Question

A parent inquired that their child, just 15 days old, has been experiencing as many as 10 bowel movements a day, with stools resembling tofu pudding and frequent flatulence. The child’s diet and general mood are good, but the parent is concerned about this situation.

Answer

Nutrition and Health Care experts suggest that the child’s digestive discomfort may be related to overfeeding or the underdeveloped digestive system of a newborn. Symptoms of dyspepsia include increased stool frequency, abdominal pain, and frequent flatulence. Experts recommend administering oral lactase to the child, ensuring proper warmth, and feeding on a timely and quantified basis to avoid overfeeding. Additionally, adopting a small meals, frequent feeding approach can help prevent the child from getting cold or overfed.