What Causes Blackish Green Hard Stools In A Child?

Posted on Fri, 13 Jan 2017

Medically reviewed by Ask A Doctor - 24x7 Medical Review Team

Fri, 13 Jan 2017 Answered on

Fri, 3 Feb 2017 Last reviewed on

Question : Hi dr. My 11 month old daughter has been having blackish green hard stools for a few months now. She constantly strains when having a bowel movement and often times only a hard small pellet will come out.Only after looking online did I read that it's constipation and a sign of too much iron. I feel so horrible! She is on alimentum formula poisoned her. I am beyond upset. What can I do to help this situation?

Answered by Dr. Arun (1 hour later)

Brief Answer:
Increase fiber no need to worry

Detailed Answer:
Hi
Thanks for writing to us.
I understand that you are deeply concerned about your child having constipation.
Let me reassure you. Many infants at this age are constipated.
The main reason being less fiber intake and predominantly milk or formula fed diet.
I will suggest you these tips
1. Increase fruits and vegetables in diet alimg with adequate water guided by thirst. This will help in formation of softer stools.
2. No need to stop iron supplement. It is very important for your baby. You can give iron supplement along with orange juice to help in absorption and to decrease constipation. Avoid giving iron supplement with milk or formula.

She will improve, dont worry.
Wishing your child good health and speedy recovery.
Regards
Dr Arun

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar