Children's bowel habits differ, with some having two to three bowel movements, or BMs, a day, to others having only a few BMs a week. Formula-fed babies have harder BMs that occur less frequently than breastfed babies, whose BMs are looser and more frequent. Oftentimes changing up the diet works to resolve children's constipation issues.
Signs and Symptoms
Complaints of stomach cramps, discomfort or belly pain and very hard, dry BMs are signs of constipation. Less frequent movements, larger than normal sized stools, leaked or soiled BM on underwear, pain while passing a BM or tearing around the rectum are other constipation signs.
Intolerance to Cow's Milk
According to Dr. Giouseppe Lacono, M.D., et al., in the October 15, 1998 edition of the New England Journal of Medicine, chronic constipation may be a sign of intolerance to cow's milk. Chronic diarrhea is the most common symptom of intolerance to cow milk, which can lead to constipation. In a small study of 69 children in Spain, 39 percent restricted milk from their diet and resolved their constipation issues, but relapsed when it was reintroduced; however, 49 percent didn't respond to a milk-free diet. As reported by Cornelius W. Van Niel, MD, in the July 21, 2010 edition of Journal Watch Pediatrics and Adolescent Medicine, the other children slowly resolved their constipation with milk-free diets and didn't relapse when it was reintroduced.
Eating or Drinking Too Much Milk
PDR Health also notes that children experiencing constipation may not actually be allergic to milk itself but may be over-consuming dairy products, such as milk, yogurt and cheese. Consider modifying the diet, cutting down on dairy products to see if this helps reduce constipation and increase water intake--ask a health provider how much is appropriate--to help soften stools.
Other Diet Modifications
At first blush it may seem that a child's constipation is due to an allergic reaction to cow's milk, but it could also be from a lack of fiber. Give babies 4 months and older high fiber baby foods such as cereal, peaches, plums, beans or spinach twice a day. Avoid carrots and bananas, which can actually worsen constipation. Older children should consume at least three daily servings of fruits and vegetables. Serve whole grain breads and pastas, brown rice and cereals and muffins with bran. Daily exercise such as walks or playtime at the playground also regulate BMs.
When Dietary Changes Don't Work
Talk to a doctor about glycerin suppositories or constipation medicine If constipation still persists after dietary modifications. Glycerin suppositories are placed in a child's rectum to help aid in a BM. Laxative medicine is another option your doctor may recommend. Laxatives help empty the bowel and soften the stool, making it easier for a bowel movement to pass. However, according to PDR Health, laxatives and suppositories should only be given to children if recommended by a physician.
