Why Do Some Infants Have Issues With Digestion?
Welcoming a new bundle of joy into the world is a wonderful occasion. It’s a tender moment and promises a future filled with beautiful memories and milestones.
As parents embark on the journey of raising their little ones, ensuring proper infant nutrition stands out as a cornerstone for healthy development. However, things don’t always go according to plan. Infants tend to experience considerable fluctuations in their digestive habits.
Statistics show that regurgitation happens daily for more than half of all infants in a study on gastrointestinal disorders. For 20% of the subjects, it occurred more than 4 times a day.
Parents are naturally worried when such things happen, but as we can see, these problems are part and parcel of the early life stages. That said, in this article, we will explore possible causes as to why infants seem to have so many issues with their digestion.
Common Reasons for Digestive Issues in Infants
The early months of an infant’s life are marked by rapid growth and development. Along with these milestones, parents may encounter digestive challenges that can cause concern and, at times, sleepless nights.
Understanding the common reasons behind digestive issues is crucial for navigating these hurdles and ensuring the well-being of your little one.
An Immature Digestive System
Newborns are still adapting to the process of breaking down and absorbing nutrients. As a result, they may experience difficulties digesting certain components of formula milk, leading to gas, discomfort, and fussiness.
A particularly dangerous situation that you need to be aware of is if your infant was born prematurely. According to TorHoerman Law, there is evidence to suggest that premature infants are more susceptible to a condition called necrotizing enterocolitis. It’s a serious condition that can be fatal.
It is often triggered by baby formula that makes use of cow milk. When reports of this connection surfaced, major formula manufacturers like Similac and Enfamil were taken to court. In fact, parents of infants who were affected have been filing NEC baby formula lawsuit cases against these brands.
With trials expected to begin in 2024, it remains to be seen how these formula brands will be held accountable.
Overfeeding or Underfeeding
Sometimes, the situation isn’t as serious as an NEC diagnosis. It could well be likely that the infant is not having the right balance in terms of nutrition intake. In other words, you need to find the right balance in feeding.
Overfeeding can lead to an overwhelmed digestive system, causing discomfort and regurgitation. Conversely, underfeeding may leave the baby unsatisfied and prone to digestive issues. Both ways come with problems.
Remember, while chubby cheeks and a roly-poly appearance might seem adorable, excessive weight gain due to overfeeding do have implications. Weight gain in infancy may contribute to long-term health issues, such as obesity.
Allergies
Allergies in infants can be a source of concern for parents, prompting a careful examination of the baby’s diet, environment, and overall well-being. While allergies are relatively uncommon in the first months of life, they can manifest and pose challenges when they do occur.
For instance, reactions to eggs can emerge during infancy. Common symptoms include skin rashes, digestive issues, or, in severe cases, respiratory distress. Introducing eggs into the infant’s diet should be done cautiously, and any adverse reactions should be promptly discussed with healthcare providers.
Allergic reactions in infants may manifest as digestive problems, including colic, excessive gas, diarrhea, or vomiting. You might also notice skin issues such as eczema, hives, or redness.
What Steps Can Be Taken to Prevent Digestive Issues?
Preventing digestive issues in infants involves a combination of mindful feeding practices, attentive care, and awareness of potential triggers.
You can start with getting better at feeding. This would involve recognizing hunger cues, knowing proper feeding techniques, careful monitoring and more. The last point is particularly important in the context of allergies.
Introduce potential allergens one at a time and monitor for any signs of allergic reactions. If there’s a family history of allergies, healthcare professionals may provide specific guidance.
Similarly, don’t forget about the importance of water. Parents often focus on the popular UNICEF guideline to start feeding solid foods when an infant turns six months old. However, hydration is often not treated with the importance it deserves.
The truth is that hydration plays a massive role in digestion. Infants should be taking in at least 680 milliliters of fluids every day. This includes breast milk, formula and of course, water.
In conclusion, it is crucial for parents to maintain open lines of communication with healthcare professionals. Regular check-ups, consultations, and a collaborative approach contribute to a comprehensive understanding of the baby’s unique needs.
