Neither diarrhea nor constipation is fun for both the baby or the parents. However, most babies will have one or both at some point in the first year. This is usually caused by a problem with their digestive system.. or it could just be a tummy bug.
But don’t fret, because these baby formulas are known to ease the situation.
Baby Constipation Home Remedies
If your child is younger than four months old, talk to a doctor or nurse about treatment of constipation. For infants of any age, contact the child's doctor if there are concerning signs or symptoms (such as severe pain or rectal bleeding) along with constipation.
The following remedies are for infants with constipation who are older than four months..
Fruit juice – If your infant is at least four months old, you can give certain fruit juices to treat constipation. This includes prune, apple, or pear juice (other juices are not as helpful). You can give a total of 2 to 3 ounces (60 to 120 mL) of 100 percent fruit juice per day for children four to eight months old. You can give up to 6 ounces (180 mL) of fruit juice per day to infants 8 and 12 months old. However, do not give juice every day for more than a week or two. Too much juice can be unhealthy for children's overall diet and growth.
Dark corn syrup – Dark corn syrup has been a folk remedy for constipation for hundreds of years. Dark corn syrup contains complex sugar proteins that keep water in the bowel movement. However, current types of dark corn syrup may not contain these sugar proteins, so the syrup may not be helpful. It is not clear whether light corn syrup is helpful.
High-fiber foods – If your infant has started eating solid foods, you can substitute barley cereal for rice cereal. You can also offer other high-fiber fruits and vegetables (or purées), including apricots, sweet potatoes, pears, prunes, peaches, plums, beans, peas, broccoli, or spinach. You can mix fruit juice (apple, prune, pear) with cereal or the fruit/vegetable purée.
Best Baby Milk Formula for Constipation
A. Extensively Hydrolyzed Formula Brands in USA
Formula that have been extensively hydrolyzed may be a good option for babies who are allergic to cow’s milk. These formulas breaks down the milk proteins into even smaller pieces than partially hydrolyzed formula, making them easier to digest.
1. Enfamil Nutramigen Infant Formula, Hypoallergenic and Lactose Free Formula with Enflora LGG
Best hypoallergenic formula for eczema
Delivers Clinically-Proven Relief when managing colic due to cow’s milk allergy for a happier, better-rested baby & mom
– FAST RELIEF NOW: As early as the first feeding, with 90% of infants improving within 48 hours
– INCLUDES LGG: The most extensively studied probiotic for allergy management and supporting the digestive health of your baby
– BRAIN SUPPORT: Nutramigen is a gentle, lactose free baby formula that has important nutrients found in breast milk such as Omega-3 DHA, ARA, and Choline that provide brain support
– IMMUNE SUPPORT: Helps support baby’s immune system to return to consuming traditional milk protein formula without an allergic response
Ratings
4.8 out of 5 – more than 2,500 global ratings
Enfamil Nutramigen Infant Formula Reviews
Excellent for babies with milk allergy. Cleared up my daughter’s eczema and rashes within weeks! Very pleased! Makes poo smell awful too so that’s cool, I guess if you’re looking to use your baby’s feces as a weapon or social deterrent.
Related: Enfamil vs Similac
2. HiPP HA Formula Stage 1, from Birth 600g - Hypoallergenic Baby Milk Formula
Buy on Formuland.com
Hipp HA formula is a hypoallergenic formula that is suitable for babies with milk protein allergies. Milk protein can be an important factor to trigger allergies. The Hypoallergenic (HA) protein diet contains milk which is split in simple molecules. This reduces the risk of allergies. The protein formula used in Hipp is completely hydrolyzed and was proven by studies to prevent allergies.
A low-allergen diet cannot give complete protection but reduces the risk of allergies in infants. The HA formula should stay constant for 4 to 6 months in order to produce best results. A small amount of non-hydrolyzed protein can promote sensitivity and destroy the benefits of the low-allergen diet.
Hipp HA Formula Reviews
Love this! Easy absorption! No bitter taste. My baby loves it! Highly recommend.
