As parents, nothing is more distressing than seeing our little ones in discomfort. Such discomfort is especially common among infants with digestive issues.
Infants are particularly susceptible to digestive problems due to their developing systems. According to MomJunction, some common digestive problems among infants include constipation, diarrhea, colic, etc.
Harvard Health Publishing further adds to this, stating that chronic stomach pain is also common among some children. Functional abdominal pain ranks as the most common cause of stomach pain in children, and it can last for more than two months.
However, there are proactive steps parents can take to protect their babies from such discomfort. In this article, we’ll explore some crucial tips for safeguarding your infant’s digestive health and ensuring their comfort and well-being.
#1 Ensure Breastfeeding
Breastfeeding is widely acknowledged as the optimal way to nourish infants during the first months of life. Apart from providing essential nutrients, breast milk contains antibodies that help protect infants from infections and illnesses, including digestive issues.
The composition of breast milk is easily digestible, reducing the likelihood of gastrointestinal discomfort such as gas, constipation, and diarrhea. Additionally, the act of breastfeeding promotes bonding between mother and baby, fostering emotional well-being and security in the infant. Latched Mama mission aligns with these benefits by providing clothing that makes breastfeeding more accessible and convenient, helping mothers nurture their babies both physically and emotionally.
For mothers who are unable to breastfeed, opting for formula milk that closely resembles breast milk’s composition can be a suitable alternative. Consulting with a pediatrician can help in selecting the most appropriate formula for your baby’s needs.
#2 Choose Your Baby Formula Wisely
While there’s nothing wrong with feeding baby formula, you need to be careful when choosing one for your infant. According to TorHoerman Law, some baby formulas, like the Similac baby formula and Enfamil formula, contain harmful ingredients that can cause necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC). The NEC lawsuits were filed to seek compensation for the sufferings of the NEC baby formula victims.
NEC is a severe intestinal condition in premature infants and can cause intestinal inflammation and holes to form in the digestive system. The NEC baby formula lawsuit is ongoing, as many parents and guardians are coming forward to sue the manufacturers of these toxic baby formulas.
For new parents, it’s always a good idea to consult a pediatrician regarding which baby formula to feed their infants. Looking into the baby formula brand online can also give you insights regarding the manufacturers and the product itself.
#3 Burp Your Baby After Feedings
Infants often swallow air during feedings, leading to discomfort and gas accumulation in their digestive tract. Burping your baby after every feeding helps release trapped air, preventing discomfort and reducing the likelihood of colic.
There are several burping techniques to try, including holding your baby against your chest and gently patting or rubbing their back. Experiment with different positions to find what works best for your baby. Remember to burp your baby midway through feeding sessions as well as at the end to minimize air intake.
#4 Practice Safe Sleep Habits
Believe it or not, sleep habits can impact your baby’s digestive health. Putting your baby to sleep on their back reduces the risk of sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS). It also helps prevent reflux, a condition where stomach contents flow back into the esophagus, causing discomfort and irritability.
Avoid placing stuffed animals or other soft objects in your baby’s crib, as these can pose suffocation hazards and increase the risk of SIDS. Instead, opt for a firm mattress with a fitted sheet and dress your baby in lightweight, breathable sleepwear to maintain a comfortable body temperature.
#5 Introduce Solid Foods Gradually
When the time comes to introduce solid foods to your baby’s diet, it’s essential to do so gradually and cautiously. According to Parents, there’s no fixed time when your child will want solid food. Some children are ready for such foods at five or six months of age, while others are around 10 or 12 months of age.
Starting with single-ingredient purees and soft, easily digestible foods can help assess your baby’s tolerance and identify any potential food allergies or sensitivities. Common allergenic foods such as eggs and dairy should be introduced one at a time, with several days in between each new food. This approach allows you to monitor your baby for any adverse reactions and seek medical advice if necessary.
#6 Maintain Proper Hydration
Proper hydration is essential for maintaining healthy digestion and preventing constipation in infants. Breast milk or formula, of course, provides the primary source of hydration for babies during the first months of life. However, offering small amounts of water between feedings can help prevent dehydration, especially in hot weather or during illness.
When offering water to your baby, use a clean, sterilized bottle or cup and avoid adding sugar or other additives. Be mindful not to ‘overhydrate’ your baby, as excessive water intake can interfere with their ability to absorb nutrients from breast milk or formula.
In conclusion, infants are not immune to digestive problems. However, as parents, you can always keep those problems at bay by sticking to the tips above. In doing so, you can guarantee a healthy digestive system for your child and watch them grow strong and healthy.
