Starting solids truly is such an exciting time, watching your baby discover the taste of their first foods can bring both joy and a bit of anxiety. Starting solids may bring about a few tummy issues, knowing them and addressing them can help set a few worries at ease. In this article we will explore allergens, intolerances, constipation, poops and some of the things we can do to mitigate them.
Allergens versus Intolerance:
Food Allergens are described as something that is harmless, but has the ability to cause an inflammatory (allergic reaction) response to the immune system, because it is seen as a threat. Such allergens can be eggs, milk, wheat, nuts etc. Some reactions can include hives, swelling redness, rash, stuffy/runny nose, itchy or watery eyes, vomiting and coughing.
Food Intolerance affects your digestive system, and this occurs when the body is unable to break down non-life threatening foods (i.e. gluten). In this case, your child may have abdominal pain, gas, bloating, diarrhea, nausea etc.
It is often recommended to introduce one food at a time for a week and in the morning, so as the day progresses, you monitor your child’s reaction and tolerance to the food. However, if you suspect your child is having a food allergy or intolerance, it is best to stop that food and seek help from your health care provider (HCP).
Constipation and Poops
Constipation is when your child is having a difficult or painful time passing stool. A constipated child may have dry, hard stools and may cry or appear very uncomfortable when having a bowel movement. These poops may occur daily or infrequently. Often, this child may not be getting sufficient fluids and/or fiber in their diet and so, increasing their intake is vital.
After 6 months, a baby’s iron stores become depleted, so iron rich foods are highly recommended. However, iron-rich foods can be constipating if not paired with vitamin C rich-foods. These foods happen to be rich in soluble fiber as well as promote adequate iron absorption. Such foods include fruits and vegetables like berries, citrus fruits, tomatoes, white potatoes, bell peppers etc.
Poops with starting solids can come in all forms and shapes, and now that we know what to expect with constipation, we can also delve into what is normal, abnormal and requiring of immediate attention. Note that not all children poop every day. As far as, their tummy is flat, they’re passing gas and are not constipated, they are in the clear.
Normal poops can be soft, firm (when solids are started), yellow, brown, at times greenish, and smelly. If your baby’s poop is green (i.e. iron rich food, formula) or sometimes red (beets), consider what was last eaten.
Abnormal poops can appear maroon/bloody, black (not meconium), white or grey, more frequent than normal, large amounts of mucous or watery and pungent. These stools require immediate attention.
If your little one is getting ready for solids or is currently enjoying the novelty and you have questions, please feel free to reach out to a Mama Coach near you, supporting you and your baby through this life skill is our pleasure.