bath

A warm bath with baking soda can relax and promote bowel movements in a constipated baby. Keep the baby in the bath for 10 minutes, and massage her tummy for additional relief.

Castor Oil

Fill a 4-oz. bottle with breast milk or water, along with a few drops of castor oil once a day, for 2 to 3 days. As a natural cleansing agent, this mixture can ease stomach pains and clean out any blockage in the intestines.

Fruit Juice

Juice is high in fiber and can naturally alleviate constipation in a baby. In a 4-oz. bottle, mix water and juice, such as prune or apple, to be consumed twice a day for a week. Juices should be used in moderation so babies do not get addicted to sweet liquids, as opposed to more nutritional liquids, such as formula or breast milk.

Change of Diet

Adjusting a baby's diet is one of the best and easiest ways to alleviate constipation. The BRAT diet (bananas, rice, applesauce and toast) provides a baby with simple foods that are rich in fiber and easy on the stomach, which is good for discomfort.

Fennel Seed

A common herb used for digestion, fennel seed is known to alleviate gas and constipation in a baby. Mix fennel seed tea and water in a 4-oz. bottle, which can be given to a baby for 3 or 4 days, 2 times a day.

Resources

• Baby constipation
• Treatments for baby/infant/child constipation