Formula-fed babies may have stools that are paste-like or resemble egg drop soup, which is usually normal, especially related to the baby’s physiological characteristics, external environmental factors, or dietary conditions. For example, babies under six months old, whose gastrointestinal systems are still developing, may have their bowel frequency and consistency easily influenced by their food intake. Children who are breastfed or formula-fed typically have bowel movements 3-5 times a day with a soft and uniform texture, which is a sign of good health.
Sometimes, if a baby’s abdomen is not kept warm, they may have looser stools due to cold exposure. In this case, parents need to ensure the baby’s abdomen is kept warm and consider appropriate heat compresses to help relieve the issue.
However, paste-like stools may also indicate some pathological problems. For instance, the high protein content in formula may sometimes be difficult to fully digest, potentially leading to food accumulation in the intestines and causing digestive issues. In such cases, the child may experience symptoms like abdominal bloating, loss of appetite, and frequent diarrhea. Doctors may recommend probiotics to adjust the gut flora and alleviate these discomforts.
Additionally, gastroenteritis, especially that caused by bacterial infections, is also one of the common reasons for abnormal stool in infants. It is often accompanied by symptoms like vomiting, fever, and persistent crying, requiring antibiotic treatment under a doctor’s guidance, such as amoxicillin or cefuroxime.
It’s worth noting that, aside from the common reasons mentioned, less common diseases like irritable bowel syndrome or acute mesenteric lymphadenitis may also lead to similar symptoms. In facing these situations, timely medical attention for professional examination is especially important. In daily care, maintaining reasonable feeding habits, avoiding overfeeding, and ensuring the hygiene of bottles and nipples are key measures to prevent and alleviate these issues.
