Your Baby's Stool Changes After Switching to Hydrolyzed Formula

Q: Your Baby's Stool Changes After Switching to Hydrolyzed Formula

Hello： It is normal for stool color to be yellow-green, and loose stools can also be normal. <br>Different formulas may cause variations in stool consistency and can lead to symptoms like bloating. <br>It is recommended to bring a stool sample to the clinic for the doctor to exam

Baby's stool is watery?

Hello, doctor.
My baby has recently switched to hydrolyzed formula and has been drinking it for a week.
Today, I noticed that his stool is golden yellow, but at the end, it comes out watery with some pieces resembling rice grains.
The front part of the golden yellow stool is soft and paste-like, similar to toothpaste.
Is this normal? Previously, when he was on S26, he would have a bowel movement every 3 to 4 days and also spit up.
Now that he has been on the hydrolyzed formula for 7 days, the first 6 days were normal.
What could be the reason for this? Is it related to the formula change, or is there another reason?

Bao, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2010/01/07

Dr. Xie Degui reply Pediatrics

Hello: It is normal for stool color to be yellow-green, and loose stools can also be normal.
Different formulas may cause variations in stool consistency and can lead to symptoms like bloating.
It is recommended to bring a stool sample to the clinic for the doctor to examine for confirmation.

Reply Date: 2010/01/07

More Info

When transitioning your baby to a hydrolyzed formula, it is common to observe changes in stool consistency, color, and frequency. Hydrolyzed formulas are designed to be easier to digest, particularly for infants with allergies or intolerances to standard formulas. They contain proteins that are broken down into smaller peptides, which can help reduce the likelihood of allergic reactions and improve digestion.

In your case, the stool changes you are observing—golden yellow color with a toothpaste-like consistency and some watery output—can be attributed to the switch in formula. It is important to note that the stool of infants can vary significantly based on their diet, and changes are often normal during such transitions.
Typically, breastfed infants have softer stools, which can be yellow and seedy, while formula-fed infants may have stools that are more formed and tan or brown in color. With hydrolyzed formulas, you might notice a stool that is more liquid than what you were accustomed to with the previous formula (S26). The presence of small, rice-like particles in the stool could be undigested food particles or remnants of the formula itself, which is not uncommon as the baby adjusts to the new formula.

The frequency of bowel movements can also change. If your baby was previously having bowel movements every 3 to 4 days and is now experiencing a different pattern, this could be due to the new formula. Hydrolyzed formulas can sometimes lead to more frequent bowel movements, especially in the initial days of transition.
It is essential to monitor your baby for any signs of discomfort, such as excessive fussiness, abdominal pain, or signs of dehydration (like fewer wet diapers). If your baby seems comfortable, is feeding well, and is gaining weight appropriately, these stool changes are likely within the normal range.
However, if you notice any concerning symptoms—such as blood in the stool, persistent diarrhea, or if the baby appears to be in pain—it is crucial to consult your pediatrician. They can provide guidance tailored to your baby's specific needs and help determine if the formula is suitable or if further evaluation is necessary.

In summary, while changes in stool after switching to a hydrolyzed formula can be normal, it is always best to keep an open line of communication with your healthcare provider to ensure your baby's health and well-being. Regular check-ups and discussions about feeding and digestion can help you navigate these transitions with confidence.

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