The bowel movements of babies can range in consistency and color. Some babies have regular bowel movements that are loose, while other babies have more solid bowel movements. The color of a baby's bowel movements changes, depending on what foods he has eaten. According to Mayo Clinic.com, especially watery bowel movements may indicate diarrhea. Diarrhea in infants can be caused by the consumption of baby formula.
Baby Formula and Digestive Problems
Health agencies recommend that mothers exclusively breast-feed babies for at least six months before they are given solid foods, according to the website Babyworld.com. This is to reduce the risk of a baby from developing digestive disorders, which can occur when solid foods are introduced into the diet too early. Baby formula can also lead to digestive problems, sometimes occurring in infants because it can cause food intolerance or food allergies to develop.
Lactose Intolerance
According to National Digestive Diseases Information Clearinghouse, lactose intolerance is the inability or insufficient ability to digest lactose, a sugar found in milk and milk products. It is caused by a shortage of the lactase enzyme being produced in the body. Children and babies suffering from lactose intolerance are unable to digest baby formula. Symptoms include diarrhea, cramps in the abdomen, bloating, colic and excess gas. If you think your child is suffering from lactose intolerance, it's important to seek medical advice.
Milk Protein Allergy
A food allergy can cause severe diarrhea in babies and in infants. Food allergies are caused by an abnormal response to a food triggered by your body's immune system, according to Medline Plus. A mild food allergy can cause diarrhea, excessive gas, pain in the abdomen and the presence of blood in bowel movements. More serious allergic reactions can lead to the presence of a rash or hives and can also cause swelling and difficulties with breathing. According to Baby Center website, the most common cause of a food allergy in babies is milk protein, which is found in baby formula. It's important to seek medical advice if you think your baby is suffering from a food allergy as this can have serious health implications.
Soy-Based Baby Formula
If your child is suffering from persistent diarrhea, using lactose-free baby formula may help to ease the symptoms of this, according to the AskDrSears.com. A severe bout of diarrhea that lasts more than three days will leave your child unable to digest the sugars present in cow's milk due to the damage the diarrhea has caused to the intestines. Using a soy-based formula for two weeks will give your child's intestines time to heal and to repair themselves, while ensuring your infant gets the nutrients he needs.
