Contact Us For Help
+91-9373 813 040
In the modern world, parents naturally want their child to be strong and healthy. Every child should have a strong line of defense, especially these days when germs and viruses are so common. Fortunately, there are many ways to boost children's immunity naturally and...
A recent ICMR study has shed light on a growing public health concern in India—20% of Indian households now have all adult members classified as overweight, while 10% have all adults considered obese. This trend is most prevalent in urban regions and southern states...
Before diving into remedies, it’s important to understand what constipation is and its common causes in children. Constipation typically involves infrequent bowel movements, hard or dry stools, and difficulty or pain when passing stools. Causes can include:
Diet: Low fiber intake and insufficient fluid consumption are major contributors.
Physical Activity: Lack of exercise can slow down the digestive system.
Routine Changes: Changes in daily routine, such as starting school, can affect bowel habits.
Holding Stool: Some children might avoid going to the toilet due to fear or discomfort, leading to constipation.
Here are some tips which help alleviate constipation in children:
1. Increase Fiber Intake
Fiber helps add bulk to stools and promotes regular bowel movements. Incorporate high-fiber foods into your child’s diet, such as:
Fruits: Apples, pears, prunes, and berries.
Vegetables: Carrots, peas, broccoli, and spinach.
Whole Grains: Whole wheat bread, oatmeal, and brown rice.
Legumes: Beans, lentils, and chickpeas.
2. Encourage Hydration
Adequate fluid intake is essential for preventing constipation. Water is the best choice, but other fluids like milk and natural fruit juices can also be beneficial. Prune juice, in particular, is known for its natural laxative effect.
3. Promote Regular Physical Activity
Exercise helps stimulate digestion. Encourage your child to engage in regular physical activities such as:
Playing outside
Riding a bike
Swimming
Family walks
4. Establish a Routine
Having a regular toileting schedule can help. Encourage your child to sit on the toilet for a few minutes after meals, which is when the body is most likely to have a bowel movement.
5. Use a Footstool
Sometimes, positioning can make a significant difference. Using a small footstool to elevate your child’s feet while they sit on the toilet can help align the rectum better, making it easier to pass stools.
6. Massage
A gentle abdominal massage can stimulate bowel movements. Use gentle, clockwise strokes on your child’s tummy to help relieve constipation.
7. Monitor Dairy Intake
For some children, excessive dairy consumption can contribute to constipation. Try reducing the amount of cheese, milk, and other dairy products to see if it helps.
While home remedies can be very effective, there are times when you should seek medical advice. Contact your healthcare provider if your child:
Has constipation for more than two weeks.
Experiences severe abdominal pain.
Has blood in their stools.
Experiences weight loss without explanation.
Shows signs of fear or avoidance of using the toilet.
Constipation in children can be distressing, but with the right suggestions and preventive measures, you can help your child achieve regular and comfortable bowel movements. By ensuring a balanced diet, promoting hydration and physical activity, and establishing good bathroom habits, you can alleviate constipation and support your child’s overall digestive health. Always remember to consult with a healthcare professional if you have any concerns or if the condition persists.
