Many formula-fed babies experience constipation. Between the ingredients in the formula and the consistency of powder-based mixes, slower digestion and constipation can occur. A quick way to solve this issue is to consider the current formula your baby is eating. Often, switching to a new formula can resolve their discomfort. That’s why we went on the hunt for the best baby formula for constipation!
The top 10 formulas for constipation were chosen because of their ingredients, consistency, and bases. All of these can provide relief and help reduce future occurrences.
Why do babies experience constipation?
Constipation is not the inability to have a bowel movement, but 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 stools as well as how often they poop. Signs of constipation include difficulty defecating, seeming uncomfortable or difficult to comfort, hard stools, and bowel movements not occurring every 5 to 10 days.
Babies sometimes have slow digestive systems because breast milk and formula are both nutrient dense. Your baby’s system absorbs almost all of the nutrient-dense milk, leaving little to digest. Babies who are exclusively breastfed may have a bowel movement only once a week because of this. Always be sure to monitor and follow your doctor’s guidelines for what is normal, though.
How can baby formula reduce constipation?
First, track 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 track this easily, check them out here!
If your baby seems to be showing signs of constipation, it may be helpful to change their formula. There are many formulas on the market, each offering 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 hard on your baby’s system, so an adjustment may reduce their symptoms.
Common Issues That Lead to Constipation in Formula-Fed Babies
- Thick Formulas: Formula-fed babies often have more constipation than breast-fed babies because formula is thicker than breast milk. This means it takes more time to process in their GI tract.
- Milk Allergies: Your baby may also have a milk allergy. Fortunately, there are formulas that use different bases if this is the case.
- Rice Based Formula: Another situation where changing formula can help is if the baby is receiving rice-based formula. This is usually common with acid reflux formulas, as they are thicker to help baby keep them down. This thicker formula can lead to constipation.
Top 10 Best Baby Formulas for Constipation
So, what are the best baby formulas for constipation? We recommend considering the 3 must-haves in our checklist 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 of these 10 formulas are considered the best for constipation because of their formulation with specific ingredients that can help reduce the symptoms of constipation and can help keep your child on a more regular bowel schedule. You can also find alternatives for milk-based formula here, as it usually clears up constipation issues.
The Baby Formula for Constipation Must Have:
- A base 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 additional support because it is not functioning at an optimal level
- Age appropriate: make sure the new formula you choose provides the right support for your child’s current age
1: Enfamil Reguline – Our #1 Choice of Baby Formula for Constipation!
This Enfamil formula is specifically designed to help relieve and reduce constipation. Ingredients include easily digestible proteins that can be broken down faster than other formulas. The formula also contains baby probiotics for gut support.
This mixture should help your baby produce a passable stool and keep them regular.
2: Enfamil ProSobee Soy Sensitive
ProSobee formula is one of the best soy-based blends to prevent baby constipation. Definitely worth a try if you think your baby’s discomfort has something to do with being dairy and lactose intolerant. The plant-based powder is gentler on sensitive stomachs and can reduce discomfort, gas, colic, and constipation.
3: Enfamil NeuroPro Gentlease
It is a sensitive infant formula with a special blend of fats normally found in breast milk. This means that it not only supports brain growth but may also help reduce intestinal discomfort. This formula offers complete nutritional support for babies up to 12 months.
4: Gerber Good Start Soothe
Good Start Soothe offers complete nutrition similar to breastmilk, supporting babies up to 12 months. This special blend formula provides prebiotics, comfort proteins, and probiotics. This makes it easy to digest, provides healthy bacteria, and helps to make bowel movements more comfortable.
5: Gerber Good Start Soy
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 will reduce gas, fussiness, and constipation in your baby.
6: Gerber Extensive HA
There aren’t 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 meets their needs. This formula uses whey protein which is easier to digest and is usually tolerated by babies with milk or milk sensitivities. There are also probiotics and MCT oil included in this blend to aid in digestive health and fat absorption.
7: Similac Soy Isomil
Similac Soy Isomil is also dairy free. The blend offers complete nutrition with plant-based soy and may be gentler on sensitive stomachs. This particular formula is both mild and easily digestible. Plus, it relieves symptoms of digestive upset like gas and constipation.
8: Best Organic Dairy on Earth
If you’re 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 normally found in breast milk that help with eye and brain development. Another draw to this formula is that it is non-GMO and Kosher!
9: Best Plant-Based Soy on Earth
Finally, this soy plant-based alternative offers all the benefits of the Earth’s Best line with the base you’ve been looking for. No artificial colors or additives, it’s non-GMO, and Kosher with quality proteins, carbohydrates, and fats to support baby’s first 12 months.
Having a baby with tummy troubles is no fun, I know because I’ve been there! Trial and error will lead to a solution if your baby is having constipation issues because of their formula. Don’t be afraid to contact your doctor if you don’t think you can find a solution, though!
Frequently Asked Questions
Should I change the formula if the baby is constipated?
Many formula-fed babies experience constipation. Between the ingredients in the formula and the consistency of powder-based mixes, slower digestion and constipation can occur. A quick way to solve this issue is to consider the current formula your baby is eating. Often, switching to a new formula can resolve their discomfort.
What is the easiest baby formula to digest?
The easiest baby formula to digest will vary from baby to baby. Enfamil Reguline Constipation is a good option to try. It is specifically designed to help relieve and reduce constipation.
Which is better Similac or Enfamil?
It really just depends on what you are looking for in your baby formula as both brands have different options. Enfamil contains more natural ingredients and less sugar. However, Similac options tend to be more budget-friendly.
What formula is good for constipation Enfamil?
Enfamil Reguline is specifically designed to help relieve and reduce constipation. Ingredients include easily digestible proteins that can be broken down faster than other formulas. The formula also contains baby probiotics for gut support.
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