Best Formula for Constipation

Best Formula for Constipated Babies: Organic's Best Top Picks

Most often, infant constipation is the result of an immature digestive system or a reaction to certain ingredients in formula. Constipation in babies can also occur during times of change, such as when transitioning from breast milk to formula, introducing solid foods, or a reduction in formula or liquid intake.

Keep in mind that when targeting infant constipation, goat milk formulas aren't a safe choice for babies with a cow's milk protein allergy (CMPA), and comfort or hydrolyzed formulas may not suit every infant. Similarly, neither option is ideal for babies with lactose intolerance.

Always consult your pediatrician before adjusting your baby's feeding routine, as they can offer personalized recommendations for your specific feeding situation and recommend some of the best formulas for constipation.

If infant constipation is a part of your parenting journey, here are some of the best formulas to prevent constipation. All of these formulas can be offered alongside breast milk or as a complement to breast milk.

HiPP Comfort

HiPP Comfort is one of the best baby formulas for constipation, as well as colic or excessive gas, because it's specifically designed for the dietary management of digestive discomfort. This gentle formula features extensively hydrolyzed whey proteins, beta-palmitate fats, and reduced lactose to promote softer and more regular stools.

The special fat blend in this formula mimics the structure of human milk fat, helping prevent stool hardening and making bowel movements more comfortable for babies.

This single-stage formula is suitable from birth. It comes in two versions: Hipp Comfort German, which includes prebiotics, probiotics, and Metafolin, and Hipp Comfort UK, which includes prebiotics and folic acid.

Although it's not certified organic due to its protein hydrolysis, this Comfort formula is made with non-GMO ingredients and adheres to the brand's famously high standards, making it a trusted choice for parents seeking to help relieve their babies' constipation.

Kendamil Comfort

Kendamil Comfort is another great formula for constipated newborns and infants, as it targets digestive issues such as constipation and colic.

This formula features partially hydrolyzed whey protein for easier absorption, prebiotics for gut health, and a reduced lactose content to ease bloating.

The inclusion of soluble dextrin and alpha-lactalbumin further supports smoother digestion, while the brand's signature use of whole milk creates a creamy, nutrient-rich formula that babies love.

Although not organic, this specialty formula is vegetarian, palm oil-free, and fish oil-free, highlighting the brand's commitment to quality and purity. This Comfort milk provides balanced nutrition from birth, while supporting your baby's digestive comfort and regularity.

Holle Goat

Holle Goat is a well-loved organic goat milk formula celebrated for its gentle nature and easy digestibility. As the first goat milk option on our list, it's worth noting some of the natural advantages of goat milk, such as its ability to form softer curds in the stomach, which can ease constipation and encourage more regular digestion.

Made with whole goat milk, lactose, plant-based DHA, and palm oil-free vegetable oils, this formula nourishes your baby naturally. It's available in German, Dutch, and Global versions, each with a slightly varying carbohydrate makeup.

The Global line is lactose-only, making it ideal for babies with sensitive digestion. In contrast, the German and Dutch formulas include starch and maltodextrin from Stage 2 onward to provide added creaminess and satiation.

Whichever version you choose, Holle offers a simple, wholesome approach to easing baby constipation through the naturally soothing qualities of goat's milk.

Kendamil Goat

Kendamil Goat Formula is great if your baby is constipated, since it contains gentle A2 whole goat milk, making it naturally easier to digest than traditional cow milk formulas. Its lactose-only carbohydrates and added prebiotics also support smoother digestion and more regular bowel movements.

This goat milk formula helps keep your little one from getting backed up, without compromising on nutrition, thanks to its rich source of natural milk fats and the exclusion of palm and fish oils.

While not organic, this formula is non-GMO and vegetarian, available in both UK and Czech versions, with the UK range offering multiple stages to grow with your baby. Its extra creamy, naturally sweet flavour makes it a comforting favourite for constipated babies.

Jovie Goat

Jovie Goat also makes our list as a top goat milk if your baby is constipated, thanks to its full-fat organic goat milk base and nutrient-rich formulation. The combination of lactose-only carbohydrates, natural milk fats, and prebiotics helps support softer stools and better gut health.

Free from palm oil and made with only clean, organic ingredients, this gentle formula is a premium option for babies with sensitive digestion who are prone to constipation.

This organic goat milk line comes in three stages, ensuring a smooth feeding experience from infancy through the first year.

HiPP Goat

This organic goat milk formula provides a gentle alternative for babies struggling with constipation. Built on a base of A2 beta-casein goat milk proteins and lactose-based carbohydrates, this formula is enriched with prebiotics to support gut flora and promote healthy digestion.

As one of the best formulas for constipation, this formula is manufactured in Germany to the highest European standards. HiPP Goat is available in Stages 1 and 2, making it an excellent choice for both newborn infants and weaning-age babies.

Nannycare Goat

Nannycare Goat is one of the best baby milks for constipation. This premium choice is crafted in the UK from 100% full-cream goat milk. It doesn't contain palm oil, uses lactose as its only carbohydrate, and is enriched with prebiotics promoting gentle digestion and softer, more regular stools.

Although it is not organic, the product exclusively uses non-GMO ingredients and strives to maintain its natural composition. Its minimal processing retains the inherent nutrients of goat milk, and the omission of goat whey helps ensure it remains gentle and pure, without excessive processing.

