Mummy and daddy, have you ever heard your child complain about stomach pain but struggle to have a bowel movement? If so, it's likely they are experiencing constipation - a common problem among children that can be uncomfortable and frustrating for both the child and the parents.
Symptoms of Constipation in Children
Infrequent bowel movement is the most common symptom of constipation in children. If your child has fewer than three bowel movements per week and has hard stools, it's a sign of constipation. Your child may also experience abdominal pain, bloating, and gas. Sometimes, children with constipation may avoid using the bathroom because it hurts, which can lead to stool withholding and further complications.
Treatments for Constipation in Children
Increase Fiber Intake: One of the main causes of constipation in children is a lack of fiber in their diet. You can increase your child's fiber intake by incorporating more fruits, vegetables, and whole grains into their meals.
Encourage Fluid Intake: Dehydration can also cause constipation in children. Ensure that your child drinks plenty of fluids, particularly water, to keep their stool soft and easy to pass.
Regular Exercise: Regular physical activity can help regulate bowel movements and reduce constipation. Encourage your child to engage in activities such as running, jumping, and playing outdoors.
Supplementary Intake: US Clinicals® StrongBiotics™ Kids is a tasty quick-melt synbiotics powder that is enriched with Probiotics and Prebiotics to help strengthen your child’s digestive system and immunity.
Bowel Retraining: If your child has been withholding their stool, bowel retraining may be necessary. This process involves retraining the child's body to use the bathroom regularly by setting a regular time for bathroom breaks and rewarding them for successful bowel movements.
Constipation in children can be effectively managed with proper treatment and lifestyle changes. Incorporating more fiber into their diet, encouraging fluid intake, regular exercise, supplementary intake and bowel retraining are all effective ways to relieve constipation. However, it is important to consult with your child's healthcare provider before starting any treatment to ensure the best possible outcome.