3. Mama Bear Hypoallergenic Infant Formula Powder with Iron, Non-GMO (0-12 months)
Buy on Amazon
Mama Bear Hypoallergenic baby formula, clinically studied for colic due to cow’s milk allergy; similar nutritional content with Nutramigen and Similac Alimentum.
– BABY’S COMFORT IN MIND: Easy-to-digest proteins help reduce crying and fussiness from colic due to cow’s milk allergy; complete nutrition through 12 months
– DIGESTIVE HEALTH: A probiotic helps support your baby’s digestive health; no artificial growth hormones; non-GMO ingredients; gluten-free; certified kosher by the Orthodox Union-(U)D
– BRAIN SUPPORT: DHA helps support brain development
Mama Bear Hypoallergenic Infant Formula Reviews
This is the same as the other store-brand hypoallergenic formulas like at Target, Kroger, etc. I’m finding that those places have been low or out lately, so this has been a very convenient alternative source for what is the same formula.
I’ve found that the store-brand does not mix quite as well as Nutramigen, but as long as I shake well, any clumps left at the beginning are gone by the time my daughter finishes her bottle. Huge money saver! Highly recommend this formula!
4. Gerber Good Start Baby Formula Powder, Extensive HA, Hypoallergenic, Stage 1
- Best Hypoallergenic Formula for CMPA
This hypoallergenic formula is designed for babies with cow’s milk protein allergies (CMPA). If your baby is suspected to have or is diagnosed with CMPA, your baby’s doctor might recommend changing from a routine formula to a hypoallergenic extensively hydrolyzed infant formula
For Cow’s Milk Protein Allergy: Cow’s milk protein allergy is the most common allergy among infants. This formula features 100 percent high-quality whey protein, broken down into tiny pieces and is designed to be well-tolerated
Ratings
4.3 out of 5 – more than 500 global ratings
Gerber Good Start Extensive HA Reviews
You’ve found it! Our poor little guy was diagnosed with a milk protein allergy at 2 weeks old, and we got a sample can of Alimentum from our pediatrician. That stuff smelled horrible and made our son gassy and have reflux. So we switched to the Gerber to give that a try, and wow, night and day difference. I also like that it includes probiotics and MCT oil, and uses non GMO corn, because I felt serious mom guilt not being able to feed him an organic formula. We also add Probiota Infant probiotic powder to one bottle a day, and the gas, reflux and tummy problems are long gone! Can’t recommend this formula enough!
Buy on Enfamil.com
Pregestimil is specially designed for infants who experience fat malabsorption & who may also be sensitive to intact proteins.
It contains 55% fat from MCT oil, which is more easily absorbed by babies with some GI problems.
Enfamil Pregestimil Infant Formula Reviews
I wish you guys had this formula at stores! It’s so hard to find! So great for preemies! My daughter was a micro preemie and this is the only milk she was able to tolerate!
For Cow’s Milk Protein Allergy: Cow’s milk protein allergy is the most common allergy among infants. This formula features 100 percent high-quality whey protein, broken down into tiny pieces and is designed to be well-tolerated
Ratings
4.3 out of 5 – more than 500 global ratings
Gerber Good Start Extensive HA Reviews
You’ve found it! Our poor little guy was diagnosed with a milk protein allergy at 2 weeks old, and we got a sample can of Alimentum from our pediatrician. That stuff smelled horrible and made our son gassy and have reflux. So we switched to the Gerber to give that a try, and wow, night and day difference. I also like that it includes probiotics and MCT oil, and uses non GMO corn, because I felt serious mom guilt not being able to feed him an organic formula. We also add Probiota Infant probiotic powder to one bottle a day, and the gas, reflux and tummy problems are long gone! Can’t recommend this formula enough!
5. Enfamil Pregestimil Infant Formula with DHA & ARA
Buy on Enfamil.com
Pregestimil is specially designed for infants who experience fat malabsorption & who may also be sensitive to intact proteins.
It contains 55% fat from MCT oil, which is more easily absorbed by babies with some GI problems.
