If you’re reading this, you’re probably a worried parent dealing with something far more stressful than a pile of dirty laundry—a constipated baby. And if your little one is straining, crying, or going days without a comfortable poop, we see you. Constipation in infants is not only common…it’s overwhelming.
The good news? Sometimes, the right formula can make all the difference.
At HolleHiPPos, we help parents find gentle, digestion-friendly formulas that support softer stools, smoother digestion, and calmer tummies. In this blog, we’ll walk you through the best baby formulas for constipation, why constipation happens, and which ingredients can help bring your baby relief.
Why Babies Get Constipated?
Constipation is common during infancy, especially among formula-fed babies. As your baby's digestive system develops, bowel movements may become less frequent or harder to pass. While occasional constipation is normal, persistent discomfort may signal that your baby's digestive system needs additional support.
Several factors can contribute to constipation, including:
- An immature digestive system that is still learning to process food efficiently
- Switching to a new infant formula
- Sensitivity to certain milk proteins or ingredients
- Certain fats or starches that may affect stool consistency
- Mild dehydration, particularly during hot weather or illness
- Starting solid foods, which can temporarily change bowel movements
The good news is that choosing a gentle, easy-to-digest infant formula can often support more comfortable digestion and softer stools.
How Can You Tell if Your Baby Is Constipated?
Every baby has a different bowel movement pattern, so it's important to look at stool consistency and your baby's comfort rather than the number of dirty diapers alone.
Common signs of constipation include:
- Hard, dry, or pellet-like stools
- Straining or crying during bowel movements
- Infrequent bowel movements compared with your baby's normal routine
- A bloated or firm tummy
- Excessive gas
- Fussiness or discomfort after feedings
- Blood streaks caused by small tears from passing hard stools
If your baby has persistent constipation, severe pain, vomiting, or blood in their stool, contact your pediatrician promptly.
Can Baby Formula Cause Constipation?
Some babies experience constipation after switching formulas or when adjusting to a new feeding routine. This doesn't necessarily mean the formula is "bad," but every baby's digestive system responds differently.
Certain ingredients may influence digestion, including:
- The type of milk proteins used
- The fat blend
- Whether prebiotics or probiotics are included
- The carbohydrate source
- Individual digestive sensitivity
If your baby consistently struggles with hard stools after switching formulas, it may be worth discussing another option with your pediatrician. Many parents find that gentle formulas containing hydrolyzed proteins, A2 proteins, goat milk, or added prebiotics better support comfortable digestion.
Breastfed Babies vs. Formula-Fed Babies
Breastfed babies and formula-fed babies often have different bowel movement patterns.
Breast milk is naturally easy to digest, so breastfed babies usually have softer stools and are less likely to experience constipation. Formula-fed babies may have firmer stools because infant formula is digested differently and contains a different balance of proteins and fats.
This doesn't mean formula causes constipation for every baby. Many babies thrive on infant formula without digestive issues. However, if constipation becomes frequent, switching to a gentler formula may help improve stool consistency and overall comfort.
Ingredients That Help Relieve Constipation
Not all infant formulas are the same. Certain ingredients may better support healthy digestion and regular bowel movements.
Hydrolyzed Proteins
Proteins that are partially broken down can be easier for some babies to digest and may help reduce digestive discomfort.
A2 Milk Proteins
Found naturally in goat milk and A2 cow's milk, these proteins are often considered gentler on sensitive digestive systems.
Prebiotics and Probiotics
These beneficial ingredients help support a healthy gut microbiome, which plays an important role in digestion and regular bowel movements.
Beta-Palmitate Fat
This fat structure may help support softer stools and improved calcium absorption.
Lactose
Lactose is the primary carbohydrate found in breast milk and many infant formulas. For most babies, lactose is an easily digested source of energy that supports normal digestion.
