I get a lot of questions from Neocate parents about constipation. Amino acid-based formulas like Neocate Infant do not technically cause constipation, but instead slow down the frequency of the bowel movements in babies.
Neocate is a low residue formula, meaning that it has very little waste to excrete which causes less frequent bowel movements – everything in the formula is getting absorbed! Also, some babies on Neocate may have already been prone to constipation because of the GI issues caused by allergies or other conditions and it may have been overlooked. Keep in mind all babies have different stool patterns, but typical stool frequency can be around 1 stool per day.
One telling sign of actual constipation (not just the effect of a low residue formula) is bowel movements that are hard or pellet-like. You might also notice that your baby is grunting, straining or seems like he or she is relieved right after having a bowel movement.
If this sounds like your little one, don’t worry! There are a few tricks that can help relieve their discomfort. Try moving their legs around to get things moving through their digestive system, or gently massage their tummy. Check with your doctor about giving your child some water or prune juice to hydrate them. In extreme cases, your doctor can also give you some alternative solutions which can stimulate a bowel movement as well.
– Sarah O’Brien