Available in Stages 1-3, this goat milk formula provides a smooth and nourishing feeding experience from the early newborn days to toddlerhood.

Pure Goat

Pure Goat is also on our list of best infant formulas for constipation since it is crafted with a clean, simple approach, using whole goat milk, lactose-only carbohydrates, and plant-based DHA to provide complete nutrition while remaining gentle on your baby's digestive system.

This carefully formulated recipe is designed to be both gentle and nourishing, providing babies with the essential nutrients they need for growth without overstressing a sensitive tummy. The range is available in Stages 1-3, ensuring that as your baby grows, they continue to receive the same level of comfort and digestive support.

Löwehnzahn Goat

Produced by a mom-founded German brand, Löwenzahn Organics Goat Formula blends organic whole goat milk, algae-based DHA, and ARA for complete digestive support.

Stage PRE is lactose-only and extra gentle, while Stage 2 includes a touch of creamy starch to help little ones feel fuller. While most ingredients are derived from goat milk, the lactose and prebiotics come from cow's milk, making this formula best suited for babies without cow's milk sensitivities.

It's a nourishing, palm oil-free choice designed to promote comfort and regularity in your baby's digestion.

Understanding Constipation in Babies

Constipation in infants typically presents as hard, dry, or infrequent stools and is often characterized by fewer than three bowel movements per week. While many infants outgrow constipation as their digestive systems mature, it can be challenging to tackle during that first year.

For formula-fed infants, who tend to experience constipation more often than breastfed babies, certain ingredients or formula characteristics can contribute to digestive issues.

When looking at what causes constipation in babies, several factors stand out, such as formulas with a high casein-to-whey protein ratio, which can be more difficult to digest. The absence of prebiotics may limit the growth of beneficial gut bacteria that support smooth digestion, and therefore can contribute to baby constipation. Some formulas also contain palm oil, which can create a buildup of calcium soap in stool, leading to hard bowel movements.

Selecting a formula specifically designed to support gentle digestion and softer stools can help your little one feel more comfortable and restore digestive balance more quickly.

Regular hydration, attention to feeding habits, and guidance from your pediatrician can also play a key role in keeping your baby's digestion on track.

Signs Your Baby Needs a Constipation Formula

Watch for these signs that may indicate your baby could benefit from a formula that helps with constipation:

• Hard, dry, or pebble-like stools

• Infrequent or skipped bowel movements

• Straining, grunting, or crying during bowel movements

• A bloated, gassy, or firm abdomen

• Fussiness or irritability after feeding

• Excessive gas or discomfort after eating

• Loss of appetite or feeding less than usual

• Small streaks of blood in stool from straining

• Difficulty sleeping due to tummy discomfort

If you're noticing persistent or extreme signs of constipation in baby, blood in stools, or severe discomfort, they should be urgently evaluated by a pediatrician to rule out underlying conditions.

How Goat Milk & Comfort Formula Can Help with Constipated Baby

Goat milk and comfort formulas are often the best options for constipation in most cases, as they are specifically designed to support babies who experience constipation and other digestive discomforts.

Goat milk formulas naturally form softer curds in the stomach, contain smaller fat globules, and have a higher proportion of short- and medium-chain fatty acids, compared to cow's milk, which makes digestion easier and helps produce softer, more comfortable stools.

Additionally, the A2 beta-casein protein in goat milk is gentler on the gut compared with the A1 protein found in most cow's milk, making it less likely to trigger digestive issues.

Comfort formulas, such as HiPP Comfort and Kendamil Comfort, are carefully crafted to address multiple common digestive challenges, including constipation, gas, and colic, through the thoughtful selection of ingredients. These formulas often include:

• Partially or extensively hydrolyzed proteins to reduce the effort needed for digestion

• Reduced lactose content to help minimize bloating and discomfort associated with lactose sensitivity

• Healthy fats that closely mimic the structure of breast milk fat, promoting softer stools and smoother digestion

Together, these features help support your baby's digestive system, making bowel movements easier while still providing complete nutrition for growth and development.

For many infants, switching to a goat milk or comfort formula can bring noticeable relief from constipation and other tummy troubles, helping both baby and parents feel more comfortable.

FAQs on Baby Constipation

Here are some of the most commonly asked questions about constipation in babies.

Should I Change Formula if Baby is Constipated?

If your baby consistently has hard or infrequent stools, a formula change might help. Always consult your pediatrician before switching, especially if constipation is accompanied by vomiting, blood in the stool, or poor feeding habits.

Does Formula Cause Constipation?

Some standard formulas contain ingredients that can firm stools, such as palm oil or higher casein levels. Opting for a comfort or goat milk formula with prebiotics and no palm oil may help reduce constipation due to their stool-softening effects.

Can Changing Formula Cause Constipation?

Yes, temporary constipation can occur as your baby's gut adjusts to a new formula or when switching from breast milk to formula. This is normal and usually resolves within a few days. Be patient and consult your pediatrician if symptoms persist.

Which Formula Milk Causes Less Constipation?

Formulas with lactose as the main carbohydrate, no palm oil, added prebiotics, probiotics, and gentle proteins are less likely to cause constipation. Options like HiPP Comfort, Kendamil Comfort, and Jovie Goat are highly regarded for promoting healthy digestion and softer stools.