Best Baby Formulas for Constipation (HolleHiPPos Picks)
Below are gentle, parent-trusted formulas we carry at HolleHiPPos that may help ease constipation and support healthy digestion.
| Formula | Best For | Why It May Help |
|---|---|---|
| HiPP Comfort | Constipation, gas & colic | Extensively hydrolyzed proteins, reduced lactose, beta-palmitate, and prebiotics designed to support easier digestion and softer stools. |
| Holle Goat | Mild constipation & sensitive digestion | Whole goat milk with naturally occurring A2 proteins, lactose as the primary carbohydrate, and no palm oil. |
| HiPP Goat | Sensitive digestion | Goat milk with naturally occurring A2 proteins, added GOS prebiotics, and lactose as the primary carbohydrate. |
| Kabrita Goat | Everyday digestive comfort | Goat milk with naturally occurring A2 proteins, GOS prebiotics, and lactose to support healthy digestion. |
| Jovie Goat | Organic whole goat milk | Whole goat milk with naturally occurring A2 proteins, GOS prebiotics, and lactose as the primary carbohydrate. |
| Holle A2 | Babies who tolerate cow's milk but may benefit from A2 proteins | Organic A2 cow's milk, lactose as the primary carbohydrate, and no palm oil. |
1. HiPP Comfort – Best Overall for Constipation Relief
Best for: Babies experiencing constipation alongside gas, colic, or digestive discomfort who may benefit from a formula designed to support gentle digestion.
HiPP Comfort is one of the most popular formulas for babies with constipation, gas, and colic because it's specially formulated with ingredients that are easier for many babies to digest. While every baby responds differently, its unique combination of hydrolyzed proteins, reduced lactose, and prebiotics makes it a common choice for families looking to support comfortable digestion and softer stools.
Why Parents Choose HiPP Comfort
- Reduced lactose may be easier for some babies to tolerate while still providing an important carbohydrate source.
- Partially hydrolyzed proteins are broken down into smaller pieces, making them easier to digest than intact cow's milk proteins.
- Beta-palmitate fat may help support softer stools and comfortable bowel movements.
- Prebiotics (and probiotics in some German versions) help support a healthy gut microbiome and normal digestive function.
Best Suited For
HiPP Comfort is specially formulated for babies experiencing:
- Constipation and hard stools
- Gas and bloating
- Colic
- Straining during bowel movements
If your baby frequently struggles with constipation alongside gas or colic, HiPP Comfort is often one of the first formulas parents and healthcare professionals consider because it was developed specifically to address these digestive concerns.
2. Holle Goat Milk Formula
Best for: Babies with mild constipation or sensitive digestion who may benefit from a gentle whole goat milk formula.
Holle Goat Milk Formula is a popular choice for parents looking for an organic infant formula that supports gentle digestion. Made with whole goat milk, it naturally contains A2 milk proteins, which form softer curds in the stomach than many traditional cow's milk formulas. While every baby is different, some families find that switching to a goat milk formula helps support more comfortable digestion and softer stools.
Why Parents Choose Holle Goat Milk Formula
- Whole goat milk provides naturally occurring milk fats and a creamy texture that many babies tolerate well.
- Naturally occurring A2 milk proteins form softer curds, which may be easier for some babies to digest.
- Lactose is the primary carbohydrate, similar to breast milk, making it a gentle energy source for most babies.
- No palm oil, which some parents prefer when choosing an infant formula.
- Plant-based DHA supports normal brain and eye development as part of a nutritionally complete formula.
Best Suited For
Holle Goat Milk Formula may be a good option for babies who:
- Experience mild constipation or firmer stools
- Have sensitive digestion without a diagnosed cow's milk protein allergy
- Do well on goat milk-based infant formula
- Need a gentle, organic alternative to traditional cow's milk formulas
Many families choose Holle Goat Milk Formula because its naturally different protein structure and lactose-based formulation may support comfortable digestion and healthy bowel movements. However, every baby responds differently, so improvements in stool consistency and digestive comfort can vary.
Shop Holle Goat Milk Formula →
3. HiPP Goat
Best for: Babies with mild constipation or sensitive digestion whose parents are looking for an organic goat milk formula with added prebiotics.
HiPP Goat Milk Formula is available in both Dutch and German versions, giving parents two trusted organic options made with gentle goat milk. Both formulas naturally contain A2 goat milk proteins and use lactose as the primary carbohydrate, making them a popular choice for babies with sensitive digestion. They also include prebiotics to help support a healthy gut microbiome and comfortable digestion.
Why Parents Choose HiPP Goat Milk Formula
- Naturally occurring A2 goat milk proteins form softer curds, which may be easier for some babies to digest.
- Prebiotics (GOS) help support a healthy gut microbiome and normal digestive function.
