You may have heard many moms mention that it is OK to give babies Karo syrup when they are constipated. But like many moms, or dads, you have your doubts. First things first though, are you really sure your baby is constipated? It is best to learn about constipation in babies and why Karo syrup is Ok or not.

Constipation in babies is lot different from kids and grownups.  Some babies have the tendency to poop many times in a day, while others can go without pooping even for a week. I know, because I have four kids who were different when it comes to their poop habbits when they were babies.

So, there is no need to worry if your baby or toddler does not poop as often as you’d expect. Breastfed babies tend to poop less frequently than babies that are formula fed.

Constipation among babies refers to the consistency of the stool rather than its frequency. It is manifested by infrequent hard stool that appears to be painful to excrete.

If your baby is having a hard time to poop, like you see her extend her legs and squeeze her buttocks to prevent bowel movements, cries her “ouch mommy cry”.  No matter how frequent your baby poops and you may notice liquid stools in your baby’s diaper. Liquid stools are also sign of constipation as liquid stools tend to slip past the blockage in the lower intestine and end up in your baby’s diaper.

Constipation in babies may have been caused by: changing her formula, dehydration, introduction of solid foods and a medical condition or illness. So it is best to consult with your doctor.

However, you may try the first aid to constipation which is adding more water in your baby’s diet. Karo syrup may help for older babies as proven by many moms and dads that have told you so. Karo syrup should be diluted in plain water, not with your baby’s formula. Dilute 1 teaspoon of Karo syrup in 4 ounces of the water

Never over do this Karo syrup relief though as excess in karo syrup among infants and children can cause diarrhea and loss in electrolyte.

There is also this helpful fact that have been posted in KAro syrups website FAQ :

“ Because corn syrup, like many other foods is not a sterile product, there is a remote possibility that it may contain C. botulinum spores. These spores are common in the environment and generally not harmful to older children and adults.

In fact, in the FDA study conducted in 1991, corn syrup and other syrups are not identified as food sources of C. botulinum spores for infants. However, because Karo is not specifically intended for infant feeding, we suggest you consult your pediatrician for advice.”

Other remedy to help your baby with constipation is to give her fruits if she is already eating solid foods. Let her have more physical activities like crawling or if she is not yet a crawler, then while your baby is lying down, try pumping her legs like she were pedaling a bicycle.  A gentle massage on your baby’s belly also helps.