Constipation is incredibly common in babies when they start solids. And while it can feel alarming at first, in most cases, it’s manageable with a few gentle tweaks to their diet, feeding rhythm, and hydration.

But before you start cutting out every food or jumping into prune juice territory—let’s break it down.

💩 What does constipation in babies actually look like?

Signs of constipation can include:

• Hard, pellet-like poos

• Straining or discomfort when passing a stool

• Less frequent bowel movements (though frequency alone isn’t always a red flag)

• Excess gas, bloating or a firm belly

• Reduced appetite or extra fussiness
  

Why does starting solids cause constipation?

Here’s what’s really going on:

1. A maturing gut
Your baby’s digestive system is still learning how to deal with real food. Breast milk or formula is liquid gold, and solids—especially if introduced too quickly—can slow everything down.

2. Low fibre, low fat, high starch foods
Many first foods (like rice cereal or banana) are binding. Combine that with very little fat and suddenly, nothing's moving.

3. Sudden fibre overload
On the flip side, loading up too fast on fibrous veggies and fruit can also overwhelm the gut. Their system needs time to adapt.

4. Not enough hydration
As solids increase, milk intake can drop (or baby gets distracted with food and forgets to drink), and water may not yet be part of their routine. Dehydration slows stool movement.

5. Poor gut flora balance
After illness, antibiotics, or even just a slower start to microbial diversity, the gut may not be functioning optimally. This can impact how food moves through the system.

So what can help?

Hydration: Keep offering breastmilk or formula as their primary food until 12 months. Add in small sips of water or nourishing bone broth as solids increase.

Healthy fats: Fats like avocado, coconut oil, olive oil, and nut butters (once introduced safely) help soften stools and support digestion.

Fibre-rich “P” fruits: Pear, prune, plum, peach, and mango are classic constipation-soothing fruits thanks to their soluble fibre.

Go slow and steady: Start with one solid meal a day and watch how baby responds before ramping up. Their gut will thank you.

A Recipe to Gently Support Digestion

One of my favourite food-based remedies for constipation is this Chia & Pear Puree Pudding — it’s hydrating, nourishing, and rich in soluble fibre + healthy fats.

👉 Click here for the full recipe.

This one’s a go-to in my clinic and can easily be adapted to suit your baby’s taste and texture preferences.

Need help figuring out what’s causing your baby’s constipation?

Sometimes, despite doing all the things, the poos still don’t come easily. That’s when it helps to work with someone who can take a full picture view—your baby’s feeding history, food exposure, gut health, temperament and more.

If you’re feeling stuck, unsure, or just want reassurance that you’re doing the right thing…

I offer 1:1 consults designed to support you through solids, constipation, and all the gut health questions in between.

👉 Book a consult with me here and let’s get things moving—in the right direction.