Young parents are constantly worried about the child's stool. Changes in color or consistency can plunge them into real panic. They are especially worried when complementary foods begin.
A child who is breastfed has a yellow stool with a mushy consistency, it can have a sour odor or lumps. A baby with a normally functioning intestine will have such a chair. When the child grows up a little and it is time to introduce complementary foods into the diet, the time for surprises begins for the parents.
Where to start complementary foods
For babies with generally normal bowel movements, it is best to start complementary foods by adding fruits or vegetables to the diet. The same is true for children who are constipated. With diarrhea, with frequent stools, you need to start with cereals. Of course, we are talking about healthy children without any deviations in digestion.
At the beginning of complementary feeding, no more than one new product can be given to a child at a time. After the baby tries something new, you need to wait a few days - from three to seven. Only if the child has tolerated the new food normally can other foods be continued.
Complementary foods are introduced in tiny portions, no more than two or three spoons at a time. A new dish should be served in the morning - if diarrhea begins, it will be easier to monitor the child's condition, because this will happen in the daytime. After the introduction of complementary foods, the consistency of the stool, as well as its color, will change slightly.
With the introduction of food that is thicker than the child has received until now, he will need to provide additional drink. Water or other liquid should be given to the child, focusing on his desires and needs.
How baby's stool can change after complementary foods
After feeding broccoli, pears or other green fruits, stools can turn green, which can seriously scare inexperienced mothers. But usually everything is much simpler - baby feces are the same color as the product at the entrance. Using products of a different color may result in the same color, but with a slightly greenish tint. This change means that the intestines have reacted absolutely normally to unfamiliar food.
After the introduction of complementary foods, the child's feces can change in color and density. His color is more intense. The consistency becomes slightly thicker. White lumps may appear - an indication that the food was introduced in too much for the baby and was not completely digested. The child may now have less stool - all this provided that the product is normally assimilated and there are no problems with digestion.
You should be wary, and possibly consult a doctor if the child's stool is watery, has an unpleasant fetid odor, and becomes more frequent.