- Hypoallergenic suitable for someone with lactose intolerance
- 55% of the fat from MCT oil
- Designed for infants with fat malabsorption problems
- Has DHA & ARA—important nutrients also found in breast milk that promote brain & eye development
- Perfect for plan-ahead feedings
Enfamil Pregestimil Infant Formula Reviews
I wish you guys had this formula at stores! It’s so hard to find! So great for preemies! My daughter was a micro preemie and this is the only milk she was able to tolerate!
6. Similac Alimentum Hypoallergenic Milk Formula - Best Similac Formula for Constipation
- For babies who are allergic or show colicky symptoms to cow's milk, which have proteins that are more difficult to digest than human breastmilk.
- Contain casein hydrolysate (milk), which are smaller, more digestible proteins derived from larger cow’s milk proteins.
- Uses sugars to aid in digestion
- Claims that their easy to digest formula can reduce colic symptoms in at least one day.
- Has no lactose, but still contains other milk products.
- Uses corn maltodextrin sugar on top of other sugars, overall has more sugar content than Enfamil.
- Has a high level of Linoleic Acid
- Cons : Bad smell
Ratings
Let me start by saying that I hate almost everything about this product, except the fact that it works. We had to switch from regular formula to Alimentum at the recommendation of the pediatrician due to lactose issues causing bloody stool. This worked and stopped the problem almost immediately. He actually enjoyed drinking this stuff for the six months until we could ween him onto other foods.
I'm giving this formula an overall three stars. Five stars for a product that works, and one star for expensive price and the horrible smell.
Similac Alimentum Price, 12oz
B. Amino Acid-Based Formulas in the USA
This formula has been broken down so extensively that only amino acids remain. Because amino acids are the building blocks of proteins, the baby receives all of the nutrients included in standard formula without having to break down the protein internally.
6. Nestle Alfamino Amino Acid Based Infant Formula with Iron
Buy on Alfamino.com
Alfamino is a hypoallergenic amino acid-based infant formula designed for infants with cow’s milk protein allergy, multiple food allergies or malabsorptive conditions. Alfamino provides essential nutrients that infants need for growth and development and has a unique fat blend containing medium-chain triglycerides (MCT) to facilitate fat absorption.
– Hypoallergenic Pediatric Formula
– Use Under Medical Supervision: Alfamino Infant Formula is easy to digest and is lactose-free and gluten-free; For infants 0 to 12 months
Alfamino Amino Acid Based Infant Formula Reviews
So thankful for this formula. My infant has FPIES and malabsorption and this is the only elemental formula with 10% more MCT oil than the others and actually helps him gain weight. He can tolerate it much better digestively and it doesn’t smell anywhere as bad as other elemental formulas so I can only imagine it tastes better as well.
Buy on Alfamino.com
Alfamino is a hypoallergenic amino acid-based infant formula designed for infants with cow’s milk protein allergy, multiple food allergies or malabsorptive conditions. Alfamino provides essential nutrients that infants need for growth and development and has a unique fat blend containing medium-chain triglycerides (MCT) to facilitate fat absorption.
– Hypoallergenic Pediatric Formula
– Use Under Medical Supervision: Alfamino Infant Formula is easy to digest and is lactose-free and gluten-free; For infants 0 to 12 months
Alfamino Amino Acid Based Infant Formula Reviews
So thankful for this formula. My infant has FPIES and malabsorption and this is the only elemental formula with 10% more MCT oil than the others and actually helps him gain weight. He can tolerate it much better digestively and it doesn’t smell anywhere as bad as other elemental formulas so I can only imagine it tastes better as well.
7. Enfamil PurAmino Hypoallergenic Infant Formula
Buy on Enfamil.com
Our PurAmino formula is a hypoallergenic, iron fortified, amino acid-based infant formula used for infants with severe cow’s milk protein allergy, and other food allergies. It has DHA & ARA, important fatty acids that support brain and eye development for your baby.
It’s also suitable for conditions such as protein maldigestion, malabsorption/chronic diarrhea, short bowel syndrome & eosinophilic esophagitis. PurAmino is also appropriate for both oral and tube feeding.
Enfamil PurAmino Hypoallergenic Infant Formula Reviews
We have been on six different formulas due to his milk allergy and hurting. We were finally introduced to this brand and he’s been amazing on it, finally gaining the weight he needs!
