9 Allies Against Constipation In Children – Being Parents

Childhood constipation is a very common problem that affects many children. It is characterized by a decrease in the frequency of bowel movements. In addition, it involves difficulties and pain at the time of the broadcast. In a child, we talk about constipation if he defecates less than twice a week. In this article, we will introduce you to nine allies against constipation in children.

What are the causes of constipation in children?

The origins of childhood constipation are often related to lifestyle and diet. The most frequent are:

Lack of dietary fiber or fluids. Excessive consumption of dairy products, meat, or foods high in fat or sugary foods can also cause it.
It can be psychological in nature. Fear of bowel movements, for example, is very common in preschoolers.

Childhood constipation is a vicious cycle. Difficulty and pain when defecating can cause the child to hold a stool.
Stress and change can cause a period of constipation in children.
Inheritance can play a crucial role. Indeed, if parents have difficulty defecating, their children may have the same problem.
Ingestion of certain medications, such as anticonvulsants or antacids, can cause constipation.

What are the main symptoms of constipation in children?

We can detect this pathology in children by the following signs:

The child goes to the toilet less than twice a week.
Intestinal transit is painful and difficult.
His stools are dry, hard and small. Or, they are very bulky.

The child complains of stomach pain and gas.
In some cases, the child loses his appetite and suffers from nausea or diarrhea.
Stomach pain and swelling.

Childhood constipation also causes pain when defecating.

9 allies against constipation in children

You now know the symptoms and causes of constipation in children. So now is a great time to find out what steps you can take to tackle your child’s constipation. Below, we present 9 great allies against constipation in children.

1. Increase the consumption of dietary fiber

Foods high in fiber can help prevent constipation in children. Indeed, the a fiber can not be digested. It therefore helps to cleanse the intestines.

This trace element is not necessarily unpleasant for children. You can, for example, give him apples, pears, beans and oats. Or, oranges, ripe bananas, whole bread and popcorn. You can also add flaxseed flour to homemade smoothies. Thus, you will be able to introduce fiber into the diet of small children.

2. Increase fluid intake

Drinking enough water and other fluids helps stool move more easily through the intestines. The amount of fluids children need varies depending on their weight and age. By school age, most of them need at least 4 cups of water a day.

3. Limit the consumption of certain foods

In these cases, you should reduce the consumption of rich and sugary foods. Animal protein should also be eliminated. This will help prevent the constipation from recurring once it is gone.

4. Stool softener

In case of childhood constipation, it is recommended to use a fabric softener to cleanse the intestines. These are safe for children. However, they can only be used under the supervision of the pediatrician. In some cases, small children may need fabric softener for a few weeks.

5. Fruit consumption

Certain fruits, such as strawberries or pineapple, are perfect allies against constipation in children. First, i ls contain many vitamins. In addition, they increase the responses of the immune system. And, at the same time, they eliminate bad bacteria from the intestines. In addition, their high water content helps balance the intestinal flora. They therefore help to fight against constipation and diarrhea.

6. Probiotic foods

Fermented foods are foods containing additional living microorganisms. The latter remain active in the intestine in sufficient quantity to modify the intestinal microbiota, both by implantation and by colonization.

They can have beneficial effects when ingested in large quantities. Foods that contain probiotics, such as yogurt, also promote good digestive health.

7. Regular meal times

Since eating is a natural bowel stimulant, regular meals can help children develop regular bowel habits. If necessary, serve breakfast a little earlier to allow your child to go to the bathroom quietly before going to school.

Fruits and fiber are great allies against constipation in children.

8. Promote physical activity

Physical activity helps stimulate normal bowel function. Sport activates the intestines. You should therefore encourage the little ones to exercise.

9. Create a toilet routine

Regularly set aside time after meals for your child to go to the bathroom. If necessary, put a stool there so that the child is comfortable on the bidet. Also, try to give him enough time so that he doesn’t feel rushed.

If your child has any of the symptoms listed in this article, we recommend that you use the tips above. They are the perfect allies against constipation in children. If you notice that the situation does not improve, you will need to see a doctor as soon as possible.