Toddler Constipation
You probably already know that there are certain foods that do tend to cause constipation. Bananas, rice, refined and processed foods, white bread products, meats, dairy, ice cream, and cheese are some of the worse culprits. Snacks and chips also contribute to the problem, so as a Mom, you really need to take note of what your child is eating. Try some of the "good" foods that help in getting the bowels moving. Those would be foods like other fresh fruits and vegetables. Some of the best to choose are apples, pears, peas, brocolli, and beans. Also, nuts, seeds and whole grain foods are beneficial because of the fiber. Our intestines really need a good dose of fiber each day to function properly. It's a lot easier to eliminate the problem of constipation in toddlers if you eliminate the causes, of course. One of the other major causes of toddler constipation is not enough water. I know it can be difficult to get your child to drink "plain" water, but fluids are important to prevent dehydration in the bowel. If there isn't enough fluid, the waste gets dryer and is that much more difficult to pass. That's no fun for you or your toddler. Try mixing a little fresh squeezed orange juice with the water to help make it a bit more tasty and also aid in loosing the bowels. If you suspect your child is suffering from constipation, some of the most common symptoms are...
Once a child starts experiencing pain when having a bowel movement, quite often they do whatever they can to avoid repeating the experience by "holding it." You need to try to reverse this habit of toddler constipation by insisting the child sit on the toilet for about 10 minutes or so after each meal. Be sure that their feet are positioned flat on the floor or a stool as needed to give the best possible posture for ease in eliminating. You can make this a less stressful time than it might otherwise become by making it a very special story time. Put the dishes on hold and allow the child to choose their favorite book (even if you have to read it 3 times a day for the next several weeks!). :-) Reading a favorite story will help the child to relax his bowel muscles and allow for a better chance of ease in bowel movement. A warm bath and a gentle tummy massage can also be very helpful in relieving the discomfort that goes along with toddler constipation. Natural Toddler Constipation RemediesPlease do avoid using suppositories and enemas on toddlers if at all possible. In some cases they may give temporary relief, but they really aren't a very good option and won't "fix" the internal cause of the constipation. A natural alternative for toddler constipation is always better, in my opinion. Here's a list of some of the best choices available.
Remember this - Although we all basically function the same way, our bodies are still uniquely different. What works for my child may not work for your child. You really need to try constipation remedies one at a time until you find what works best for you and your family. Have A Constipation Question or Comment?
If you have any questions about constipation feel free to ask them here. Questions and Comments by Other VisitorsClick the links below to see the questions and contributions from other visitors to this page.
Constipation In Toddlers
With Constipation in toddlers, how do you get the child to tell you he has to go?
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Toddler constipation can be tough to deal with. No one likes to see their little one in pain. There are some simple steps to try that will give you and your constipated toddler much needed relief.
