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Constipation
My baby is 8 months old... I am giving him solid food for three times in a day along with breastmilk... His stool is hard and dry for several days... What should I do for his constipation??
Hello
This is common with dietary transitions and often improves with simple measures.
Try the changes mentioned below for 1-2 weeks, if there is no change consider stool softeners after advice from nearest Pediatrician.
Next Steps
Diet Modifications (if on solids): Increase high-fiber foods: mashed papaya, prunes, peaches, pears, and peas
Avoid constipating foods like bananas, applesauce, rice cereal, and carrots for now. Offer small sips of water (30–60 ml/day) in addition to breastmilk/formula
Encourage Fluids: Continue breastfeeding or formula regularly - Adequate hydration softens stools
Tummy Time & Leg Cycling: Regular tummy time
Gently move baby’s legs in a bicycle motion to promote bowel movement
Health Tips
Red flags:
Blood in stools
Severe straining or abdominal distension
No stool for more than 3–4 days despite dietary changes
Vomiting or poor feeding
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Mild constipation is common during weaning. Since your baby is 8 months old and on solids, hard stools may occur due to low fiber or fluid intake.
✅ What you can do:
Fluids: Increase water intake between feeds (2–4 small sips after each solid feed).
Diet tips:
Add mashed papaya, pear, prunes, banana, or steamed apple to the diet.
Avoid excessive rice cereal, biscuits, or dry foods.
Give oats/raagi/vegetable khichdi with ghee for softness.
Massage & leg cycling: Gentle abdominal massage and cycling movements of legs can help bowel movement.
Next Steps
If constipation continues beyond 3–4 days or baby is uncomfortable:
You may give Duphalac (Lactulose) syrup:
2.5 ml once or twice daily after food for 3–5 days.
(Under pediatric guidance)
Health Tips
Never use over-the-counter suppositories or strong laxatives without doctor advice.
Breastfeeding can continue as usual — it helps keep stools soft.
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