- Lactose is the primary carbohydrate, similar to breast milk, making it a gentle source of energy for most babies.
- Certified organic ingredients produced according to HiPP's high-quality standards.
- Available in both HiPP Dutch Goat and HiPP German Goat formulas to suit your family's preferences.
Dutch vs. German HiPP Goat Formula
Both HiPP Dutch Goat and HiPP German Goat are excellent choices for babies with sensitive tummies. They share many of the same digestive-friendly features, including:
- Organic whole goat milk
- Naturally occurring A2 goat milk proteins
- Lactose as the primary carbohydrate
- Added GOS prebiotics to support digestive health
The main differences are their country of manufacture, packaging, and stage naming. Nutritionally, both are designed to support healthy growth and gentle digestion.
Best Suited For
HiPP Goat Milk Formula may be a good option for babies who:
- Experience mild constipation or firmer stools
- Have sensitive digestion without a diagnosed cow's milk protein allergy (CMPA)
- Do well on goat milk-based infant formula
- May benefit from a formula containing prebiotics to support digestive health
Many families choose HiPP Goat Milk Formula because its combination of A2 goat milk proteins, lactose, and prebiotics may support comfortable digestion and healthy bowel movements. As with any infant formula, every baby responds differently, so it's important to monitor your baby's individual needs and consult your pediatrician if digestive concerns persist.
4. Kabrita Goat Milk Formula
Best for: Babies with mild constipation or sensitive digestion who tolerate goat milk well and may benefit from a formula with added prebiotics.
Kabrita Goat Milk Formula is another gentle goat milk option available at HolleHiPPos. Made with naturally occurring A2 goat milk proteins, it's designed to support comfortable digestion and is a popular choice for parents looking for an alternative to traditional cow's milk formulas. Combined with GOS prebiotics, Kabrita may help support healthy digestion and regular bowel movements in some babies.
Why Parents Choose Kabrita Goat Milk Formula
- Naturally occurring A2 goat milk proteins form softer curds, which may be easier for some babies to digest.
- GOS prebiotics help support a healthy gut microbiome and normal digestive function.
- Lactose is the primary carbohydrate, similar to breast milk, making it a gentle energy source for most babies.
- No palm oil, which many parents prefer when choosing an infant formula.
- Mild, creamy taste that many babies enjoy.
Best Suited For
Kabrita Goat Milk Formula may be a good option for babies who:
- Experience mild constipation or firmer stools
- Have sensitive digestion without a diagnosed cow's milk protein allergy (CMPA)
- Do well on goat milk-based infant formula
- May benefit from a formula containing prebiotics to support digestive health
Many families choose Kabrita because its combination of A2 goat milk proteins, lactose, and GOS prebiotics may support comfortable digestion and healthy bowel movements. However, every baby is different, so improvements in stool consistency can vary.
Important: Kabrita Goat Milk Formula is not suitable for babies with a confirmed cow's milk protein allergy (CMPA), as goat milk proteins can cross-react with cow's milk proteins. If your baby has a diagnosed allergy or ongoing digestive concerns, consult your pediatrician before switching formulas.
5. Jovie Goat Milk Formula
Best for: Babies with mild constipation or sensitive digestion who may benefit from a whole goat milk formula with a simple, organic ingredient profile.
Jovie Goat Milk Formula is made with 100% organic whole goat milk, making it a popular choice for parents looking for a minimally processed infant formula. Naturally containing A2 goat milk proteins and lactose as its primary carbohydrate, Jovie is designed to support gentle digestion while providing complete nutrition for growing babies.
Why Parents Choose Jovie Goat Milk Formula
- 100% whole goat milk naturally contains milk fats that many parents prefer in an infant formula.
- Naturally occurring A2 goat milk proteins form softer curds, which may be easier for some babies to digest.
- Lactose is the only carbohydrate, similar to breast milk, making it a gentle source of energy for most babies.
- GOS prebiotics help support a healthy gut microbiome and normal digestive function.
- No palm oil, which many parents prefer when choosing an infant formula.
Best Suited For
Jovie Goat Milk Formula may be a good option for babies who:
- Experience mild constipation or firmer stools
- Have sensitive digestion without a diagnosed cow's milk protein allergy (CMPA)
- Do well on goat milk-based infant formula
- May benefit from a whole goat milk formula with added prebiotics
Many families choose Jovie Goat Milk Formula because its combination of whole goat milk, naturally occurring A2 proteins, lactose, and GOS prebiotics may support comfortable digestion and healthy bowel movements. As with any infant formula, every baby responds differently, so improvements in stool consistency can vary.
