When babies enter the world, there are many things for them to become familiar with. The most important is food and how it affects their bodies. If newborns struggle to digest food properly, constipation may be the end result. Parents should monitor their baby's bowel movements to make sure there is no cause for concern. To alleviate potential cases of constipation, here are some tips for moms and dads.

Look for fiber-rich foods

Although your baby has his or her own preferences when it comes to foods, certain items may only increase their constipation. Parents should try to incorporate fiber-rich foods into their children's diet. Pears, apricots, peaches and plums can help babies avoid constipation while items like bananas, carrots and cheese can only make it worse.

Switch up formulas

If the transition to formula is not going well, mothers can revert to breastfeeding for a while or change to a different formula type. Even a small dietary variance can work wonders in relieving constipation in babies.

Try supplements

Sometimes babies are missing the essential vitamins and nutrients they need to digest food in a healthy way. In this case, parents should try providing their little ones with supplements. Magnesium citrate can soften stool and make it easier to pass, while probiotics can not only alleviate constipation but help with colic and acid reflux. Talk to your doctor about potential supplements for your child.

Watch water intake

Regular bowel movements are a direct product of hydration. Parents should keep track of the amount of water their baby drinks in a day. Give your child spoonfuls of water at regular intervals to soften up his or her stool and make it easier to process.

Offer fruit juice

There's a reason why children and adults alike dislike prunes - it's a natural laxative. Giving babies a bit of its juice is often the first suggestion parent's will encounter to relieve constipation. The sugars in other juices can help as well, but keep the amount to around two ounces after feeding time is over.

Talk to your doctor

Every baby is different and reacts to various constipation-relief techniques in his or her own way. Testing out a few strategies can't hurt, but if the problem is chronic or if there is blood in the stool, parents should contact a doctor immediately. The advice of a medical professional may be able to alleviate the constipation more quickly than trying various fixes.