Buy on Enfamil.com
Our PurAmino formula is a hypoallergenic, iron fortified, amino acid-based infant formula used for infants with severe cow’s milk protein allergy, and other food allergies. It has DHA & ARA, important fatty acids that support brain and eye development for your baby.
It’s also suitable for conditions such as protein maldigestion, malabsorption/chronic diarrhea, short bowel syndrome & eosinophilic esophagitis. PurAmino is also appropriate for both oral and tube feeding.
Enfamil PurAmino Hypoallergenic Infant Formula Reviews
We have been on six different formulas due to his milk allergy and hurting. We were finally introduced to this brand and he’s been amazing on it, finally gaining the weight he needs!
8. Neocate Amino Acid-Based Infant With DHA, ARA
Buy on Neocate.com
Neocate® Infant DHA/ARA is specially formulated for the dietary management of infants with cow milk allergy (CMA), multiple food allergies (MFA), and related conditions.
It is a specially formulated medical food and should only be used under medical supervision. It’s important to always contact a healthcare professional before making any changes to your baby’s diet.
– Added nucleotides & DHA/ARA
– Dairy-free
– Made in a dairy protein-free facility
– Soy oil-free
– No artificial colors, flavors, sweeteners
– Kosher Pareve
– Halal
Buy on Neocate.com
Neocate® Infant DHA/ARA is specially formulated for the dietary management of infants with cow milk allergy (CMA), multiple food allergies (MFA), and related conditions.
– Added nucleotides & DHA/ARA
– Dairy-free
– Made in a dairy protein-free facility
– Soy oil-free
– No artificial colors, flavors, sweeteners
– Kosher Pareve
– Halal
C. Organic Baby Milk Formula for Constipation
9. Happy Baby Organic Stage 1 Infant Formula
- For babies from 0 to 12 months with sensitive bellies
- Provides a complete nutrient blend with lactose reduced by 75% to ease occasional fussiness & gas in lactose-sensitive babies
- Digestive Support: Our prebiotic mix (GOS & FOS) mimics the function of prebiotics found in breast milk
- Non-GMO & Gluten-Free
Ratings
4.7 out of 5 - 2,894 global ratings
Review
My baby was born in March and we tried a lot of formulas. They made him constipated, projectile vomit, or gave him colic all night long. I tried 10-12 different formulas. My pediatrician then recommended I go for soy, since he figured baby had a milk allergy. I didn't want to go that route, so I tried this as a last resort. My baby started to sleep during the night again and he wasn't constipated or vomiting at all. He doesn't even have spit-up with this one. It has been wonderful and he's almost 6 months now. He's growing at a healthy rate and enjoys his milk.
To add, I tried some formulas that smelled so bad I felt I gagged. This one doesn't smell bad at all. The only con is the price and that I can only find it on Amazon or Target.
Buy on Amazon
4.7 out of 5 - 2,894 global ratings
Review
My baby was born in March and we tried a lot of formulas. They made him constipated, projectile vomit, or gave him colic all night long. I tried 10-12 different formulas. My pediatrician then recommended I go for soy, since he figured baby had a milk allergy. I didn't want to go that route, so I tried this as a last resort. My baby started to sleep during the night again and he wasn't constipated or vomiting at all. He doesn't even have spit-up with this one. It has been wonderful and he's almost 6 months now. He's growing at a healthy rate and enjoys his milk.
To add, I tried some formulas that smelled so bad I felt I gagged. This one doesn't smell bad at all. The only con is the price and that I can only find it on Amazon or Target.
Buy on Amazon
10. Holle Bio Pre Organic Infant Milk Formula
- Organic milk from cows raised on Demeter-certified farms
- Demeter is the top certification for biodynamic farms, requiring annual renewal, biodiversity and ecosystem preservation, no GMOs, and more
- No artificial preservatives, chemicals, flavors, or colors
- Chemical-free agriculture and manufacturing
- Certified organic to European standards (which are stricter than in the US)
- DHA
- No maltodextrin or starch
- Higher proportion of high-quality Demeter milk fat, and lower proportion of processed vegetable oils
- Appropriate from birth onwards
- GMO-free
- Shelf-stable
- Manufactured and packaged in Germany (instructions in English below)
Review
I was looking for a formula without soy AND with whole milk powder. Let me tell you all, I have NOT been disappointed! My son tolerates this formula SO well. He's not gassy & has been drinking it for weeks now. Wish I had this formula when my other 2 kids were infants!