Important: Jovie Goat Milk Formula is not suitable for babies with a confirmed cow's milk protein allergy (CMPA), as goat milk proteins can cross-react with cow's milk proteins. If your baby has a diagnosed allergy or ongoing digestive concerns, consult your pediatrician before switching formulas.
| Formula | Best For | Whole Goat Milk | Prebiotics | Palm Oil | Organic |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Holle Goat | Mild constipation | ✅ | ❌ | ❌ | ✅ |
| HiPP Goat | Sensitive digestion | ❌ | ✅ GOS | ❌ | ✅ |
| Kabrita | Everyday digestive support | ❌ | ✅ GOS | ❌ | ✅ |
| Jovie Goat | Whole goat milk | ✅ | ✅ GOS | ❌ | ✅ |
All four formulas contain naturally occurring A2 goat milk proteins and lactose as the primary carbohydrate, making them popular choices for babies with sensitive digestion. The biggest differences are whether they use whole goat milk and whether they include added prebiotics.
6. Holle A2 Cow Milk Formula
Best for: Babies who do well on cow's milk but may benefit from a formula made with A2 milk proteins to support gentle digestion.
Holle A2 Cow Milk Formula is an organic infant formula made exclusively with A2 cow's milk proteins. Unlike conventional cow's milk, which contains a mix of A1 and A2 beta-casein proteins, Holle A2 contains only A2 proteins. Some parents choose A2 formulas because they may be gentler on sensitive digestive systems while still providing the familiarity of a cow's milk-based formula.
Why Parents Choose Holle A2 Cow Milk Formula
- Made with A2 cow's milk proteins, which may be easier for some babies to digest than formulas containing A1 proteins.
- Organic ingredients produced to Holle's high-quality standards.
- Lactose is the primary carbohydrate, similar to breast milk, providing a gentle source of energy for most babies.
- Nutritionally complete to support healthy growth and development.
- No palm oil, which many parents prefer when choosing an infant formula.
Best Suited For
Holle A2 Cow Milk Formula may be a good option for babies who:
- Experience mild constipation or digestive discomfort on regular cow's milk formulas
- Tolerate cow's milk but may benefit from A2 proteins
- Need a gentle, organic cow's milk-based infant formula
- Do not require a hypoallergenic formula
Some families find that switching from a standard cow's milk formula to an A2-only formula helps support more comfortable digestion and softer stools. However, every baby is different, and improvements in digestive comfort can vary.
Important: Holle A2 Cow Milk Formula is not suitable for babies with a confirmed cow's milk protein allergy (CMPA). If your baby has been diagnosed with CMPA or has ongoing digestive concerns, speak with your pediatrician before switching formulas.
Shop Holle A2 Cow Milk Formula
When Should You Consider Switching Formula?
If your baby experiences any of the following symptoms consistently, it may be worth discussing a formula change with your pediatrician:
- Straining during bowel movements
- Hard, dry, or pellet-like stools
- Crying or appearing uncomfortable while passing stool
- Going several days without a bowel movement (depending on your baby's age and feeding pattern)
- Frequent gas or bloating alongside constipation
Before switching formulas, remember that occasional changes in bowel habits can be normal, especially during growth spurts or when introducing new foods. If constipation is persistent or your baby seems uncomfortable, your pediatrician can help determine whether a different formula may be appropriate.
Tip: When changing formulas, introduce the new formula gradually if recommended by your pediatrician, and allow about 1 to 2 weeks for your baby's digestive system to adjust unless advised otherwise.
