One more question for this evening! My 8 month is usually very regular, but he has not had a bowel movement since Tuesday. Nothing has changed as far as his diet is concerned. I just thought it was odd that he has not had a bowel movement and I am of course monitoring it and today he has some cereal (oatmeal) so I am hoping that will help. Any suggestions? Thank you!!
An exclusively breastfed baby does not need anything else but mama's milk. As long as he is not uncomfortable, everything is fine. Breastmilk is meant for them and is perfect for their digestive track and can be easily digested and absorbed. Breastfed babies USE most of the calories they take in from breastmilk, so they don't have as many (or as stinky - bonus!) bowel movements as formula fed babies.
When my little one is irregualar I give her some juice diluted of course. Her pedi said this is fine. About 1oz pear or apple juice with 3 ozs of water. Or 1tsp of karo syrup with 4 ozs of water. Your little one does not have to drink the whole 4ozs just keep offering it to him little by little and within an hour my little ones always had a bowel movement. It may take a little bit more time that is just what happens to my little ones. The dr said we can keep increasing the karo syrup if needed but start with 1 tsp and then 2 and so forth. Don't give this to them all the time as they will like the sweetness only with needing help with BM's
I'd make sure you're giving him some prunes and pears and whatever else starts with p (I heard it's the p foods that help keep them regular). It's important to give that once a day. Is he breastfed, if so, it can take days to get the poop out. If he's on formula/solids, he should be pooping every day or every other day. If he goes much longer, and especially if he gets fussy, I would be very watchful because he could be getting backed up.
Totally make sure he is drinking water and some juice, but throw in lots of fruits. Cereal can actually constipate him more so cut back on that and do fruits. Prunes are best, pear next but stay away from apples and bananas as they can constipate too. Most people think apples would help but they actually are good for stopping diarhea, hence stopping bowel movements. My daughter many times went 5-6 days without a BM and the Dr. said she was totally fine since she was breastfed and not in pain or fever, eating well but keep up fluids and fruit!
Has the weather turned warmer there? Dehydration can sometimes cause constipation.
Updated
Has the weather turned warmer there? Dehydration can sometimes cause constipation.
Apples - apples make me very regular. That and copious water/fluid intake.
I don't think I'd worry about it too much as long as he doesn't seem uncomfortable. Make sure he's eating fiber and staying hydrated, and throw in some prunes every now and then if you're really worried about it. If he hasn't gone by the end of the weekend I would definitely call the pediatrician.
Did you change your diet? If yes change it back, add prunes- to your diet that is.
Since Tuesday is too long ,you are correct.
Best, k
blueberries or prunes!!!! and lots of liquids!!!! good luck!!!!!!!
