Karo syrup for constipation: Is it safe for babies?

Is it safe to give my baby corn (Karo) syrup for constipation?

- Gretchen / Iowa

Mayo Clinic pediatrician Jay Hoecker, M.D., and colleagues answer select questions from readers.

Answer

Giving infants corn (Karo) syrup for constipation isn't recommended.

It is true that corn syrup draws more fluid into the intestine, which makes stool less hard. But in excess, corn syrup can cause diarrhea in infants, resulting in water and electrolyte losses.

In the past, concern has been raised about whether corn syrup is a source of bacterial spores that produce Clostridium botulinum bacteria. These bacteria are typically harmless to older children and adults. But when ingested by an infant, these bacteria make a toxin that can cause infant botulism.

According to a 2006 report from the American Academy of Pediatrics, manufacturers of corn syrups can't guarantee that their products are free of these bacterial spores. However, there have never been any cases of infant botulism directly linked to corn syrup. Still, corn syrup isn't intended or recommended as a treatment for infant constipation.

Treatment of infant constipation varies by age. For infants 2 months or younger, call your baby's doctor for advice on treatment. For infants older than 2 months, give them 2 to 4 ounces of water twice a day in addition to their usual fluid intake. If constipation doesn't improve, give them 2 to 4 ounces of fruit juice twice a day. For infants older than 4 months who are already eating solid foods, give them baby food that's high in fiber — such as peas, beans, apricots, prunes, peaches or pears — twice a day until constipation improves. You may also apply a small amount of water-based lubricant to your baby's anus to ease stool passage.

If constipation persists despite trying these measures, consult your baby's doctor.