Quick Formula Finder
Choosing the right formula depends on your baby's individual needs and digestive symptoms. Use the guide below to help narrow down which option may be the best fit.
| If your baby has... | Recommended Formula | Why It May Be a Good Fit |
|---|---|---|
| Constipation with gas and colic | HiPP Comfort | Specially formulated with extensively hydrolyzed proteins, reduced lactose, beta-palmitate, and prebiotics to support easier digestion. |
| Mild constipation | Holle Goat | Whole goat milk with naturally occurring A2 proteins and lactose as the primary carbohydrate may be gentler on sensitive tummies. |
| Sensitive digestion | HiPP Goat | Goat milk with naturally occurring A2 proteins and added GOS prebiotics to help support gut health. |
| Everyday digestive comfort | Kabrita Goat | Goat milk formula with naturally occurring A2 proteins and GOS prebiotics for gentle digestion. |
| Parents looking for an organic whole goat milk formula | Jovie Goat | Made with whole goat milk, naturally occurring A2 proteins, and lactose as the primary carbohydrate. |
| Babies who tolerate cow's milk but may benefit from A2 proteins | Holle A2 | Organic A2 cow's milk formula made without palm oil and designed for gentle digestion. |
Remember: Every baby is different, and there isn't a single formula that's best for every case of constipation. If your baby's constipation is severe, persistent, or accompanied by symptoms such as blood in the stool, poor weight gain, vomiting, or significant discomfort, consult your pediatrician before changing formulas.
Constipation After Starting Solids
Introducing solid foods is an exciting milestone, but it can also bring temporary changes to your baby's digestion. As your baby's diet shifts from breast milk or formula to foods like cereals, fruits, and vegetables, it's common for bowel movements to become firmer or less frequent.
If your baby becomes constipated after starting solids, try these tips:
- Offer fiber-rich foods such as pureed pears, prunes, peaches, or peas (appropriate for your baby's age).
- Encourage fluids by continuing regular breast milk or formula feeds and offering small amounts of water if your pediatrician recommends it.
- Introduce new foods gradually so your baby's digestive system has time to adjust.
- Keep your baby moving with gentle tummy time, bicycle leg exercises, or supervised movement to help stimulate bowel activity.
Remember that formula isn't always the cause of constipation after solids are introduced. In many cases, a few simple dietary adjustments are enough to help get things moving again.
When Should You Call Your Pediatrician?
Occasional constipation is common, but some symptoms require medical attention. Contact your pediatrician if your baby:
- Has constipation that lasts for several days despite home care.
- Has blood in their stool or around the anus.
- Experiences severe pain or persistent crying during bowel movements.
- Has a swollen or hard abdomen.
- Is vomiting or refusing to feed.
- Is not gaining weight as expected.
- Has a fever along with constipation.
Your pediatrician can help determine whether constipation is related to your baby's diet, formula, an underlying medical condition, or another cause, and recommend the most appropriate treatment if needed.
Remember: While gentle formula changes can help some babies with constipation, persistent or severe symptoms should always be evaluated by a healthcare professional to ensure your baby receives the right care.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can baby formula cause constipation?
Some babies may experience constipation when starting a new formula, but formula isn't always the cause. Ingredients, hydration, age, and introducing solid foods can all affect bowel movements.
Is goat milk formula better for constipation?
Some parents find that goat milk formulas are gentler on their baby's digestion because of their naturally occurring A2 proteins and softer curd formation. However, every baby responds differently.
How long does it take for a new formula to work?
Most babies need about 1 to 2 weeks to adjust to a new formula. Unless advised otherwise by your pediatrician, give your baby's digestive system time to adapt before deciding whether the change is helping.
Can I switch formulas immediately?
Always speak with your pediatrician before making a formula change. They can advise whether a gradual transition or an immediate switch is most appropriate for your baby's situation.
When should I worry about constipation?
Contact your pediatrician if constipation is persistent, causes severe discomfort, is accompanied by blood in the stool, vomiting, poor weight gain, or a swollen abdomen.
Final Thoughts from HolleHiPPos
Finding the best baby formula for constipation isn't about choosing a one-size-fits-all solution—it's about understanding your baby's unique digestive needs. While some babies may benefit from a comfort formula with hydrolyzed proteins, others may do well with a gentle goat milk formula or an A2 cow's milk formula.
The most important thing is to choose a formula that supports your baby's growth while helping them feel comfortable and content. If constipation persists or you're unsure which formula is the right fit, don't hesitate to speak with your pediatrician.
At HolleHiPPos, we're committed to helping parents find high-quality European baby formulas that support gentle digestion and healthy development. If you need help comparing formulas or choosing the best option for your little one, we're always here to help.
👉 Explore our curated Constipation Relief Collection to find gentle formulas designed to support sensitive tummies.
