Do you find yourself constantly worrying about your child’s bowel movements? Do they struggle with constipation or withhold their poo, causing discomfort and pain? You’re not alone. Poo problems such as constipation and diarrhea are common issues among young children that might also result in them refusing to go to the potty. However, there are ways to help your child overcome these challenges and find relief.
In this blog, we’ll explore how you can recognize constipation and share tips on how to help them with exercise, the right support, and the right foods. So, let’s dive in and get your child back to regular bowel movements and a happier tummy!
Is Your Child Suffering from Constipation?
Every child has their own pattern. Normal pooing varies from 3 times a day to 3 times a week. The most important thing is that your child isn’t suffering.
A constipated child has infrequent bowel movements (less than 3 times per week) and/or hard, dry stools. And there are a number of other signs of constipation:
– They have a tummy ache or an upset tummy
– They experience pain while pooing
– Their poo looks like little “rabbit droppings”
– They have some bleeding during or after pooing
– They suffer from diarrhea. It may seem counterintuitive, but diarrhoea can also be a sign of constipation. In this case, runny, watery stools actually ‘overflow’ their constipated bowel.
If your child fears that pooing will hurt, he or she may try to avoid it. You may notice your child crossing their legs, clenching their buttocks, twisting their body, or making faces when attempting to hold their stool.
Would you like to know more? Read more about constipation in children at the NHS website.
The Culprits: Foods that Cause Constipation in Children
Constipation can be caused by a variety of factors, but diet is one of the most common culprits. Here are some of the foods that may be causing your child’s constipation:
- Processed Foods: Processed foods are often low in fiber and high in sugar and fat, which can contribute to constipation. Avoid foods like chips, candy, and fast food.
- Dairy Products: Dairy products like cheese, milk, and ice cream can be difficult for some children to digest, leading to constipation.
- Low-Fiber Foods: Foods that are low in fiber, like white bread and pasta, can be difficult to digest and contribute to constipation.
The Heroes: Foods that Help Alleviate Constipation in Children
Now that we know which foods to avoid, let’s focus on the foods that can help get your child’s bowels moving again. Here are some of the best foods to help with constipation:
- High Fiber Foods: Foods that are high in fiber, like fruits, vegetables, and whole grains, can help soften stools and promote regular bowel movements. Make sure your child is getting high-fiber foods.
- Water: Dehydration can contribute to constipation, so make sure your child is drinking plenty of water throughout the day.
- Prunes: Prunes are a natural laxative and can be very effective in treating constipation. But before trying to give your child prune juice or whole prunes to eat, it is essential to check with your GP.
- Beans, Nuts, and Seeds: These foods are high in both protein and fiber, making them a great option for preventing constipation in children. Encourage your child to eat a variety of beans, nuts, and seeds, such as lentils, almonds, chia seeds, and flaxseeds.
Other Tips to Help with Poo Problems in Children
In addition to diet, there are a few other things you can do to help your constipated child. Here are some tips:
- Encourage Exercise: Exercise can help get things moving in the digestive system. Encourage your child to be active and get plenty of exercise throughout the day. Go play outside together! Play tag, hide-and-seek, or a ball game.
- Set a Routine: Regularity is key when it comes to bowel movements. Encourage your child to go to the bathroom at the same time each day to help establish a routine. Would you like some further advice on how to establish a potty training routine? Download the Go Potty app.
- Try a Stool Softener or other Laxative method: If your child continues to struggle with constipation, you may want to try a stool softener. Talk to your GP about which one is right for your child.
- Ensure a Correct Toilet Posture: It’s very important for children to sit in the right position in order to be able to relax and poo, be it on a potty or toilet. Ensure:
- Their feet rest firmly on the ground or on a stool (their legs should not be dangling).
- Their legs make at least a 90 degrees angle. And it’s even better when their knees are slightly higher than their bottom. You can put a number of books underneath their feet to increase the angle.
When to Seek Help?
Constipation in children can be frustrating, but it’s important to remember that it’s a common problem that can usually be treated with the right foods and habits
Remember, if your child continues to experience constipation (longer than 2 weeks), it’s important to consult with your GP or a healthcare professional to rule out any underlying medical conditions. For more info see also the Mayo Clinic website.
Do you have any questions about poo problems with your child? You can also contact Go Potty potty training experts. A number of the Go Potty consultants are qualified children’s nurses. They have specialised in wee, poo, and constipation problems. You can find their contact details in the Go Potty app.
