Moms, have you ever experienced constipation? If so, you know how uncomfortable this condition can be. However, when this issue occurs in a toddler, they may struggle to communicate what they’re feeling, and it might take time for us to realize they are having trouble with bowel movements.
Constipation, or difficulty passing stools, is a common issue in children. A child is generally considered constipated if they have fewer than three bowel movements a week.
Watch for Symptoms, Moms
Other symptoms that can indicate constipation in children include a hard abdomen when touched, abdominal swelling, bloating, small tears around the anus from straining, and dry, hard, and large stools.
Although constipation is usually short-term, it can be treated, even with traditional remedies. So, what natural remedies can help alleviate constipation in toddlers?
- Water
To ensure proper digestion, Moms need to make sure the child is drinking enough water. Drinking plenty of water can prevent stools from becoming dry and hard, which can lead to constipation. It also helps soften the stool, making it easier for the child to pass.
- Fruit Juices
Fruit juices are known to help relieve constipation as some contain sorbitol, a natural sugar that acts as a laxative. Moms can give their child apple juice, prune juice, or pear juice to help relieve constipation.
- Lemon Juice
Lemon juice is a traditional remedy for constipation in babies and toddlers. Lemons are rich in vitamin C, which helps draw water into the intestines. Increased water content in the intestines can soften the stool and stimulate bowel movement.
Moms can mix half a lemon’s juice with a glass of warm water and add honey. It’s best to give this to the child in the morning on an empty stomach to stimulate bowel movement and help alleviate constipation.
- Blackberries
Blackberries are known to stimulate peristalsis, the involuntary movement in the digestive tract that helps push food forward, ultimately aiding in the elimination of waste. Moms can give this fruit to the child, diluted with water, to help with constipation.
- Honey
Besides boosting the immune system, honey also helps promote digestive health. Moms can use honey as a natural remedy to relieve constipation in toddlers. You can add 1-2 teaspoons of honey to a glass of milk and give it to your child on an empty stomach.
- High-Fiber Foods
Make sure the child consumes high-fiber foods that support their digestive system. You can offer fiber-rich fruits like apples, pears, and oranges, as well as vegetables such as spinach and broccoli, and legumes.
- Flaxseed
Flaxseeds are rich in fiber, making them excellent for digestion. No wonder flaxseed is believed to help prevent constipation in toddlers. Moms can boil flaxseeds in water for a while, strain, and give the resulting water to the child.
In addition to these traditional remedies, encouraging physical activity will also help with constipation. When toddlers engage in physical activities daily, it stimulates bowel contractions and encourages bowel movement.
It’s important to note that if these remedies do not show results within 1 or 2 days, Moms should consult a pediatrician.
