NDRI.com

Kids and Constipation

Believe it or not, kids do end up with constipation. But why do some children end up with it more than others? And how do you know when one is really constipated?

First off, poop should be something that easily leaves your body. There shouldn't be any straining, pushing or pain. Most children will poop three to four times a day, without any effort. Others will poop less frequently, but find it more difficult to pass the poop. And still others will find it extremely difficult to poop and when they finally do, the pain will be so intense that tears are inevitable. This is when it's time to be concerned.

Constipation occurs when a bowel movement is so hard that it cannot be passed through the rectum. Many parents are under the false impression that if they offer tons of apple juice to the child, the poop will loosen and pass. What actually happens, however, is the apple juice causes the child to have diarrhea. This diarrhea passes around the impacted poop, leaving the poop still in the body. If this poop continues to stay impacted, the child will try harder to push the poop out, causing the rectum to tear and bleeding to occur. In time, the impacted poop could cause serious infections.

So how can parents prevent constipation in their kids? By following tips below:

When a child seems constipated, take them to the doctor for a check up. If it is too impacted, medications are available, as are products such as mineral oil, Metamucil or mild laxatives.
Avoid sugary foods.
Avoid foods high in fat (including fried foods).
Eat plenty of foods high in fiber, such as whole grains, bran, fruits and vegetables.
Drink six to eight glasses of water a day.
Exercise daily. If you cannot exercise, consider a brisk 20-minute walk.
When the urge to poop arrives, do not hold it. Go straight to the bathroom.