Causes of Green Colored Baby Stools

Generally, newborns have a dark green stool called meconium. Meanwhile, babies who have been breastfed will pass yellow or green stools. You may feel worried when you find green stools when changing diapers. Usually, green baby stools are interpreted as a sign that they are not digesting food well.

The following are some of the factors that cause green baby poop, namely:

Foods and Medicines for Breastfeeding Mothers

For breastfeeding mothers who consume a lot of green vegetables or foods and drinks that contain green food coloring, this condition can change the color of breast milk and baby's stools to green. In addition, some types of medications taken by breastfeeding mothers such as antibiotics and zinc supplements can also cause the same thing.

Babies are sick

A baby's stomach that is attacked by a virus will have an impact on the color of the stool and also the consistency of the bowel movements, especially during diarrhea. Green baby poop can also occur in infants who consume formula milk.

Foremilk or hindmilk factor

A balanced supply of foremilk and hindmilk is very important for the baby. Foremilk is the thin milk that comes out first when a mother breastfeeds. The hindmilk is the thicker milk that comes at the end of the breastfeeding process. Generally, foremilk is low in calories and high in lactose, while hindmilk is high in fat. Babies who consume too much foremilk may have green bowel movements. This is usually because the breastfeeding process at each breast is not long enough.

To overcome this, allow your baby to suckle on one side of the breast longer to get higher milk fat. Alternatively, you can start the breastfeeding process with the side of the breast that was last sucked by the child.

Baby sensitivities and allergies

Babies can be sensitive to foods and medicines that you take. The baby's bowel movements may be green and contain mucus because of something the mother has consumed. Although this condition is rare, when it occurs it is usually accompanied by digestive problems, skin disorders, and breathing problems. Older babies may also experience this when they are introduced to foods.

Food consumed by infants

When your baby starts to be introduced to solid food, it will affect the color of his poop. The green color of the baby's poop can also come from foods such as pureed beans, peas, and spinach.

Mucus present

Teething in babies can result in excessive saliva production. This results in green mucus in the baby's stools. But beware, this condition may also indicate an infection.

In many cases, green baby stools may be accompanied by diarrhea. Make sure your baby gets plenty of fluids to avoid dehydration. If the green poop does not disappear within a few days, it is advisable to contact a doctor immediately for consultation.