Breastfed Baby Poop Smells Like Vinegar: Causes, Symptoms, And Treatments

Introduction

As a new parent, you may be surprised to find out that your breastfed baby’s poop smells like vinegar. While it may seem concerning, this is actually quite common and can be caused by a variety of factors.

What Causes Breastfed Baby Poop to Smell Like Vinegar?

There are several reasons why breastfed baby poop may take on a vinegar-like smell:

1. Diet

The foods that you eat can affect the smell of your breast milk and, in turn, your baby’s poop. Eating acidic foods like citrus fruits, tomatoes, and vinegar can cause your breast milk to have a sour smell that can be passed on to your baby’s poop.

2. Bacterial Imbalance

An imbalance of bacteria in your baby’s gut can also cause their poop to smell like vinegar. This can happen if your baby’s gut is not properly colonized with healthy bacteria, which can be caused by a variety of factors including antibiotic use, c-section delivery, and formula feeding.

3. Dehydration

If your baby is not getting enough breast milk, they may become dehydrated, which can cause their poop to become more concentrated and smell like vinegar.

What Are the Symptoms of Breastfed Baby Poop Smelling Like Vinegar?

Aside from the obvious smell, there are a few other symptoms that may be present if your breastfed baby’s poop smells like vinegar:

1. Diarrhea

If your baby’s poop is loose and watery, this may be a sign of diarrhea. Diarrhea can be caused by a variety of factors, including a viral or bacterial infection or an intolerance to something in your breast milk.

2. Colic

Colic is a term used to describe excessive crying and fussiness in babies. While the exact cause of colic is unknown, it has been linked to gastrointestinal issues like gas and reflux.

3. Rash

If your baby’s poop is acidic, it can cause diaper rash. This can be painful for your baby and may require treatment with diaper cream.

How Can Breastfed Baby Poop Smelling Like Vinegar Be Treated?

The treatment for breastfed baby poop smelling like vinegar will depend on the underlying cause:

1. Adjust Your Diet

If your baby’s poop is smelling like vinegar due to your diet, you may need to make some adjustments. Avoid acidic foods and try to eat a balanced diet that includes plenty of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains.

2. Probiotics

If your baby’s poop smells like vinegar due to a bacterial imbalance, probiotics may help. Probiotics are beneficial bacteria that can help restore balance to your baby’s gut. You can find probiotics in supplements or in certain foods like yogurt.

3. Increase Breastfeeding

If your baby’s poop smells like vinegar due to dehydration, increasing your breastfeeding sessions may help. Offer your baby the breast more frequently and make sure they are getting enough milk.

Conclusion

In conclusion, breastfed baby poop smelling like vinegar is usually nothing to worry about. It can be caused by a variety of factors, including diet, bacterial imbalance, and dehydration. If you are concerned about your baby’s poop or if they are experiencing other symptoms like diarrhea or a rash, it’s important to talk to your pediatrician.