Infants often experience a slightly weak constitution during the teething period, and occasional cases of diarrhea are common. Because the baby’s gastrointestinal system is still in the early stages of development and is delicate, even slight negligence may lead to diarrhea. When faced with a baby’s diarrhea, parents should remain calm.
Observing the characteristics of the stool is crucial: if the stool has a stronger odor, it indicates poor protein digestion, and the intake of dairy products can be moderately reduced or diluted; increased foam in the stool suggests carbohydrate digestion issues and a need to reduce starchy foods; if the stool appears greasy, it reflects poor fat absorption, so fatty foods should be controlled. At this time, administering digestive enzyme medications to children, such as food enzymes and lactase, can help improve digestion. Continuous use for about two weeks, along with considering pediatric spinal massage therapy as a complementary treatment.
Adjusting the diet structure appropriately gives the digestive system a chance to rest. Temporary cessation of adding complementary foods, avoidance of hard-to-digest foods, moderate reduction in breastfeeding quantity and frequency, and longer intervals between breastfeeding sessions can help reduce the gastrointestinal burden on the baby.
Daily care during diarrhea is equally important: ensure the diaper is clean and dry to prevent diaper rash and skin infections. Immediately change wet diapers and carefully clean the buttocks after each diaper change, applying diaper rash cream if necessary. During diarrhea, suspend introducing complementary foods until the symptoms improve, gradually resume and strictly control food portions to avoid overfeeding, especially with meat. Provide easily digestible soft foods, such as noodle soup or rice porridge, to maintain nutritional supply during diarrhea.
Additionally, pay attention to replenishing fluids and electrolyte balance by increasing water intake or oral rehydration salts. If dehydration due to severe diarrhea occurs, prompt medical attention for intravenous fluid administration should be considered. It is important to note that during diarrhea, excessive consumption of honey water or bananas by the baby should be avoided to prevent worsening of the condition.