Buy Now
11. Baby's Only Organic Gentle Dairy Toddler Formula
- Whey & Dairy Protein with DHA & ARA
-12.7 Oz
- Non-GMO | USDA Organic | Clean Label Project Verified
- Our Whey & Dairy with Organic DHA & ARA is formulated with a protein and carbohydrate composition more like that of breast milk to supports brain & eye development
- Added organic whey protein powder.
- Rated "Best in Class" by CleanLabelProject for purity & nutritional superiority
- Our DHA and ARA is hexane free, unlike the DHA and ARA derived from algae or fungus sources
- Made in the U.S.A.
Ratings
4.6 out of 5 - 2,470 global ratings
Review
Before ordering LactoRelief I called Nature's One to inquire about the amount of lactose in it. They said it's less than 1%-that's a big difference! I ordered it right away & our son has been on it ever since. His remaining gastric issues cleared up almost immediately & he's now 3 months old & doing terrific. We'll keep using this formula until he no longer needs formula.
Buy on Amazon
4.6 out of 5 - 2,470 global ratings
Review
Before ordering LactoRelief I called Nature's One to inquire about the amount of lactose in it. They said it's less than 1%-that's a big difference! I ordered it right away & our son has been on it ever since. His remaining gastric issues cleared up almost immediately & he's now 3 months old & doing terrific. We'll keep using this formula until he no longer needs formula.
Buy on Amazon
12. Bobbie Organic Infant Formula
Bobbie is a nutritionally complete, milk-based infant formula intended for full term, healthy infants (0-12 months of age). Bobbie’s protein ratio is similar to the protein ratio of breast milk and is designed to support gentle digestion, supporting those growing little tummies while being easy on the gut.
- It contains water-extracted (not hexane-extracted) DHA to help support brain development.
- Bobbie is one of the only U.S. formulas meeting both European & U.S. requirements for iron.
- All infant formulas are required to go through strict manufacturing procedures.
- Bobbie contains highly refined coconut oil, which does not contain allergens.
- Bobbie is not suitable for premature infants or infants with allergies to milk or soy.
- Gluten-free
- No palm oil, no corn syrup
- Non-GMO (ingredients not genetically engineered)
- No Maltodextrin
- No added natural or artificial flavors and colors (like all infant formulas)
- It contains water-extracted (not hexane-extracted) DHA to help support brain development.
- Bobbie is one of the only U.S. formulas meeting both European & U.S. requirements for iron.
- All infant formulas are required to go through strict manufacturing procedures.
- Bobbie contains highly refined coconut oil, which does not contain allergens.
- Bobbie is not suitable for premature infants or infants with allergies to milk or soy.
- Gluten-free
- No palm oil, no corn syrup
- Non-GMO (ingredients not genetically engineered)
- No Maltodextrin
- No added natural or artificial flavors and colors (like all infant formulas)
FAQs
1. Partially hydrolyzed formula vs Extensively hydrolyzed formula
Hydrolyzed literally means “broken apart.” Both formulas require less processing to absorb and are a good option for some newborns or infants who have difficulty digesting full-size proteins or have a history of digestive problems.
However, the proteins in extensively / fully hydrolyzed formulas are smaller than proteins in partially hydrolyzed formulas. And a study showed that partially hydrolyzed formula was found to be less effective than extensively hydrolyzed formula in preventing cow’s milk allergy.
Hydrolyzed literally means “broken apart.” Both formulas require less processing to absorb and are a good option for some newborns or infants who have difficulty digesting full-size proteins or have a history of digestive problems.
However, the proteins in extensively / fully hydrolyzed formulas are smaller than proteins in partially hydrolyzed formulas. And a study showed that partially hydrolyzed formula was found to be less effective than extensively hydrolyzed formula in preventing cow’s milk allergy.
