Constipation in children

Constipation generally means trouble having a bowel movement; decreased frequency in the opening of the intestines or the passage of hard and dry stools. Constipation is a common childhood problem.

Signs that a child may have constipation include:

  • pain and straining when going to the bathroom. A hard stool can tear the lining of the anus and cause more pain and bleeding.

  • diarrhea or dirt. When the intestine is blocked, as in constipation, the body tries to evacuate the intestine by turning liquid and bypassing the blocked area. The child may have marks on the underwear or get dirty when exercising. Constipation can also cause a lack of sensation in the anal muscle itself so that the feeling of needing to go to the bathroom is lost.
  • stomach or abdominal aches and pains.
  • other problems such as headaches, skin problems, poor concentration, muscle aches, bad breath, and tiredness. All of these are associated with the reabsorption of toxins from the intestine and their permanence in the general circulation.

What are the causes of constipation?

The most common cause of constipation is a diet rich in processed foods and low in fiber. However, these are not the only causes. Other causes include the following.

  • Not drinking enough fluids

  • Food allergies or intolerances. Allergies are often associated with cereals and dairy products.
  • Eating too many wheat-based products, such as bread and pasta.
  • An imbalance in gastrointestinal bacteria. A recent course of antibiotics or a diet that contains a lot of processed foods and sugars can cause an imbalance of the intestinal flora.
  • Children who are overly involved in what they are doing sometimes ignore the need to go to the bathroom, allowing the movement to dry out and be difficult to pass.
  • Iron sulfate is added to some foods like rice cereals, formulas, and drinks like Milo. In children sensitive to this, it can cause constipation.
  • Stress and anxiety. Like adults, the digestive tract of children contracts during stress. This can cause a bowel movement to pass too fast (causing diarrhea) or too slow, causing too much fluid to be absorbed, resulting in constipation.
  • Insufficient exercise. Exercise is needed to activate the muscles of the digestive tract and move waste material through the intestines.

What can be done about constipation?

You need to treat the existing problem, that is, cleanse the intestine of hard stools, and then work to prevent the situation from happening again. What you can do:

  • Massage to stimulate movement through the large intestine. Have the child lie on his back and raise his knees. With warm hands, apply gentle pressure. Start from the lower right part of the abdomen, work your way up to the rib cage, then work your way down the stomach and down the left side. This is roughly the direction of the intestine and is helpful in stimulating the muscles to move hard stools.

  • Use juices to help the intestines. Juices can include plum, apple, and lemon. Spinach, watercress, and dandelion leaves can be added to softer juices like carrots, cucumbers, beets, and celery. These can be used in small amounts or diluted.
  • Increase the consumption of foods rich in fiber. These include vegetables, fruits, nuts and seeds and at the same time reduce the intake of sweets, chocolate, cakes, bread and white rice. However, don’t overdo it, as this can cause constipation.
  • Eat meals at a regular time so that the intestine can get into the habit of moving at certain times.
  • Increase the amount of water your child drinks. Children need to drink 6 to 8 glasses a day. Using milk, spirits, and soda can cause more problems, so use filtered water and fresh natural juices as much as possible.
  • Encourage lots of physical activity.
  • Increase the amount of beneficial bacteria in the gut by using probiotics.
  • Remind children to go to the bathroom.
  • Change your child’s position when you go to the bathroom. Place a small stool in front of the toilet so they can have their feet on it and this will raise their knees and change the angle of their hips. This will put the child in a position that requires less pushing. Squatting is the ideal position for all human beings when defecating.
  • Eat plenty of magnesium-rich foods. Magnesium is important for muscle contraction, and a magnesium deficiency can cause constipation. Foods high in magnesium include nuts, whole grains, and beans.
  • Add some psyllium seeds to your diet. For children prone to constipation, a daily supply of psyllium seeds can help. This is a fiber that helps regulate the activity of the intestine. When mixed with water or diluted juices, they can create larger and softer stools. To work effectively, the seeds must absorb water, so the child must drink plenty of fluids. The dose for children 3 years and older is 1 teaspoon twice a day added to the diluted juice.
  • Talk to your child about any problems or stresses he may have. Expressing concerns and receiving reassurance can greatly reduce the stress that can cause or contribute to constipation.

You should see a healthcare professional if constipation is difficult to relieve, is associated with a lot of pain or blood, or if the child is doing all the right things and the problem persists. Your healthcare professional will consider the possibility of allergic problems and should explore this further.

References

Brewin, L. 2002, Natural health for children. ABC books.

Hoffmann, D. 2000, The new holistic herbarium. Element Pub.

Romm, A. 2000, Naturally healthy babies and children. Storey’s books.

Smith, L., Walker, L. and Brown, E. 2002, Nature’s pharmacy for children. Three Rivers Press

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