Fiber foods make babies constipated, right?

We all know that fibrous food is good for launching bowel movements. However, there is a myth in society that says that babies should not eat fibrous food first because it makes babies constipated.

Fiber foods make babies constipated, is it true?

Not. Just like small children and adults, babies also need fibrous food intake to facilitate digestion. But of course, the amount of fiber needed for babies will be very different from that of adults.

According to the guidelines for the Adequacy Rate of Nutrition (RDA) from the Ministry of Health, the need for fiber for infants aged 7-11 months is 10 grams per day. Even so, the needs of each baby may be differentiated according to their level of physical activity, daily diet, as well as their bowel habits so far. Some babies may need more fiber, and some may need a little less.

Parents can estimate whether a child's fiber intake is sufficient or not by looking at the condition of the stool. The normal color of baby's stool that has complementary foods is generally brown, maybe a little greenish, and not hard-textured. This is a sign that the baby's fiber needs are just right.

If the baby's stool is hard, defecates rarely and is difficult to pass (the child is moaning in pain during defecation), it means that he is constipated and is not eating enough fiber.

Most eating fiber can make babies constipated

Although fiber is beneficial for the baby's digestion, you also have to pay attention to the portions. Most eat fibrous foods without being accompanied by adequate water intake can cause the baby's digestion to be disturbed. This is because the baby's digestive system is not fully functioning normally to be able to process large amounts of fiber.

Same with deficiency, eating mostly fiber without enough water can also make babies constipated. If the baby's stomach is bloated and has difficulty defecating, this could be a sign that he is eating too much fiber.

What fiber foods are good for babies to eat?

1. Fruits

The first fibrous food that can be given to babies is fruit. First, try giving your baby a mashed apple or pisanh for about 3-4 days.

This aims to see if the baby's digestion can digest the fiber from the fruit. If there are signs of a stomachache, bloating, or even allergies, stop immediately.

2. Vegetables

Vegetables such as spinach, broccoli, peas and beans, are very rich in fiber. However, some of these vegetables can cause flatulence and discomfort for the baby.

To work around this, try mixing several types of vegetables and mash them together with fruit such as apples or pears to add flavor to baby food.

3.Oatmeal

Wheat porridge is also high in fiber which is good for the baby's digestion. You can outsmart the bargain by adding a sweet fruit puree as a topping for the mixture. If your little one has started teething, try giving him oat crackers that are soft and break easily.