However, the proteins in extensively / fully hydrolyzed formulas are smaller than proteins in partially hydrolyzed formulas. And a study showed that partially hydrolyzed formula was found to be less effective than extensively hydrolyzed formula in preventing cow’s milk allergy.
2. How do I know if my baby needs hypoallergenic formula?
Here are 6 signs your baby might need hypoallergenic formula.
a. Extreme Irritability
If your baby cries for long periods of time, it may be a good idea to discuss this with your doctor. He can evaluate your baby further and help diagnose a cow’s milk allergy. In this case, switching to a hypoallergenic baby formula may help your baby’s symptoms.
b. Family History of Food Allergies
If you or a member of your family has a history of food allergies, your baby is more likely to have one as well. An extensive French study done in 2019 showed a strong genetic link in cow’s milk protein allergies (CMPA).
c. Constant diarrhea / vomiting
d. Your baby has acid reflux (GERD)
Acid reflux is what happens when stomach contents and acid flow back up into the throat. This is a common problem in infants, especially those below 3 months old. Hypoallergenic formula may help reduce the symptoms.
e. Eczema
Your baby’s skin is sensitive, which can make it difficult to tell the difference between dry skin and eczema. Eczema is extreme dry skin that is red, inflamed, itchy, and often cracked. Babies with eczema are more likely to develop food allergies and oftentimes will develop skin symptoms before other food allergy symptoms appear. (Source)
f. Respiratory Issues
If your baby is wheezing or experiencing other respiratory issues, your baby may need immediate medical attention. See a doctor as quickly as possible.
Above all, if you're unsure, best consult a doctor for determining the best formula for your baby.
Related Articles
Here are 6 signs your baby might need hypoallergenic formula.
a. Extreme Irritability
If your baby cries for long periods of time, it may be a good idea to discuss this with your doctor. He can evaluate your baby further and help diagnose a cow’s milk allergy. In this case, switching to a hypoallergenic baby formula may help your baby’s symptoms.
b. Family History of Food Allergies
If you or a member of your family has a history of food allergies, your baby is more likely to have one as well. An extensive French study done in 2019 showed a strong genetic link in cow’s milk protein allergies (CMPA).
If your baby cries for long periods of time, it may be a good idea to discuss this with your doctor. He can evaluate your baby further and help diagnose a cow’s milk allergy. In this case, switching to a hypoallergenic baby formula may help your baby’s symptoms.
b. Family History of Food Allergies
If you or a member of your family has a history of food allergies, your baby is more likely to have one as well. An extensive French study done in 2019 showed a strong genetic link in cow’s milk protein allergies (CMPA).
c. Constant diarrhea / vomiting
d. Your baby has acid reflux (GERD)
Acid reflux is what happens when stomach contents and acid flow back up into the throat. This is a common problem in infants, especially those below 3 months old. Hypoallergenic formula may help reduce the symptoms.
e. Eczema
Your baby’s skin is sensitive, which can make it difficult to tell the difference between dry skin and eczema. Eczema is extreme dry skin that is red, inflamed, itchy, and often cracked. Babies with eczema are more likely to develop food allergies and oftentimes will develop skin symptoms before other food allergy symptoms appear. (Source)
f. Respiratory Issues
If your baby is wheezing or experiencing other respiratory issues, your baby may need immediate medical attention. See a doctor as quickly as possible.
d. Your baby has acid reflux (GERD)
Acid reflux is what happens when stomach contents and acid flow back up into the throat. This is a common problem in infants, especially those below 3 months old. Hypoallergenic formula may help reduce the symptoms.
e. Eczema
Your baby’s skin is sensitive, which can make it difficult to tell the difference between dry skin and eczema. Eczema is extreme dry skin that is red, inflamed, itchy, and often cracked. Babies with eczema are more likely to develop food allergies and oftentimes will develop skin symptoms before other food allergy symptoms appear. (Source)
f. Respiratory Issues
If your baby is wheezing or experiencing other respiratory issues, your baby may need immediate medical attention. See a doctor as quickly as possible.
Above all, if you're unsure, best consult a doctor for determining the best formula for your baby.
Related Articles
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