Constipation is a fairly common occurrence among children that can be caused by variety of conditions including eating some types of foods. The condition is characterized by a decrease in bowel movements, hard dry stools and painful bowel movements, reports the Children's Hospital of Wisconsin. A food journal kept by parents can help them determine which foods cause their child's constipation.
Milk
Milk and foods that are made with milk often result in constipation in children, reports AskDrSears.com. This is especially evident in children making the transition from formula or breast milk to regular cow's milk. Other dairy foods to avoid include, cheese and ice cream. Parents who reduce the amount of milk foods consumed by their child without completely eliminating them will likely see constipation ease up and a child's bowel movements return to normal.
Fried Foods
Fried foods are typically low in fiber and eating too much of them can lead to constipation in a child, according to FamilyDoctor.org. Even a child who typically eats a healthy diet can become constipated after a couple days of not-so-healthy eating. In the same way, eating new foods can result in a child becoming constipated. When trying a new food, a child should consume a small portion so that parents can watch for symptoms. Foods to avoid include french fries and chicken nuggets which can be replaced with grilled meats and steamed or roasted potatoes.
Processed Snacks
Many parents rely on pre packaged snack foods because they are convenient and portable. These items, however, are usually high in fat and low in fiber, making them foods that can lead to constipation, according to the National Digestive Diseases Information Clearinghouse. Whole grain crackers, fruits and vegetables are easy to carry and have enough fiber in them to promote healthy digestion and bowel movements in children. Avoiding chips, snack cakes and cookies is just as important to boosting fiber intake.
Soda
Soda contains caffeine and fills up a child's stomach, leaving little room for the fiber-filled foods he needs to relieve and prevent constipation. According to MayoClinic.com, adequate water intake is important to regular bowel movements. This means that a child who drinks soda over water is at risk of developing constipation. Water helps a child's digestion occur regularly and the sugar and caffeine in soda prevents this from happening.
