Is your kiddo struggling to go to the bathroom? Don’t worry, you are not alone. Constipation is a common issue among children that can cause discomfort for them, as well as concern for parents. It’s important to understand why constipation happens and how to effectively manage constipation in kids to ensure your child’s comfort and well-being.
Symptoms of Constipation in Kids
Constipation is defined as having infrequent bowel movements or difficulty passing stool. Let’s review some specific symptoms in regards to constipation in kids.
- Infrequent bowel movements. In children, this means fewer than three bowel movements per week.
- Stool consistency. A child struggling with constipation will often experience hard, dry stools. These are difficult or painful to pass.
- Abdominal pain or discomfort. If your child has complaints of frequent stomach pain, then they may be dealing with constipation.
- Stool withholding. Children may avoid going to the bathroom due to discomfort or fear of pain.
Nutrition for Constipation in Kids
A balanced diet is important for your child’s overall health, but there are two key things to include in their diet to help with constipation.
Fiber
Fiber is essential for children’s digestive system, especially if they are deal with constipation. It helps prevent and treat constipation by adding bulk to stool and promoting regular bowel movements. Some examples of high fiber foods include fruits, vegetables, beans, nuts and seeds, and whole grains.
Tips to Include Fiber
- Start with Breakfast. Choose cereals higher in fiber and low in added sugars. Look for options like bran flakes or oatmeal.
- Incorporate fruits and vegetables. Fresh fruits like apples, pears, and berries are naturally high in vitamins and fiber. Serve raw vegetables with hummus or yogurt dips.
- Whole grains are a great source of fiber, so use more of them. Switch to whole wheat bread for sandwiches or toast. Air-popped popcorn is a great whole grain snack.
- Make fiber fun. Make fruits and vegetables visually appealing by using cookie cutters to shape fruits or create colorful salads.
- Introduce slowly. Start by gradually increasing fiber content in their diet to allow their digestive system to adjust.
Adequate Hydration
Dehydration can cause constipation because stool absorbs water in the large intestine, and if the body is dehydrated, it takes extra moisture from stool, making it hard and firm. Make sure your child drinks plenty of water throughout the day. Also, it is recommended to limit sugary drinks as they can contribute to dehydration.
Other ways to Treat Constipation in Kids
Clean out
In serious cases, the first step in treating constipation is to clean out the rectum and intestine. This is a critical step as it is best to begin a constipation regimen with empty bowels, however it is best to use a health care team to guide this process. It generally consists of a series of enemas, laxatives, and stool softeners and is not always fun for the child, but very necessary.
Encourage Physical Activity
Alongside other lifestyle changes, physical activity can be another helpful tool for managing constipation in kids. Regular movement helps stimulate bowel movements. Encourage your child to be active through play, sports, or outdoor activities.
Medicines to Treat Constipation in Kids
Treating constipation in children often begins with trying non-medical interventions such as those listed above. However, in same cases medications may be necessary to help relieve constipation, especially when lifestyle adjustments alone are insufficient. Here are some examples of medications, as always advise a healthcare provider prior to starting your child on these medications.
- Stool softeners such as docusate sodium, which is available in liquid or capsule form.
- Miralax is a type of laxative. Miralax is a tasteless powder that can be mixed with water or juice. It is commonly prescribed for children because it is gentle and effective.
- Mineral Oil. Pediatricians may recommended this for short periods to ease the passage of stools.
Establish Regular Toilet Habits
Consistency is key! Encourage your child to use the toilet at the same time each day, especially after meals, to take advantage of the body’s natural rhythms. Allow them to sit 1 minute per year of life up to 10 minutes, but ensure that they have feet flat on the floor and knees bent.
Create a Positive Toilet Environment
Constipation can be worsened with stress, so ensure you and your child are relaxed when they are going to the bathroom. Purchasing a toilet stool will not only help with keeping their feet flat, but also help them be more comfortable. Train your child to push by ‘finding the right muscles”, so this can be taught by blowing up a ball or playing a kazoo. Additionally, remember to offer a lot of praise whether or not they pass stool!
Getting Additional Help for Constipation in Kids
Constipation in kids is common, and unfortunately it can affect appetite and growth while causing pain and discomfort. If your child is experiencing trouble with constipation, our registered dietitians can help. They will work with your family to find the best treatment plan for your child and set you on the path of wellness. Schedule an appointment today.
Disclosure:
Some of our pages contain affiliate links that Anderson’s Nutrition may receive a commission from, at no extra cost to you. We only promote products that we have used & verified, finding helpful for our clients and friends. As an Amazon Associate, we may earn from qualifying purchases. Anderson’s Nutrition is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon.com.
