WORRIED ABOUT GREENY STOOLS IN BABIES?

Green stools in babies can be alarming for parents, but in most cases, they are not a cause for concern. The colour of a baby’s stool can vary depending on diet, digestion, and other factors. Here’s a look at the common causes of green stools in babies and how to address them:

Causes of Green Stools in Babies

1. Dietary Factors:
   1. Breastfeeding: Sometimes, if a baby is getting more foremilk (the lower-fat milk that comes first during a breastfeeding session) and less hind milk (the richer, fattier milk that comes later), the stool can appear green. This might happen if the baby is not feeding long enough on each breast.
   1. Formula Feeding: Some infant formulas, particularly those with added iron, can cause green stools.
   1. Solid Foods: When babies start eating solid foods, especially green vegetables like spinach or peas, their stools can turn green.
2. Digestive Changes:
   1. Fast Transit Time: If food moves too quickly through the baby’s intestines, bile (which is green) doesn’t have enough time to break down, resulting in green stools.
   1. Infection or Illness: Viral or bacterial infections (such as a stomach bug) can cause diarrhoea, which may appear green. This could be due to the rapid transit of stool through the intestines.
3. Medications:
   1. If the baby or breastfeeding mother is taking certain medications, such as antibiotics, it can affect the baby’s stool colour.
4. Allergies or Food Sensitivities:
   1. Some babies might have a sensitivity or allergy to something in the mother’s diet (if breastfeeding) or in their own formula or food. This can cause green stools along with other symptoms like irritability, rash, or vomiting.
5. Jaundice Treatment:
   1. Babies treated for jaundice with phototherapy can sometimes pass greenish stools. This is usually harmless and temporary.

Treatment and Management

1. Monitor Feeding:
   1. For Breastfeeding Mothers: Ensure that the baby is nursing long enough on each breast to get both foremilk and hind milk. If you’re switching breasts too quickly, try allowing the baby to feed longer on one side before offering the other.
   1. For Formula Feeding: If you suspect the formula might be causing green stools, consult your paediatrician. They may suggest trying a different formula.
2. Check for Dehydration:
   1. If green stools are accompanied by diarrhoea, watch for signs of dehydration such as decreased urine output, dry mouth, and lethargy. Ensure the baby is getting enough fluids and consult a doctor if you suspect dehydration.
3. Observe for Other Symptoms:
   1. If green stools are accompanied by symptoms like fever, vomiting, irritability, or poor feeding, it might indicate an infection or allergy. In such cases, consult a paediatrician for further evaluation.
4. Avoid Overfeeding:
   1. Overfeeding can sometimes lead to green stools due to faster digestive transit. Feed the baby smaller, more frequent meals if overfeeding is suspected.
5. Medications:
   1. If the baby is on medication, or if the breastfeeding mother is taking any medications, consult the doctor to see if they might be causing the green stools.

When to See a Doctor

• Persistent Diarrhoea: If green stools are watery and persist for more than a day or two, it could be a sign of an infection.
• Other Concerning Symptoms: If green stools are accompanied by blood, mucus, or if the baby seems unwell (fever, irritability, vomiting), seek medical advice promptly.
• Suspected Allergies: If you notice that the green stools are accompanied by other signs of an allergy (such as a rash or persistent vomiting), consult a doctor for appropriate tests and treatment.

patientlifematter.com Green stools in babies are often benign and linked to dietary factors or digestive changes. However, if you notice any accompanying symptoms or persistent changes, it’s best to consult a healthcare professional to rule out any underlying issues.