13 Oct National Nutrition Week: A baby’s nappy contents is a key sign of nutritional health

National Nutrition Week (9-15 October) reminds us that what we feed our babies shapes not only their growth, but also their gut health and overall wellbeing. One of the simplest, yet overlooked, ways to track a baby’s nutritional health is through something parents encounter every day: the nappy.

Every feed leaves a clue, and nappies can reveal important signs about a baby’s nutrition, hydration, and digestive health. According to Diane Obree, Head of Marketing at Huggies SSA, “One of the best ways to tell if a baby’s health is on the right track is to inspect things like their stool patterns and urine colour.”

Nappies can act as early markers of overall health. Key signs to monitor include:

• Urine: Yellow indicates hydration, while orange, brown, or red could signal dehydration or possible blood. Green may point to a urinary tract infection.
• Stool: Yellow and soft is typical for breastfed babies, while tan or brown is normal for formula-fed babies. Red or white stools may signal allergies, infection, or even liver issues that require urgent attention.

While these indicators should not immediately alarm parents, they do highlight the importance of vigilance. Nutrition remains central to prevention, with the World Health Organisation recommending breastfeeding up to two years, supported by balanced meals and snacks as babies grow. Infants aged 6 – 8 months should receive two to three meals per day, while those aged 9 – 23 months should have three to four meals daily, plus nutritious snacks.

“Nutrition is healthcare when it comes to your little ones,” says Obree. “We talk a lot about gut health in adult circles, but babies need that same attention, especially at such a young age when their systems are so delicate.”

Huggies Project Red supports nutrition week

To mark National Nutrition Week, Huggies is spotlighting Project Red, a public awareness campaign that equips parents with the knowledge to interpret what they see in their baby’s nappy. By connecting feeding, digestion, and baby wellness, Project Red extends Huggies’ role beyond nappies to reinforce the brand as a trusted partner in early childhood health.

“Our goal has always been simple,” says Obree. “We want to empower caregivers to spot early signs so they can act fast. A nappy should never be overlooked. It can be one of your baby’s most important health indicators.”

Hospital Programme Brings Support Directly to Parents
Beyond awareness, Huggies takes action on the ground through the Huggies Hospital Programme, which kicks off this October. This initiative operates in public hospitals across the country, particularly in underserved and rural areas, and provides:

• Sample distribution – Helping new and expecting moms experience Huggies products from day one.
• Education and awareness – Huggies sisters sharing guidance on maternal health, baby care, and hygiene.
• Community upliftment – Creating supportive spaces for moms in hospitals.
• Ward donation – Huggies donates nappies and product boxes to maternity wards, reinforcing its commitment to giving back.

Ebony Clinic Nutrition Week Partnership
On 9 October, Huggies will also support activities at Ebony Clinic in Midrand, bringing together more than 85 pregnant and new mothers for a day dedicated to maternal health, nutrition, hygiene, and early childhood development. The event will include educational talks, product support, and interactive sessions with community partners, further demonstrating Huggies’ commitment to healthy beginnings for children.

During National Nutrition Week, Huggies will showcase Project Red in action in hospitals nationwide. Through this, the brand will demonstrate how nappies connect directly to nutrition and baby health, while empowering mothers with the knowledge, confidence, and resources they need.

For more information on Project Red and tips on interpreting your baby’s nappy, visit Project Red website.