When it comes to constipation in children, it can be a discomforting and stressful condition for both the child and the parent. Fortunately, there are several natural ways to help alleviate this common issue.
Here, we provide a number of practical strategies that parents can use to help their children find relief from constipation:
Increase Fiber Intake
Fibre is crucial in the diet to help keep the digestive system moving. Fibre-rich foods include fruits (pears, prunes, and apples), vegetables (such as broccoli, peas, and carrots), beans, and whole grains like oats and whole wheat bread. Introducing these foods into your child’s diet can naturally aid bowel movements.
Encourage Plenty of Fluids
Dehydration is a common cause of constipation. Ensuring your child drinks adequate fluids can help soften stool and promote regularity. Water is the best choice, but well-diluted fruit juices (like apple or pear juice) can be beneficial due to their natural sugars, which help to draw fluid into the intestines.
Promote Regular Physical Activity
Physical activity helps increase blood flow and stimulates the natural contraction of intestinal muscles, aiding the movement of stools through the digestive tract. Constipation can be reduced by encouraging your child to stay active through play, sports, or even easy exercises like swimming or walking.
Establish a Routine
Children benefit from having a regular toileting routine. Encourage your child to go to the bathroom at the same times each day, ideally after meals, to take advantage of the natural reflex that pushes food through the digestive system.
Use Probiotics
Probiotics are beneficial bacteria that help maintain digestive health. Foods like yoghurt, kefir, and fermented vegetables contain probiotics and can support a healthy gut environment, aiding digestion and potentially easing constipation in children.
Consider a Warm Bath
A warm bath can assist to relax the muscles that regulate bowel motions. For some children, this can make it easier to pass stools and relieve constipation.
Massage
Gentle abdominal massage can sometimes stimulate the bowels. Using the fingertips to make circular, clockwise motions on the child’s belly may help relieve constipation. Be gentle and ensure your child is comfortable throughout the process.
Monitor Toilet Posture
Proper toilet posture can facilitate easier bowel movements. For children, using a small stool to elevate the feet while sitting on the toilet can help position the rectum in a way that makes passing stool less difficult.
When to Seek Medical Advice
While these natural techniques are beneficial for mild constipation, it’s important to consult a paediatrician if:
- Your child experiences persistent or recurrent constipation.
- There are additional symptoms like abdominal pain, blood in the stool, or unexpected weight loss.
- You have concerns about your child’s diet and bowel habits.
Managing constipation naturally involves a combination of dietary changes, increased fluid intake, and lifestyle adjustments. With patience and persistence, these methods can help alleviate your child’s discomfort and promote a healthier digestive system.
If the problem persists, or if you have any concerns, it’s always best to seek the guidance of a healthcare professional.