If your toddler is having bowel movements fewer than three times a week, seems to strain when going to the bathroom or passes hard stools, he or she may be constipated. Diet, illness and emotional stress can cause constipation, which can often be remedied at home. Although in many cases natural remedies can help relieve constipation in your toddler, consult your pediatrician if your child's constipation persists, as this may be a symptom of a more serious medical problem.
Massage Therapy
A yoga position, called Apanasana (more commonly known as knees to the chest pose), helps eliminate waste from the system. Lay your toddler on his back. Hold his lower legs straight and gently press his knees toward his chest. Repeat five times. According to "The Encyclopedia of Children's Health," this \exercise relieves gas and nourishes the abdominal organs to relieve constipation. The posture uses the thighs to massage the abdominal area and invigorates energy into the kidneys.
Push Fluids
The kidneys are responsible for ridding the body of toxins, and water helps dilute the concentration of toxins in the blood, flushing out the system. Increasing your toddler's fluid intake can resolve constipation. According to Dr. Stuart H. Ditchek and Dr. Russell H. Greenfield, the authors of "Healthy Child, Whole Child," make sure your toddler drinks one cup of water for every 10 pounds of weight on a regular basis. For example, an 18-month old that weighs 28 pounds should consume almost three cups of water a day.
Cow's Milk
According to the authors of "Healthy Child, Whole Child," toddlers who consume more than two cups of cow's milk daily are more likely to be constipated. Assess the amount of cow's milk your toddler drinks. Consider eliminating or reducing it for a trial period to see if constipation persists, and talk with your toddler's pediatrician about other milk options, such as calcium-fortified soy milk.
Increase Fiber Intake
The inclusion of fiber-rich foods into your toddler's diet aids in digestion health as well. Fruits, vegetables, whole-grain breads, bran flakes, beans, and brown rice will increase their fiber intake. Rich in pectin, blueberries, a favorite among many toddlers, help regulate the digestive system and alleviate constipation.
Boost Activity
Physical activity is vital to regulate your toddler's digestive system. Make sure your toddler stays active every day. Walking, playing outdoors or any activity that involves movement helps blood flow to the digestive system, thereby reducing the chances of constipation.
Toilet Training
Toilet training can emotionally affect your child and cause constipation. Assess your approach to toilet training by looking at your behavior. Make sure your toddler's learning experience is stress-free and gentle -- sometimes bowel suppression is a control mechanism caused by anxiety or a sign of stress.
Natural Laxatives
Flax is a high-fiber natural laxative, and ground flaxseed meal is something you can easily sprinkle over your toddler's food when he is constipated. Use it occasionally to prevent constipation, according to Dr. Ditchek, author of "Healthy Child, Whole Child." Avoid whole, unground flaxseeds as it worsens constipation. Toddlers two years and older can have one teaspoon per day.
References
- "Healthy Child, Whole Child"; Stuart H. Ditchek, M.D. & Russell H. Greenfield, M.D.; 2009
- BabyCenter: Constipation
- The Encyclopedia of Children's Health: Constipation
