3 Ways to Fix Hard Motion (Constipation) in Babies After Starting Solids

Dr. Sandip Gupta

This video covers 3 remedies for hard motion (constipation) in children. The doctor notes that when semi-solid food is started, children's motion often becomes hard and the child cries while passing motion. 1. Give water after starting semi-solids. When semi-solid food is started after 6 months, give the child a little water — about six small spoons of water each time makes the motion soft. A 6 to 8 month old needs roughly 120 ml of water in 24 hours, and a 9 to 12 month old needs roughly 240 ml. 2. Fruits that soften motion. These are kiwi fruit, papaya, and prunes (dried aloo bukhara). Take two dried prunes, soak them in water, then make a purée and give two spoons to the child — either directly or mixed with oats. This softens the motion. 3. Light exercise. Massage around the child's navel, do pawanmuktasana i.e. leg cycling motions, and give tummy time sometimes. This improves the child's bowel movement and fixes constipation. The doctor mentions a detailed video has already been made on why children get constipation and what to feed them for it. Relevant for: parents whose baby has hard stools or cries while passing motion; parents who have just started semi-solids at 6 months; parents asking how much water a 6–12 month old baby needs; parents looking for fruits that relieve constipation in babies, including kiwi, papaya and prunes; and parents wanting massage, leg cycling and tummy time techniques for bowel movement. Disclaimer: This video is for general information and educational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Please consult your pediatrician if your child's constipation is persistent or painful, or if there is blood in the stool, vomiting, or poor weight gain.